Principal Data Engineer

Breedon

  • Derbyshire
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 month ago
Principal Data EngineerApplication Deadline: 16 August 2025Department: Information Technology ServicesEmployment Type: Permanent - Full TimeLocation: Lockington, DerbyshireDescriptionBREEDON GROUP PLC is a leading construction materials group operating from over 400 sites across the UK and Ireland.We have an opportunity to join our thriving Data & Analytics team with an exciting plan and long-term vision. We are seeking an experienced data engineer, with skills in Microsoft Azure and SQL, to take a key role in designing, building and deployment of our Azure data platform and Azure Integration Services in line with our enterprise architecture.The RoleAs we set out on the journey of moving towards a data led organisation we have identified the need for an individual to help transform our data management capabilities, designing, implementing and maintaining our Azure data platform which will enable our ambitions to become a data driven business.We are looking for an exceptional individual who play a significant role in delivering our vision, to help define and implement the data platform strategy and architecture that aligns with business objectives. In doing so, providing a platform for data scientists, data engineers and analysts across the business to become self-serving.This is a senior, hands-on role focused on designing and delivering scalable data solutions using Azure technologies including Azure Synapse Analytics, Microsoft Fabric, Azure Databricks, and Logic Apps.By investing in our data platform, we will transform the way we work, making us more effective, efficient and profitable for the future. We are looking to exceed the requirements set out by our stakeholders.Key Responsibilities
  • Help define and take the lead on the deployment of modern data engineering solutions across the Microsoft Azure ecosystem
  • Build, automate, and manage scalable ETL/ELT data pipelines using Microsoft Fabric and Azure Synapse
  • Lead the adoption and implementation of Microsoft Fabric as the core of our unified data platform
  • Integrate diverse data sources across on-premise systems, cloud platforms, and third-party applications using Azure Integration Services (Logic Apps, API Management, Event Grid)
  • Drive best practices in data ingestion, transformation, governance, and lineage
  • Support AI Engineers in building Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipelines, including embedding generation, document chunking, and vector database integration
  • Optimize data pipelines that feed LLM-based agents, ensuring high-performance retrieval and timely access to knowledge
  • Collaborate with colleagues in Data & Analytics Team to ensure reliable, timely access to trusted data
  • Mentor junior engineers and support continuous improvement across the team
  • Ensure solutions meet security, compliance, and performance standards
  • Lead performance tuning, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis of critical data processes
  • Contribute to the overall data strategy, architecture roadmap, and technology stack decisions
Skills, Knowledge & ExpertiseExperience and knowledge:
  • Experience of designing and implementation of an Azure analytical platform including Azure Integration Services, Azure Synapse Analytics, Microsoft Fabric, Azure Databricks and Logic Apps
  • Experience of working with senior stakeholders to articulate the strategy, objectives and benefits of a central enterprise cloud data platform
  • Experience of DevOps to manage workload
  • Experience of coaching and mentoring data engineers to achieve successful outcomes
  • Understanding of data sciences tools and techniques combined with an understanding of a range of data sources
  • Familiarity with AI-focused data engineering, including RAG systems, vector databases, embedding pipelines, and semantic indexing
  • A proven record of collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders
  • Process mapping and supporting documentation production
  • Test plan formulation and managing through to resolution
Skills:
  • Ability to communicate and collaboration with multiple stakeholders across the business and within Breedon Technology Services
  • High level of technical proficiency in designing, implementing and maintaining a quality service
  • Research and evaluation of technological developments
  • Ability to analyse and troubleshoot potential issues within the platform
  • Ability to identify creative solutions to overcome problems
  • Ability to impart knowledge and support the development of team members
  • Ability to support AI workflows by designing high-performance retrieval pipelines and working with AI engineering teams
Job Benefits
  • Company Pension
  • Discount Scheme
  • Enhanced Maternity, Paternity & Adoptions Scheme
  • Free on-site Parking
  • Health & Wellbeing Initiatives
  • Life Assurance
  • Share Save Scheme
  • Volunteering Policy
  • Holiday Buy Scheme

Breedon