Principal Data Engineer

Tech that takes you places

We’re CarTrawler, the global travel tech company behind seamless connections between people, places and possibilities. From powering car rental to creating smarter ways to move, we make travel smoother for millions worldwide. Our culture is built on curiosity, collaboration and craic where every idea counts and every journey matters. Ready to make an impact? Let’s go places together.

CarTrawler’s Product & Technology team brings innovation to every journey. Together, our engineers, product managers, designers and analysts use creativity, data and AI innovation to solve challenges that make travel easier for everyone. From building seamless digital experiences to powering smarter automation behind the scenes, we’re shaping a future where technology and people work hand in hand.

Your Journey starts here!

Driving the evolution of our data platform, this role blends deep technical expertise with leadership to shape how data powers decisions across the business. You’ll design and build scalable, high-performing data solutions while guiding the team toward engineering excellence. Working at the intersection of data, AI and product innovation, you’ll influence architecture, accelerate delivery and elevate standards. This is a hands-on leadership role where your impact will be felt in both the codebase and the capability of the team. If you’re passionate about building robust systems and mentoring others to do the same, this is your opportunity to make a lasting mark.

What you’ll do as a Principal Data Engineer

Lead the architecture, development of high-quality data solutions on our cutting edge data stack with Snowflake, dbt and Airflow, Soda.

Write high-quality, production-grade Python and SQL for complex, business-critical data workflows.

Define and shape data architecture, models and standards to support analytics, data products and AI initiatives.

Drive delivery through clear prioritisation, effective dependency management, and a strong focus on reliable, high-quality outcomes.

Partner closely with stakeholders and teams across the business to shape data requirements and drive solution ideation.

Mentor and support engineers through code reviews, coaching and establishing best practices across the team.

What you’ll bring to the team

Strong experience in data engineering, with a track record of designing and operating scalable data platforms.

Advanced proficiency in Python and SQL, with expertise in building robust data pipelines and models.

Hands-on experience with modern data tooling such as Snowflake, dbt, Airflow and data quality frameworks.

Proven ability to lead and mentor engineers, fostering a culture of learning, ownership and continuous improvement.

Solid understanding of cloud environments (preferably AWS) and data warehousing best practices.

Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate business needs into clear technical solutions and influence stakeholders.

Go on, give it a go!

We know that looking for a new job can feel a bit daunting but don’t let a touch of imposter syndrome hold you back. Even if you don’t tick every box, we’d still love to hear from you! Apply today to stay connected.

At CarTrawler, we’re proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. No matter your background, identity, or life experience, if you’re passionate about what you do, you’ll be welcomed here.

Perks for the journey

Competitive pay and benefits, including a performance-based annual bonus, fully subsidised VHI health insurance and pension matching up to 4%.

Generous time off and flexible working, including 25 days’ annual leave, extra company days, monthly Friday Unplugged afternoons and the option to work abroad for up to 20 days a year.

Comprehensive wellbeing support, including access to health and mental health programmes (HeadsUp and EAP) and paid leave for marriage, volunteering and personal wellbeing including menstrual, menopause, and fertility leave.

Growth and recognition culture with development opportunities through training, coaching and study support plus programmes that celebrate individual and team achievements.

Everyday perks that make a difference - subsidised canteen (KC Peaches), on-site car parking, Bike to Work and TaxSaver schemes plus an active Sports & Social Club.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.