Senior Data Architect

About the role

The Senior Data Architect will lead Northeastern University’s transition from legacy data structures to a modern, scalable, AI‑ready architecture. This role assesses existing systems such as Banner, Workday, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Snowflake and Azure, and designs future‑state data models that enable analytics, automation and advanced AI/ML use cases.

Key responsibilities

• Assess current data structures and define a future‑state architecture aligned with AI, automation and analytics needs.
• Create conceptual, logical and physical data models across multiple domains and partner with data owners to deliver scalable data products.
• Design datasets and metadata structures that support vector search, RAG pipelines and agentic workflows.
• Lead ingestion architecture, streaming frameworks and API integrations while implementing data quality, lineage and governance practices.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to academic and administrative partners, communicating roadmaps and architectural decisions to ITS leadership.

Required profile

• 10+ years of progressive experience in data architecture, enterprise data modeling or data engineering.
• Proven experience modernizing legacy environments and designing cloud‑native, AI‑ready data architectures.
• Strong communication and data‑storytelling skills for senior leadership and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to drive cross‑functional alignment across distributed teams.

Required skills

• Deep knowledge of Snowflake, Azure SQL, Databricks or similar cloud data platforms.
• Proficiency with DBT, Fivetran, Informatica or equivalent ELT/ETL tools.
• Experience with event‑driven and API‑based integrations (Kafka, EventHub, microservices).
• Understanding of AI/ML components: vector databases, feature stores, RAG pipelines, metadata management.
• Expertise in data modeling (conceptual, logical, physical), master data management and data quality frameworks.

What we offer

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness, retirement and commuting support.
• Competitive salary range based on experience and qualifications.