Contract Data Engineer - APIs / Python / Power BI / Machine Learning
£400 to £500 per day (Outside IR35)
6-month initial contract with likely extensions
Hybrid, two days per week onsite with a Midlands-based retail business

The opportunity
A leading UK retail business is expanding its data function and looking for a hands-on Data Engineer to help improve how data moves, connects and delivers insight across the organisation.

You will work in a small, collaborative team that focuses on building APIs, automating data processes and creating reliable reporting frameworks. The role blends engineering, analytics and applied AI, offering genuine variety and visible impact.

What you will be doing

Building and optimising data pipelines and APIs between internal systems and third-party partners
Improving data quality, automation and consistency across storage and reporting layers
Designing and publishing Power BI reports and dashboards to support commercial decision making
Exploring opportunities to apply AI and machine learning to improve forecasting and automation
Working closely with stakeholders to align data solutions with business objectives

What we are looking for

Proven experience as a Data Engineer or Data Developer in a commercial environment
Strong knowledge of Python and SQL
Experience building data pipelines or APIs using any modern framework or toolset
Familiarity with Databricks, Power BI or similar data visualisation tools
Understanding of machine learning concepts or AI-driven process automation
Strong communication skills with the ability to explain technical work to business users

Why join

A high-impact role within a growing data function at a major UK retail business
The chance to shape how data is designed, integrated and used across multiple systems
A mix of engineering, reporting and applied AI projects
A collaborative, delivery-focused environment that values initiative and commercial awareness