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Posted 15 August, 2026

Lead Cloud Data Engineer

StepChange Debt Charity
Leeds, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Ready to shape the future of data at one of the UK's leading charities, building a modern AWS cloud data platform from the ground up?Want to lead the adoption of cutting-edge cloud, data lakehouse and governance solutions that put data at the heart of a five-year digital transformation strategy?Are you an experienced Cloud Data Engineer looking for a pivotal role where your expertise will drive innovation, maturity and lasting impact for millions of people seeking debt advice?As our Lead Cloud Data Engineer, you'll shape a modern AWS cloud-native data platform that powers operational and analytical insights across the charity. From developing scalable data lakehouse architectures and transformation pipelines to supporting the adoption of robust data governance, you'll establish a brand-new capability and play a pivotal role in delivering our ambitious five-year digital transformation strategy, with data at its core.What youll be doingYou'll lead the development and adoption of StepChange's modern AWS cloud-native data platform, driving strategic initiatives that put data at the heart of our digital transformation. As the owner of our data lakehouse platform, you'll design and deliver scalable data solutions, pipelines and services, working closely with engineering, governance, security and risk teams to ensure data is trusted, compliant and delivers real business value.As a senior leader within our technology function, you'll work in lock-step with data peers to champion data engineering best practices, mentor colleagues on emerging cloud, AI and machine learning technologies, and ensure our data platform is secure, reliable and cost-effective. This is a unique opportunity to shape a new capability, influence organisation-wide decisions and play a key role in delivering our ambitious five-year strategy.What youll bringWe're looking for a passionate data engineering leader with deep expertise in AWS and modern cloud-native data platforms. You'll bring hands-on experience designing and delivering scalable data solutions, including data lakehouse architectures, transformation pipelines, serverless technologies, relational databases and Infrastructure as Code. You'll also be comfortable working with strategic third-party technology and modern engineering practices such as CI/CD, automation and cloud security.Just as importantly, you'll be a natural collaborator who can help teams embrace new technologies and ways of working. With strong communication skills, a strategic mindset and a passion for innovation, you'll be able to translate complex concepts into practical solutions that drive business value. AWS certifications, particularly in Data Engineering or Data Architecture, will be highly valued.Equality, Diversity, and InclusionEquality, diversity, and inclusion are incredibly important to us; we have a culture of belonging. Were always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce to ensure we can provide the best service possible for everyone. Its not just about the professional experience you bring were interested in who you are and your potential. If theres an adjustment to our recruitment process that would help you to be your best, speak to our team and theyll be happy to help.TPBN1_UKTJ