Data Engineering Lead

Data Engineering Lead

The closing date is 06 March 2026

An exciting opportunity has arisen to play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality, efficient healthcare by leading the Data Engineering Team within the Data & Analytics Directorate. The team provides robust, timely, and accurate data to support operational, clinical, and corporate decision-making, primarily through Power BI and enterprise data platforms.

As part of a strategic transformation, the organisation is transitioning from traditional on‑premise data warehouses to modern cloud‑based technologies, including Databricks. The postholder will be part of this transition, ensuring the adoption of best practices and the latest innovations to establish a scalable, high‑performing data platform that positions the team as an exemplar within and beyond the NHS.

• Contribute to the development and delivery of a strategic roadmap for the Data Platform, supporting the move to Databricks and other modern technologies.
• Support the design and implementation of scalable, efficient data warehouse and pipeline solutions.
• Ensure data structures are optimised for aggregation, analysis, and reporting.
• Work closely within the Data Engineering Team to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Share knowledge and mentor colleagues, supporting their development and the adoption of new technologies.
• Collaborate with other Data & Analytics teams to align efforts and share best practices.
• Support the transition from on‑premise data warehouses to Databricks, ensuring smooth migration and minimal disruption.
• Contribute to the administration and optimisation of the Azure platform and ensure robust data services.
• Maintain high standards of data quality, governance, and compliance with NHS standards.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to align data solutions with organisational needs.
• Represent the Data Engineering function in relevant meetings and forums.
• Work with partners across the organisation and wider health system to support strategic data requirements.

The Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA) provides hospital and integrated health and social care services to over one million people across Greater Manchester. Our 20,000 colleagues care for people in hospital and in the community, working across Bury, Rochdale, Oldham and Salford.

As a large NHS trust we are committed to enhancing the health of our local population by delivering consistently high standards of care and working closely with local authorities and key partners. We believe in our power and potential to make a difference and we're always looking for people who demonstrate our three core values
- care
, appreciate and inspire - to join our team.

In return, we can offer you a job role with purpose and flexibility. The size and scale of the NCA means we can provide more challenge and opportunities so your career can always be moving in the right direction. By joining us you can also access a competitive benefits package, including a fantastic annual leave allowance, flexible working opportunities and protected hours for health and wellbeing activities, helping you to achieve more personal downtime and a better work‑life balance.

To read more information about the advertised role, and the main job duties/responsibilities please open the Job Description and Person Specification located under the supporting documents heading.

• Degree in numerate / informatics or business management related subject or equivalent experience in delivery of the responsibilities described at senior management level
• Microsoft SQL Server Certification or evidence of SQL server management over 3 years
• Evidence of relevant continued professional development in specialist informatics area

• Formal Management / Leadership training or demonstrable leadership experience and skills
• Microsoft Azure Certification or evidence of Azure management
• PRINCE2
• Informatics related courses and qualifications

• Membership of a relevant Fed‑IP recognised professional body is…