Principal Data Analyst (SC Cleared - Aerospace/Defence)

📍 Location: Reading (Hybrid - 2-3 days onsite, flexibility available)
🔐 Clearance: SC Cleared (Active)
💼 Contract Type: Inside IR35
💰 Rate: £80 - £83 per hour

Overview

Are you an experienced SC Cleared Data Analyst with a strong background in aerospace or defence?

We are looking for a Principal Data Analyst to join a cutting-edge programme within the Edgewing business, supporting a greenfield site where you'll play a critical role in shaping data capability from the ground up.

This is a fast-paced, high-impact environment where your expertise will directly influence how aircraft sensor data is analysed, optimised, and transformed into actionable insight.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design and delivery of advanced analytics solutions across a greenfield data environment
Analyse and interpret aircraft sensor data to drive performance improvements and operational insights
Improve data quality, optimise performance, and reduce false positives in analytical outputs
Develop and maintain dashboards, reporting, and automated data workflows using SQL and modern tools
Collaborate with engineers, analysts, and business stakeholders within the Edgewing ecosystem
Define and implement robust data governance, security, and compliance standards
Influence strategic decisions through clear, data-driven storytelling
Mentor junior analysts and contribute to building a high-performing data team
Operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment, adapting to changing priorities

Key Skills & Experience

Proven experience as a Data Analyst within aerospace, defence, or similar high-assurance environments
Strong understanding of aircraft systems and sensor data
Experience working in or with the Edgewing business (highly desirable)
Advanced SQL and data warehousing expertise
Strong data visualisation skills (Power BI, Tableau)
Demonstrated ability to improve data performance and analytical accuracy
Experience reducing false positives and enhancing data reliability
Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
Ability to work collaboratively with both engineers and analysts

Core Expertise (Must-Have)

MOD experience
Active SC Clearance
Strong background in aerospace data and systems
Data modelling and dashboard design for scalable, future-proof solutions
Expertise in data validation, QA, and data quality improvement
Experience in cloud or hybrid data environments and data warehousing
Deep understanding of data security, ethics, and privacy
Experience managing workloads across multidisciplinary teams
Familiarity with Agile and/or DevOps methodologies

Why Apply?

Join a greenfield programme with real influence over data strategy and architecture
Work on cutting-edge aerospace and defence projects within the Edgewing environment
Play a key role in improving mission-critical data performance and accuracy
Flexible hybrid working with potential for reduced onsite requirements