Junior Data Engineer - 32482

Environment Agency; Sunbury-on-Thames; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A governmental agency in Sunbury-on-Thames seeks a data analytics specialist to support the development and deployment of data products. The role involves managing large datasets, building reliable ETL pipelines, and utilizing Python for innovative solutions. Ideal candidates should have strong SQL Server knowledge and be able to collaborate effectively in a diverse team environment. The agency promotes an inclusive culture and encourages flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Flexible working patterns

Qualifications

• Extensive experience managing and analysing large datasets from multiple sources.
• Strong expertise in Python, including developing reusable functions.
• Solid knowledge of SQL Server and data warehousing best practices.

Responsibilities

• Support development and deployment of data products and analytics tools.
• Enhance delivery through evidence, expertise, and engagement across dispersed teams.

Skills

Managing and analysing large datasets

Organising data in STAR schema

Building and maintaining ETL pipelines

Python programming

SQL Server and database management

Analytical tools for data transformation

Problem-solving for data management

Collaboration and inclusion

Job description

Overview

The Environment Agency is undergoing modernisation of systems and IT infrastructure and moving towards Microsoft Azure cloud computing and Microsoft analytics tooling and technology such as Synapse Analytics, Fabric and PowerBI. This represents a new and exciting opportunity for the Water Quality Digital Services team to become a pioneering group delivering new ways to do reporting and analytics. The team focuses on building innovative products that improve origination efficiency and enhance our ability to transform data into meaningful insights for effective decision-making. We promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive culture where everyone feels valued.

Responsibilities

Support the development and deployment of data products and analytics tools to enable the Water Quality user community to efficiently leverage data from various sources, better inform business insights and drive effective policy changes. Work with teams across the country as a dispersed team, applying evidence, expertise, engagement, and innovation to enhance delivery.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience managing and analysing large datasets from multiple sources to support varied reporting and analytics needs.
• Experience in organising data in STAR schema data models that effectively represent business entities and relationships and support efficient querying and analysis from relational data warehouses.
• Experience building and maintaining reliable ETL pipelines to integrate data from diverse sources.
• Strong Python expertise, including development of clean, reusable functions and object‑oriented code for production-quality solutions.
• Solid knowledge of SQL Server, database management, and data warehousing best practices.
• Proficiency with analytical tools and programming languages to transform raw data into actionable insights.
• Ability to solve complex problems and formulate efficient and innovative solutions using sound data management and data analysis practices.
• Ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds while promoting inclusion and collaboration.

Application Process

If a large number of applications are received, an initial sift using this lead capability may be conducted. Successful candidates will then proceed to a full sift or directly to assessment/interview.

Describe a time when you implemented a new innovative approach to satisfy a specific data reporting requirement. Describe the approach and what you did to ensure the process was resilient, repeatable and quality assured.

Give an example of when you have had to solve a complex data analysis problem that involved diverse data sources. What data did you use? What was the problem and what decisions did you take to solve it?

Provide an example of a complex data management task you have undertaken. Explain how you approached this and provide details on the data, tools and techniques used.

Additional Information

For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.

The Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service.

We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share. Please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified the application may be withdrawn.

The Environment Agency is fully committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We do not just talk about diversity; we seek it, embrace it, and live it, for the benefit of our staff, our communities, and our environment.