> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1871243-principal-data-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1871243-principal-data-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Data Engineer - **Company:** Leonardo - **Location:** Stoke Gifford, UK (Remote available) - **Salary:** £53,269.0 - £68,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Big Data, Cloud Computing, Computer Programming, Databases, Continuous Integration, Data Architecture, Information Engineering, Extract Transform Load (ETL), Data Security, Data Systems, DevOps, Apache Hadoop, Python (Programming Language), Machine Learning, NoSQL, Ansible, Standard Sql, SQL Databases, Workflow Management Systems, Apache Spark, Kubernetes, Apache Nifi, Data Management, Terraform, Data Pipelines - **Published:** August 1, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.careerboard.com/pt/en/find-jobs-in-United-Kingdom/-C19BC2306512404C90/ ## About the Role * Demonstrated leadership in data engineering, with experience managing and mentoring others. * Ability to take ownership of engineering delivery and drive team performance. * Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills. * A proactive mindset with a commitment to continuous learning and capability development. * Proven ability to work across disciplines and collaborate effectively in multi-functional teams. * A strategic approach to problem-solving and technical decision-making. Core Areas (must have): * Strong Python and SQL skills * Experience with ETL flows, data pipelines, and orchestration tools * Understanding of database architecture (SQL and NoSQL) * Experience with cloud technologies * Experience with cloud platforms * Experience with CI/CD practices * Experience with big data tools eg Spark, Hadoop, NiFi * Experience managing direct reports, providing regular guidance and performance feedback * Ability to create delivery plans with estimated timelines for personal and team workloads * Experience supporting ML model deployment and DevOps collaboration Desirable: * Degree in STEM, Data, AI, or Programming-related field * Awareness of data security best practices * Experience with designing data architecture * Experience with scaling infrastructure and code, (eg Kubernetes) * Exposure to Ansible and Terraform * Understanding of ML algorithms and deployment This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn. ## Description * Provide technical leadership and oversight for data engineering delivery within your team * Lead the design, implementation and maintenance of end-to-end data solutions: acquisition, integration, storage, processing, and analysis * Implement scalable data solutions using big data architectures and workflow management systems * Guide the development of tools for data-driven insights and task automation * Continuously test and monitor systems to improve performance and reliability * Research and adopt emerging technologies * Work with cloud platforms and diverse operating systems * Support development and deployment of machine learning models * Collaborate with DevOps Engineers, Data Scientists, Analysts and Cyber Consultants * Mentor and coach junior data engineers to build team capability, while managing project tasks across your own and their workloads. * Support technology assessments, feasibility studies, and roadmap development * Engage with stakeholders and customers, presenting and defending technical solutions * Manage a small team of direct reports, providing guidance, mentorship and support for their career development * Support the effective operation of the wider team through utilisation tracking, chairing team meetings and resource management ## Related Videos - [Leveraging Real time data in FSIs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/806-leveraging-real-time-data-in-fsis) - [From DevOps to Scaled DevOps: How We’re Rebuilding Continuous Delivery as a Platform](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100018-from-devops-to-scaled-devops-how-we-re-rebuilding-continuous-delivery-as-a-platform) - [Dev & Test in the Cloud? Deploy your cloud environments with Ansible & Terraform](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1607-dev-test-in-the-cloud-deploy-your-cloud-environments-with-ansible-terraform) - [From Messy Queries to Scalable Systems - How Data Engineering actually works](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100203-from-messy-queries-to-scalable-systems-how-data-engineering-actually-works) - [#90DaysOfDevOps - The DevOps Learning Journey](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/548-90daysofdevops-the-devops-learning-journey) - [Tomorrow's cloud data platforms - fully managed database-as-a-service (DBaaS)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/254-tomorrow-s-cloud-data-platforms-fully-managed-database-as-a-service-dbaas) ## Related Articles - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk) - [How to Become an AI Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/331-how-to-become-an-ai-engineer) - [Coffee with Developers - Maria Apazoglou - Making AI understandable for all in production](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/475-coffee-with-developers-maria-apazoglou-making-ai-understandable-for-all-in-production) - [Fullstack Developer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/251-fullstack-developer-salary-uk) - [Software Engineer Salary London](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/252-software-engineer-salary-london) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs)