Shape and evolve Arden University’s data platform
Drive improvements in student experience, outcomes, and operational efficiency
Contribute to the development and optimisation of the University’s core data infrastructure
Ensure platform robustness, scalability, and reliability
Provide guidance on modern cloud data technologies, including Power BI and Microsoft Fabric
Support development of a forward-looking data platform strategy
Identify opportunities for enhancements to the data platform
Support and coach the wider data team, promoting best practices
Focus on platform engineering, architecture and continuous improvement

Familiarity with big data technologies and ecosystems such as Microsoft Synapse/Fabric/Databricks, Hadoop, Spark, Kafka, and others.
Experience with programming languages such as Python, R or SQL
Solid understanding of database design and theory, including SQL and NoSQL technologies
Knowledge of data engineering principles, including ETL design and data lifecycle management
Familiarity with data pipeline and integration tools such as Data Factory, Airflow or similar
Understanding of CI/CD, DevOps practices and version control (e.g. Git)
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
Demonstrable experience delivering business value through data and analytics
Formal Data & Analytics certifications (e.g. Certified Analytics Professional, Azure Data Engineer or Data Scientist Associate)
Experience with big data technologies such as Spark, Kafka, or Hadoop ecosystems
Familiarity with agile delivery methodologies such as Scrum
Experience across multiple data disciplines such as data warehousing, BI, data governance, data architecture or data strategy
Knowledge of lakehouse architecture and modern data platform patterns
Experience working within the Higher Education sector
Understanding of data science tools and techniques within Azure
Awareness of data governance, security and regulatory requirements (e.g. GDPR)

30 days holiday + bank holidays on-top, and even a Christmas closure!
A generous Aviva pension plan, company contributions starting from 7%
SimplyHealth plan option
Private Medical Insurance coverage (applies to certain job roles)
Access to Perkbox benefits
Study any Arden course for free, with a discount for all family and friends
Plus, other excellent benefits
Our ‘Golden Ticket’ which allows you to gift anyone in your life a free Arden education

Data Platform Engineer

Key skills