Lead Data Engineer | Python & SQL

Salary: Up to £90,000 depending on experience

Location: London | Office Monday to Thursday, Friday working from home

Ref: J13197

A growing AI-powered SaaS business is looking for a Lead Data Engineer to take ownership of its Data Engineering function, strengthen technical delivery and develop a growing team.

This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll shape engineering standards, improve development practices and ensure reliable data pipelines support live AI-powered products.

Working closely with technical and product teams, you'll balance day-to-day engineering with longer-term improvements, helping establish a consistent and scalable approach to delivery.

What you'll be doing:

• Lead, mentor and develop Data Engineers, including line management and supporting future recruitment.
• Establish engineering standards, coding practices and effective delivery processes.
• Design, develop and optimise data pipelines using Python and SQL.
• Oversee code reviews, automated testing, Git workflows and CI/CD.
• Improve data modelling, deployment processes and production reliability.
• Support the integration of AI outputs into production data pipelines.
• Introduce practical AI-assisted development tools while maintaining code quality and appropriate controls.

What we're looking for:

• Experience leading or significantly improving a Data Engineering team or function.
• Proven people management experience, including mentoring and developing engineers.
• Strong hands-on Python and SQL skills, with the ability to tackle complex technical challenges.
• Experience designing and delivering production data pipelines and data models.
• Good knowledge of cloud infrastructure, deployment automation and engineering best practices.
• The ability to introduce improvements without losing sight of delivery priorities.
• Strong communication skills and confidence working with senior technical and product stakeholders.

Who would this suit?

A hands-on Lead Data Engineer or Data Engineering Manager who enjoys developing engineers, improving technical standards and taking ownership of reliable data delivery in a growing product environment.