Databricks Architect

Databricks Architect

We're growing rapidly and are looking for a senior-level data architect to help us design and build a large-scale cloud-based data lake. If you love orchestrating complex data pipelines from multiple source systems into a well-designed data lake structure, then CGI is the place for you. The Databricks Architect is responsible for designing and governing an enterprise-grade Lakehouse architecture on Databricks. This role leads end-to-end solution design—from data ingestion and modeling through performance optimization, governance (Unity Catalog), reliability, and cost control—while enabling analytics, AI/ML, and self-service data capabilities at scale. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing robust and scalable data architectures and ETL solutions and require deep expertise in Databricks for data processing and Lakehouse architecture. This role offers a unique blend of hands-on coding, technical leadership and strategic influence. You will inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and drive continuous improvement within your team, making a tangible impact on how our client leverages data to unlock growth and competitive advantage. If you thrive in a fast-paced, evolving landscape and are passionate about harnessing data to solve complex business challenges, this is the role for you. Growth at CGI is driven by your goals, so if you're looking for an inclusive place where you're empowered to chart your own path, then we'd love to meet you.

This role is open to candidates in St. Louis, MO, Minneapolis, MN or Des Moines, IA only, who are willing to work on-site hybrid.

Your future duties and responsibilities

• Provide technical and architectural guidance on Databricks, modern data platforms, and cloud-native solutions to both clients and internal team members.
• Design and implement scalable data architectures using Databricks, with hands-on experience in specific platform features such as Delta Lake, Uniform (Iceberg), Delta Live Tables, and Unity Catalog.
• Lead and mentor engineering teams, fostering a culture of learning and innovation, while driving best practices in data management and performance optimization.
• Engage with clients to understand their business challenges and deliver solutions that align with their goals, utilizing Databricks' capabilities to enhance outcomes.
• Demonstrate hands-on technical leadership in designing and developing different components of a Data Lakehouse platform to meet client's business needs.
• Deepen CGI's presence in the market by developing proposals, SOWs, and strategies to grow our footprint within existing accounts.

Required qualifications to be successful in this role

• 10+ years of experience in data engineering or architecture, including 5+ years of direct experience designing end-to-end solutions leveraging Databricks on cloud services, with proficiency in Apache Spark, Databricks SQL, Delta Lake & Lakehouse Architecture, Unity Catalog, Python, and Scala.
• Expertise in Databricks Platform- Deep understanding of Databricks architecture, clusters, notebooks, and workspace management. Experience with Unity Catalog, Databricks Repos, Jobs API, and Workflows.
• Data Engineering & ETL Development- Ability to design and implement scalable ETL pipelines using Databricks and Spark.
• Cloud Platforms- Hands-on experience with Azure, AWS, or GCP integrations with Databricks.
• Data Modeling- Expertise in designing logical and physical data models for analytics and reporting.
• Data Governance & Security- Familiarity with Unity Catalog, role-based access control, and compliance standards.
• Performance Tuning- Ability to optimize Spark jobs, cluster configurations, and storage for cost and speed.
• Hands-on Development- Ability and willingness to code and troubleshoot critical issues under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated Experience- Proven track record of successfully delivering multiple complex, enterprise-scale projects leveraging Databricks, including end-to-end solution design, implementation, and optimization.

Desired Skills:

• Databricks Data Engineering Professional certification
• Designing and implementing data pipelines in Azure Data Factory
• Experience with DevOps principles including CI/CD, unit testing, and Agile methodologies
• Experience with metadata management, data cataloging, and data mesh domain architecture
• Exposure to Databricks migration tooling (e.g., Lakebridge) and cross-tenant/region governance strategies

Compensation and benefits

CGI is required by law in some jurisdictions to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. The determination of this range includes various factors not limited to skill set, level, experience, relevant training, and licensure and certifications. To support the ability to reward for merit-based performance, CGI typically does not hire individuals at or near the top of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range for this role in the U.S. is $88,200.00 - $214,600.00. CGI's benefits are offered to eligible professionals on their first day of employment to include: Competitive compensation, Comprehensive insurance options, Matching contributions through the 401(k) plan and the share purchase plan, Paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick time, Paid parental leave, Learning opportunities and tuition assistance, Wellness and Well-being programs

What you can expect from us

Together, as owners, let's turn meaningful insights into action. Life at CGI is rooted in ownership, teamwork, respect and belonging. Here, you'll reach your full potential because… You are invited to be an owner from day 1 as we work together to bring our Dream to life. That's why we call ourselves CGI Partners rather than employees. We benefit from our collective success and actively shape our company's strategy and direction. Your work creates value. You'll develop innovative solutions and build relationships with teammates and clients while accessing global capabilities to scale your ideas, embrace new opportunities, and benefit from expansive industry and technology expertise. You'll shape your career by joining a company built to grow and last. You'll be supported by leaders who care about your health and well-being and provide you with opportunities to deepen your skills and broaden your horizons. Come join our team—one of the largest IT and business consulting services firms in the world.