Data & AI Engineer

Hastings Direct; Bexhill-on-Sea; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Hybrid working

Annual bonus

Private medical insurance

Pension contribution match up to 10%

Life insurance

Cycle to work

Health cash back plans

Job summary

Hastings Direct is seeking a Data & AI Engineer to design, build and support scalable data and AI solutions that enable analytics, automation and AI-driven business outcomes. You will develop Snowflake-based data platforms to support reporting, data science and ML workloads, and create automated data pipelines with governance.

You will collaborate with stakeholders, promote best practices in SQL, Python, data modelling and AI development, and drive adoption of AI and MLOps to deliver innovative

Qualifications

• Experience with Snowflake including SQL development and data modelling.
• Experience with Azure services (DF, DevOps, Functions, Logic Apps).
• Proficiency in Python for data processing and automation.
• Understanding of cloud-based data platforms and modern data architecture.
• Exposure to AI/ML/generative AI in business contexts.
• Experience with Agile (Scrum/Kanban).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with data engineering tools such as Airflow, dbt, Dataform.

Responsibilities

• Design, build and support scalable data and AI solutions for analytics, automation and AI-driven outcomes.
• Develop Snowflake-based data platforms to support reporting, data science and ML workloads.
• Create automated, reliable data pipelines with governance and security standards.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to promote best practices in SQL, Python, data modelling and AI development.
• Drive adoption of AI, ML and generative AI technologies to deliver innovative business solutions.
• Improve platform performance, scalability and operational efficiency with ML governance and MLOps.

Skills

Snowflake

SQL development

Data modelling

Orchestration

Azure Data Factory

Azure DevOps

Azure Functions

Logic Apps

Python

Cloud data platforms

AI / ML / Generative AI

Agile

Airflow

dbt

Dataform

Communication

Tools

Airflow

dbt

Dataform

Job description

Introduction

We’re a digital insurance provider with ambitious plans to become The Best and Biggest in the UK market. Over the past few years, we've made significant investments in our data and tech capabilities, particularly within our CIO function. Our CIO team is at the forefront of driving innovation and ensuring our technology infrastructure supports our ambitious goals. We’ve nurtured our 4Cs culture, fostering collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement. We’re proud of the journey we’re on as a company and know that our continued success will rely on the contribution of our talented colleagues. The CIO team plays a crucial role in this journey, working on cutting‑edge projects that enhance our digital presence and improve customer engagement. We provide insurance to nearly four million customers, but we know there’s even bigger opportunity out there. The fact you’re now reading this job advert means we’ve tempted you to find out more about #lifeatHD – we really hope you like what you see, and you’ll join us to share in the success of the exciting chapter that lies ahead. We understand some people may not apply for jobs unless they feel they tick every box. If you are excited about joining us and think you have some of what we are looking for, even if you’re not 100% sure, we would love to hear from you. Our CIO team is always looking for passionate individuals who are eager to make a difference and contribute to our success.

Job Details

As a Data & AI Engineer you will design, build and support scalable data and AI solutions that enable analytics, automation, and AI-driven business outcomes. Develop and optimise Snowflake-based data platforms to support reporting, data science, and machine learning workloads. Create automated, reliable, and observable data pipelines that meet engineering, governance, and security standards. Collaborate with stakeholders and technical teams to promote best practices in SQL, Python, data modelling, and AI development. Drive the adoption of AI, machine learning, and generative AI technologies to deliver innovative business solutions. Continuously improve platform performance, scalability, and operational efficiency while supporting AI governance and MLOps best practices.

Unfortunately we are unable to progress with candidates that require sponsorship at this time

Skills we would love you to have

Experience working with Snowflake, including SQL development, data modelling, orchestration, and integration management. Experience with Azure services, including Azure Data Factory, Azure DevOps, Azure Functions, and Logic Apps. Proficiency in Python for data processing, automation, and solution development. Understanding of cloud-based data platforms and modern data architecture principles. Exposure to AI, machine learning, or generative AI technologies and their practical application within business environments. Experience working within Agile delivery frameworks such as Scrum or Kanban. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a focus on delivering high-quality solutions. Experience with modern data engineering tools such as Airflow, dbt, Dataform, or similar technologies. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non‑technical audiences.

What we offer

• Reward Salary – Attractive salary based on experience + car allowance (pay reviews also completed each year)
• Flexible Working –We champion a flexible and hybrid working approach so please speak to your recruiter to discuss in more detail, including days in the office and at home.
• Competitive Bonus Scheme- All colleagues are eligible for our annual 4Cs performance bonus, which is usually paid in March. The scheme is based on Hastings’ performance against our business goals and your own personal performance.
• Physical Wellbeing – as a Band 4 colleague, Hastings pay for you to receive private medical Insurance (also known as PMI) This gives you flexibility and convenience to see a specialist or consultant and allows you to decide when and where you will be seen.
• Financial Wellbeing – As well as providing you with 4x your salary with our life assurance cover and income protection at no extra cost, pension contribution match up to 10%, we are proud to provide you with an AWARD WINNING package which includes – discounts and cashback at everyday retailers and on our own products, fee free independent mortgage advice, and free access to financial wellbeing support.
• Mental Wellbeing programme – At Hastings Direct we understand that mental health cannot not be scheduled, that’s why we have a range of support to help you keep yourself well. We have the thrive mental health app, our colleague assistance programme available 24/7, our own, in-house mental health first aiders, support groups and a dedicated team to make sure we are covering your needs.
• There’s more! – 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell one of your contracted weeks, access to our health care cash back plans, dental plans, discounted health assessments, Cycle to work and tech schemes, discounted and free onsite facilities, social events throughout the year and much more ….

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Hastings Group is an equal opportunities employer which means we treat people fairly. We welcome applications from all suitably skilled persons regardless of their gender, age, race, disability, ethnic background, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or marital/family status. Please also note that we have a thorough referencing process, which includes credit and criminal record checks. At Hastings Direct, we’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, we encourage you to be open with us. Our recruitment team is here to provide the support you need to ensure a fair and accessible experience for all.

About the Company

Hastings Direct is a fast growing, agile, digitally focused general insurance provider of products and services to over 4 million customers in the UK, employing over 4,600 colleagues. Our vision – to be the best and biggest digital insurance provider in the market. It's our attitude and the way we run our business that makes us different. We focus on getting it right for our colleagues, customers, company and community. It's a dynamic, flexible, fun and constantly changing environment. You'll enjoy the scope to make a real difference for our customers, influence our company, benefit the communities we work in and have fun along the way.