Technical Databricks Champion

Simpson Associates; York and North Yorkshire, Sheffield; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading data transformation company in the UK is seeking a Technical Champion to lead the development of innovative data and analytics solutions, particularly using Databricks. This role demands a hands-on leader capable of designing complex architectures and guiding technical teams while acting as a trusted advisor to clients. Candidates should have deep expertise in Databricks, a strong background in solution architecture, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. This position offers opportunities for professional growth and impact in transformative data initiatives.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in solution architecture for enterprise-scale data and analytics engagements.
• Strong knowledge of data engineering, API design, and integration.
• Excellent communication skills to articulate complex technical concepts clearly.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver complex data and analytics platforms.
• Define and enforce coding standards, CI/CD, and DevOps practices.
• Guide delivery teams and provide hands-on support.

Skills

Deep Expertise in Databricks

Solution architecture for enterprise-scale

Data engineering and integration patterns

DevOps and automation

Excellent communication

Collaborative mindset

Tools

Databricks

Microsoft Fabric

Python

SQL

Spark

Job description

Simpson Associates transforms raw data into actionable insights that drive positive change.

Our Microsoft data expertise, our specialist sector knowledge, plus our innovative and trusted advice and guidance are just some of the reasons clients choose to work with us.

Our mission is to help purpose‑led organisations from within the public and private sectors to harness data as a lever for change and enable them to realise business value more quickly. We provide the full range of services to support organisations on their data transformation journey. From advisory support and data strategy, to developing Data & AI solutions, right through to providing a range of managed services.

We are a Microsoft Solutions Partner, holding Specialisations in AI Platform on Microsoft Azure, Build AI Apps on Microsoft Azure, Analytics on Microsoft Azure, Data Warehouse Migration to Microsoft Azure and Migrate Enterprise Applications to Microsoft Azure, as well as holding Solutions Partner designations in Data & AI (Azure); Digital & App Innovation (Azure); Infrastructure (Azure) and Security.

But it's not just about the badges. We are proud to be recognised as the winner of the 2024 Microsoft Community Response Partner of the Year award, reflecting our dedication to using technology for positive change. We are also a Databricks partner, and an IBM Gold Partner, specialising in Cognos Analytics and Planning Analytics.

With offices in York and Sheffield, and a team based throughout the UK – we champion creativity, innovation and collaboration in the workplace.

The Role

We’re looking for a Technical Champion to lead the way in shaping cutting‑edge data and analytics solutions, with a special focus on Databricks. As a technical champion, you’ll drive best practices, frameworks, and accelerators across delivery teams, ensuring consistency and excellence in every engagement. This is a hands‑on leadership role where you’ll combine strategic technical oversight with deep technical delivery. You’ll architect enterprise‑scale solutions, mentor technical teams, and act as a trusted advisor to clients on their data transformation journeys.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Solution Architecture: Design and deliver complex data and analytics platforms, integrating multiple technologies with Databricks at the core.
• Champion Engineering Excellence: Define and enforce coding standards, CI/CD, DevOps practices, and reusable patterns.
• Experience designing data Lakehouse architectures with Databricks at the core with security, privacy, and governance at its core.
• Hands‑on experience of Databricks including Delta Lake and Unity Catalog.
• Technical Mentoring: Guide delivery teams, provide hands‑on support for complex challenges, and foster professional growth.
• Client Advisory: Act as a strategic technical advisor, delivering workshops and supporting pre‑sales with technical credibility.

Skills and Attributes Required

• Deep Expertise in Databricks and modern data platforms.
• Proven experience in solution architecture for enterprise‑scale data and analytics engagements.
• Strong knowledge of data engineering, integration patterns, and API design.
• Skilled in software engineering principles, DevOps, and automation.
• Excellent communication skills to articulate complex technical concepts clearly.
• Collaborative mindset with a passion for driving innovation and best practices.

Advantageous Qualifications and Skills

• Databricks
• Microsoft Fabric
• Python
• SQL
• Spark