Senior Data Engineer

About Simple Machines

Simple Machines is a prominent independent boutique technology company with offices across Sydney, New Zealand, London, and Poland. The company excels at developing cutting-edge solutions where Data Engineering, Software Engineering, and AI intersect. It is a collective of inventive engineers dedicated to converting complex data into meaningful insights and impactful systems. Their focus is on crafting customized data platforms and innovative software products that empower enterprises, scale-ups, and government entities to make informed, effective decisions. The company prides itself on building purposeful, non-generic solutions that truly influence outcomes, encapsulated in their motto "We engineer data to life™."

Role Summary

The Senior Data Engineer at Simple Machines plays an active, technical role in constructing real-time data pipelines and applying data mesh architectures to improve client data interaction capabilities. This position combines deep expertise in state-of-the-art data engineering with client consulting, supporting businesses in harnessing their data effectively. Working alongside a team of top engineers, the role involves designing greenfield data solutions that drive real business value across diverse technological environments. Adaptability and strong engineering fundamentals are emphasized over narrow specializations, making it ideal for software engineers with cloud and database experience aiming to transition into data engineering and AI.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and implement customized data platforms, pipelines, and integrations aligned with client-specific environments and goals.
• Develop scalable batch and real-time data processing systems.
• Engage directly with clients to gather requirements, manage expectations, and provide guidance on optimal data architecture and engineering practices.
• Quickly master and utilize new cloud platforms, tools, and frameworks as project needs evolve.
• Empower client teams by sharing knowledge and helping establish sound engineering standards.
• Ensure security, governance, and quality are integral elements of all delivered solutions.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Solid foundation in data or software engineering, demonstrated through clean, well-tested, production-level coding.
• Proficiency in multiple programming languages, with Python preferred.
• Experience working with cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud Platform, and/or Azure, including cloud-native services.
• Strong knowledge of SQL, databases, data warehouses, data modeling, and data storage patterns.
• Familiarity with containerization, continuous integration/delivery (CI/CD), and infrastructure-as-code principles.
• Exceptional communication skills capable of translating technical topics for non-technical clients, understanding their needs, and defining achievable expectations.
• A curious, flexible attitude geared towards continuous learning and thriving in varied project contexts.

Experience & Education

• A minimum of 5 years’ professional experience in data engineering, software engineering, or a related discipline.
• Consulting or professional services background is advantageous but not mandatory; strong communication skills will be supported and developed.
• A degree or equivalent qualification in computer science or a related field is required.