Senior Data Engineer & Architect

Communicate Recruitment; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Communicate Recruitment is seeking a senior data platform engineer to own large-scale data and ML platform architecture in Cape Town. You will shape standards and technical strategy to deliver AI-ready solutions powering business success.

We expect 7–10 years in data engineering or similar, strong SQL and Python, and proven leadership of enterprise-scale data initiatives. Cloud-based data platforms and robust data governance are essential.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years in data engineering or senior roles with data platforms.
• Strong SQL and Python with ETL/ELT and data modelling experience.
• Experience owning platform architecture and driving standards.

Responsibilities

• Own platform architecture and technical standards for data and ML platforms.
• Lead enterprise-scale data initiatives across the business.
• Mentor engineering teams and influence stakeholders.
• Design scalable, secure, and governance-driven data ecosystems.

Skills

Data Engineering

Python

SQL

ETL/ELT

Machine Learning

Data Governance

Cloud Platforms

Leadership

Education

Degree in Computer Science or related

Experience leading enterprise-scale data architecture

ML at scale experience

Tools

Airflow

Prefect

Azure Data Factory

Job description

Job Description:

Take ownership of large-scale data and machine learning platforms, shaping architecture, standards, and technical strategy. This is an opportunity to enjoy the freedom to solve complex challenges, influence decision-making, and build AI-ready solutions that power business success.

Skills & Experience:

• Minimum 7-10 years' experience in Data Engineering, Data Platform Development, or a similar senior-level role
• Strong SQL and Python expertise with extensive ETL/ELT and data modelling experience
• Proven experience owning platform architecture and driving technical standards
• Strong Machine Learning and MLOps experience in production environments
• Experience designing scalable, resilient, and secure data ecosystems
• Deep understanding of data governance, security, and platform reliability
• Ability to lead technical discussions and influence stakeholders across the business
• Strong mentoring skills with a passion for elevating engineering teams
• Experience with orchestration tools such as Airflow, Prefect, or Azure Data Factory advantageous

Qualification:

• Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience leading enterprise-scale data architecture and platform initiatives
• Strong track record of building and deploying machine learning solutions at scale
• Experience working with modern cloud-based data platforms and AI-enabled technologies

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