Principal Engineer
Principal Engineer - Database Platform
Location: Sheffield, UK (Hybrid)
Contract: 6 months (with possible extension)
We're seeking an highly experienced Principal Engineer to lead the strategy, design, and evolution of enterprise-scale database infrastructure within a major banking environment. This is a senior technical leadership role ideal for someone passionate about modern database platforms, large-scale architecture, and driving engineering excellence.
What You'll Be Doing
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Define and drive the long-term strategy for database infrastructure aligned with business and IT goals
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Act as the go-to expert for database technologies, advising senior stakeholders and engineering teams
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Co-lead the architecture and implementation of shared database platforms (DBaaS/PaaS)
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Partner with Product Owners, Architects, and stakeholders to shape technical requirements and solutions
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Identify and resolve engineering challenges while strengthening cross-functional capabilities
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Champion innovation by evaluating emerging technologies and modern engineering practices
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Serve as a key technical decision-maker, balancing performance, scalability, and risk
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Improve operational efficiency through automation and process optimisation
What We're Looking For
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Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
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10+ years of engineering experience, including 5+ years in senior/principal roles
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Deep expertise in database technologies (relational, NoSQL, distributed SQL) across IaaS/DBaaS environments
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Strong experience in infrastructure architecture, performance tuning, and capacity planning
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Hands-on knowledge of microservices, API development, automation, and application design
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Solid understanding of SRE principles, DevOps practices, and Infrastructure as Code
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Experience with modern testing practices and engineering tooling
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Proven success delivering large-scale enterprise solutions
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Strong leadership, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills
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Experience working in global, matrixed organisations
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Excellent communication skills with the ability to simplify complex technical concepts