Lead Data Engineer | Python & SQL
Summary
Hands-on leadership role at a growing AI-powered SaaS company in London: own the data engineering function, mentor and manage data engineers, and build reliable Python/SQL data pipelines that support live AI products. Hybrid working (office Mon–Thu, WFH Friday); salary up to £90,000.
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.