Merlin Technology | London / Hybrid | B2Our purposeBring joy, create connections, and make memories.Our visionTo be the global leader in branded entertainment destinations and the greatest place to work and play.The roleMerlin is in the middle of a major Digital and Data Transformation, reshaping how we use data to enhance the end-to-end guest journey across our world-class attractions.As Principal Data Engineer, you’ll sit at the heart of this transformation. This is a true player-coach role: setting the technical direction for our future data estate while remaining hands-on, leading by example and raising the engineering bar across the organisation.In Phase 1, you’ll lead early-stage architectural decision-making, defining the blueprint for our new data platform in partnership with Enterprise Architecture. You’ll choose the patterns and approaches that will shape Merlin’s data future, then pivot into delivery – turning strategy into resilient, production-ready platforms.You’ll also lead the discovery and stabilisation of our legacy “Lane 1” estate while building the “Lane 2” foundations designed to scale. Just as importantly, you’ll act as the technical face of Data to the business, confidently explaining trade-offs between fixing fast and building right.What You’ll Be Responsible ForArchitectural leadershipDefine the directional architecture for Merlin’s new Data EstateLead decision-making on Databricks and Azure usage, setting standards such as Lakehouse, Medallion and event-driven patternsPartner with Enterprise Architecture to ensure alignment with the wider technology blueprintPeople leadershipLine manage the Data Engineering squad, setting the technical culture and standardsLead hiring, onboarding, performance management and development planningOwn engineering feasibility and complexity, working alongside the Delivery Lead who owns value and prioritisationEnsure technical debt is intentional, documented and does not undermine long-term architectureEngineering standards & cultureEmbed modern engineering practices: CI/CD, automated testing, observability and FinOpsDrive the shift from scripting to true software engineeringDiscovery & decommissioningLead deep discovery of the legacy data estateDecide what to retire, what to retain and how to migrate safely without disrupting the businessCross-functional collaborationAct as translator between complex data engineering realities and business outcomesWork closely with Delivery, Architecture, Data Science, Governance and the wider Engineering communityHelp define global standards for coding, security and DevOps across MerlinShape technical roadmaps aligned to long-term business goals and manage expectations on deliveryWho you’ll work withEnterprise ArchitectureData Delivery LeadSenior business stakeholdersThe wider Engineering communityData Science, Governance and Delivery teamsQualifications & ExperienceWhat we’re looking forExperienceDegree in Data Science, Computer Science or a related fieldSignificant hands-on experience in data engineering or data architecture (typically 5–8 years), with typically 3 years leadership experienceDeep expertise in Databricks, Azure, SQL and Python (GCP / BigQuery experience a plus)Proven experience refactoring and modernising legacy data estates while maintaining business continuityTrack record of owning architectural decisions and defining data platform blueprintsSkills & MindsetPlayer-coach leadership style with a strong hands-on engineering presenceHigh EQ and confidence working with non-technical stakeholdersPragmatic, resilient approach that balances technical excellence with delivery realitiesStrong software engineering mindset with a passion for quality, reliability and sustainabilityHow we lead at MerlinOur Leaders AreSoulfully Curious – always learning and open to new ideasResults Focused – accountable, pragmatic and outcome-drivenExtraordinary Teammates – collaborative, generous and respectfulDevelopers of People – coaches who grow talent and capabilityWhy Merlin?You’ll have the opportunity to shape a modern data platform from the ground up in a globally recognised, purpose-driven business. This role offers real influence, technical ownership and the chance to build something that will power unforgettable guest experiences for years to come.BenefitsWe’re growing fast and alongside a fun and friendly environment, we offer a fabulous package and amazing prospects – ideal if you’re already fantastic and want to become even better (our magic can help here). Benefits include Pension, Life Assurance, discretionary company bonus, 33 days’ holiday including bank holidays, a Merlin Magic Pass which gives you and your friends and family free admission to all of our attractions worldwide, an Enjoy the Ride pass which entitles you and 5 loved ones unlimited entry into your regional attractions, 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants and 40% discount on LEGO, plus lots more! Pay Range Competitive