Why Join Thorn SDS? At Thorn SDS, we specialise in enabling technology organisations to thrive in the Space, Defence, and Security sectors. We’re trusted to deliver excellence where it matters most, and we’re now looking for a Senior Data Engineer (SFIA Level 5) to help us unlock the power of data in one of the UK’s most secure environments. If you’re passionate about data engineering and want your skills to directly support mission-critical projects, this is your opportunity to make an impact. What You’ll Do As our Data Engineer, you’ll be at the heart of designing and building scalable, secure, and resilient data pipelines that power decision-making across highly sensitive operations. You’ll work with structured and unstructured data, across cloud and on-prem platforms, to ensure that data flows seamlessly, securely, and reliably. Your work will enable advanced analytics, support operational excellence, and ensure that data is trusted and ready for action. Day-to-day, you will: Design and deliver robust data pipelines to move and transform data efficiently. Build and optimise ETL/ELT processes for both batch and real-time systems. Champion data quality with validation, cleansing, and enrichment techniques. Collaborate with analysts, scientists, and stakeholders to shape data solutions. Manage storage solutions – from databases to data lakes – for performance and scalability. Embed security, compliance, and governance into every solution. Drive automation with scripting and orchestration tools. Stay ahead of the curve by adopting the latest tools and techniques in data engineering. Mentor junior engineers and play a key role in team growth. What We’re Looking For You’re not just a Data Engineer – you’re someone who thrives on solving complex problems, optimising systems, and ensuring data works hard for its users. You’ll bring: Proven experience as a Senior Data Engineer. Strong skills in SQL plus a programming language (Python, Scala, or Java). Deep understanding of ETL/ELT, data warehousing, and data modelling. Hands-on experience with big data platforms (Spark, Hadoop). Knowledge of cloud data services (AWS Glue, Azure Data Factory, or GCP Dataflow). Familiarity with data governance, privacy, and security best practices. Strong problem-solving skills and a collaborative approach. Excellent communication skills for working with both technical and non-technical teams. Certifications (AWS, Azure, GCP) – highly desirable. What’s in It for You? We know our people are our strength. That’s why we invest in your wellbeing, growth, and future. ✅ 25 days holiday Bank Holidays ✅ Employer pension contributions ✅ Group Life Insurance ✅ Dental & Health cashback plans ✅ Wellbeing support (GP, Physio, savings benefits & more) ✅ Cycle to Work scheme ✅ Dedicated training & development opportunities ✅ Thorn Wellbeing Support Contribution Ready to Make an Impact? This is your chance to elevate your career and use your skills in a role where data engineering meets national security. Apply now to join Thorn SDS and play a key role in shaping the future of secure data solutions. All applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK. Due to the nature of this role, you must hold, or be eligible to obtain, a high level of UK National Security clearance – for more information see GOV.UK Occasional travel to UK sites, with overnight stays, may also be required. LI-JM1