Senior Data Engineer

Optima Partners; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A data and business consultancy in Edinburgh is seeking a Senior Data Engineer to design and optimize data pipelines and architectures. You will work in cross-functional teams to implement advanced data solutions, driving technical excellence and mentoring junior engineers. Ideal candidates will have over 5 years of experience in data engineering and proficiency in relevant programming languages. This role offers a dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, or Scala.
• Hands-on experience with big data technologies such as Databricks and Apache Spark.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Expertise in relational databases like Postgres or SQL Server.
• Experience with data warehousing tools such as Snowflake or Redshift.
• 5+ years of experience in data engineering.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement scalable data pipelines.
• Optimize data architectures including data lakes and warehouses.
• Maintain reliable ETL/ELT workflows.
• Collaborate with data scientists and client stakeholders.
• Monitor and enhance performance of data systems.
• Mentor junior engineers and lead initiatives.

Skills

Proficiency in Python, Java, or Scala

Experience with Databricks or Apache Spark

Familiarity with AWS, Azure, or GCP

Expertise in relational databases

Knowledge of Airflow or Talend

Experience with data warehousing tools

Familiarity with Git and Docker

5+ years in data engineering

Job description

Senior Data Engineer

We are an advanced data and business consultancy headquartered in Edinburgh, UK. We are a practitioner‑led organisation that collaborates with top consumer brands to drive transformation and foster customer‑centricity through our expertise in customer strategy, innovative design, and advanced data science and engineering.

We work with leading consumer brands to tackle and overcome complex business and customer problems to drive transformation and champion customer‑centric agendas. We are proud to include some of the leading UK and global brands among our current clients such as Lloyds Banking Group, NatWest Group, Bank of Ireland, Nationwide, Aviva, Biogen, Eon Next, OVO, Virgin Media O2, BT, HMD Global, Centrica, and GSK. We are obsessive about delivering value for our clients and work in a collaborative, engaged, and creative way with our colleagues and clients. We strive to support the transition of knowledge and capability into strategic teams.

The opportunity

We have an exciting new opportunity for a Senior Data Engineer at Optima Partners. In this role, you will be instrumental in designing, building, and optimising scalable data pipelines, architectures, and workflows for our diverse client base. You’ll work within dynamic, multi‑disciplinary teams to implement advanced data solutions while championing best practices and innovative trends in data engineering. This is a valuable opportunity for an experienced data professional to lead projects and drive technical excellence across a variety of commercial sectors.

At Optima, you’ll collaborate with experts across fields, gaining exposure to varied business challenges in an inclusive environment that fosters continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and clear career development.

What you will be doing

• Data Pipeline Development: Design and implement robust, scalable, and efficient data pipelines to collect, transform, and integrate data from various sources.
• Data Architecture: Develop and optimise data architectures, including data warehouses, data lakes, and other storage solutions.
• ETL/ELT Processes: Create and maintain reliable ETL/ELT workflows to ensure data quality and accessibility.
• Collaborate: Partner with data scientists, analysts, and client stakeholders to understand requirements and deliver impactful solutions.
• Performance Optimisation: Monitor and enhance the performance of data systems to ensure minimal downtime and rapid query responses.
• Automation and Tools: Identify automation opportunities and recommend tools to improve data engineering workflows.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed technical documentation for all solutions and processes.
• Leadership: Mentor junior engineers and lead technical initiatives within cross‑functional teams. Skills and Experience

What skills we would like you to have

• Programming: Proficiency in Python, Java, Scala, or similar languages for data processing.
• Big Data Technologies: Hands‑on experience with tools such as Databricks, Apache Spark, and Hadoop.
• Cloud Platforms: Familiarity with AWS, Azure, GCP, or other cloud ecosystems for data engineering tasks.
• Database Management: Expertise in relational databases (e.g. Postgres, SQL Server).
• Data Integration Tools: Knowledge of platforms like Airflow, Apache NiFi, or Talend. • Data Storage and Modelling: Experience with data warehousing tools (e.g. Snowflake, Redshift, BigQuery) and schema design.
• Version Control and CI/CD: Familiarity with Git, Docker, and CI/CD pipelines for deployment.
• Experience: 5+ years in data engineering or a related role, with a proven track record of delivering advanced data solutions in consulting or client‑facing environments.
• Methodologies: Experience with Agile or Scrum practices is beneficial. Personal Qualities
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication abilities to explain complex technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders.
• A collaborative, adaptable, and team‑oriented mindset.