The role of a data engineer involves gathering and revising data to create accurate business insights that allow leaders to make properly informed project decisions. Data engineers operate as part of a team, supporting data scientists and communicating their analysis and interpretating the data they have collected.

BMR Solutions is the leading engineering and technical recruitment agency in Bristol and the South West. We’ve helped many aspiring data engineers secure the career move of their dreams, connecting them to exciting employers who truly value their skills.

In this article, we explore the role of a data engineer so you can decide if it’s the right role for you, covering everything from the necessary skills to the salary you can expect to receive.

What Skills Does a Data Engineer Need?

Data engineers are required to be well skilled in data architecture and maintenance. As the specifications of each project can vary dramatically, a data engineer needs to have an extensive knowledge of a wide range of different technologies in order to perform their job competently, specialising in as many as 30 tools.

Many businesses operate using a single suite of cloud services from one vendor, such as Microsoft, so it’s necessary to have a thorough understanding of a variety of platforms and operating systems.

The range of technical skills a data engineer must have include:

  • SQL (Structured Query Language)
  • Java
  • Databases
  • ETL (Extract/Transform/Load)
  • Python
  • Beam
  • GCP (Google Cloud Platform)
  • AWS (Amazon Web Services)
  • Microsoft Azure.

Alongside technical skills, employers will also seek out candidates that can demonstrate the skills normally defined under managerial positions. These skills include:

  • Great communication.
  • Project management.
  • Time efficiency.
  • Collaboration within a team.

Need help crafting the ultimate CV that hits all these skill requirements and more? We’ve collated some top tips from our recruitment experts in a dedicated blog.

Data Analysist Engineer Qualifications

Those seeking a career in data engineering need to have key skills involving mathematics, programming, data mining, data management, IT and software development.

Typically, employers will look for the follow qualifications when searching for the perfect candidate:

A minimum of a bachelors degree in the following subjects:

  • Computer science.
  • Software engineering.
  • Information technology.
  • Mathematics

It can also help candidates during the recruitment process if they can show they have a certification in certain technology areas.

Examples of these certifications include:

  • Google Professional Data Engineer.
  • Cloudera Certified Professional (CCP): Data Engineer.
  • IBM Certified Data Engineer – Big Data.
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Data Analytics – Specialty.

Data Engineer Responsibilities

Data engineers can have a wide range of responsibilities depending on the organisation they work for, their level of seniority, and any particular specialisms. Some of the most common duties carried out by data engineers include:

  • Gathering data from primary and secondary sources.
  • Identifying and analysing trends in data.
  • Maintaining databases.
  • Using statistical techniques to understand, interpret and consolidate relevant data.
  • Building systems to collect and prepare data.

Data Engineer Employers

The skills of a data engineer are transferrable to many sectors, meaning that the role of a data engineer may be sought after by a variety of companies.

As data is an integral part of business, data engineering professionals are always in demand and the type of work available is varied. Data engineers are often employed by software corporations, computer system manufacturers, but extends to any company that requires data handling, from business consultancies to banking and lending.

At BMR Solutions, we have close connections with a number of employers actively seeking data engineers. You can browse the opportunities we currently have available here.

Data Engineer Salary

The salary of a data engineer varies depending on their specialist sector and the location of the role, however, the salary of data engineering roles based in the UK averages between £40,000 – £60,000.

With many opportunities for progression as your skills and experience develop, data engineering can prove to be a highly financially rewarding career choice. As with any field, further specialisation and aimins for more managerial level positions will guarantee you access to the highest salaries on offer.

Find out how to become a team leader here >

Secure Your Next Data Analysist Engineering Role with BMR Solutions

BMR Solutions are the leading recruitment specialists in the South West. We’re passionate about connecting talented candidates with potential employers, providing the best opportunities through our extensive network of connections and local links.

To find out more about how we can help you secure the role of your dreams, don’t hesitate to get into touch with our friendly team today. Alternatively, you can upload you CV online today to receive tailored job notifications.

Read next: Common Engineering Career Path Progression