Data Architect

AI & Data Solutions Architect (CPG/Retail)Fractal is a strategic AI partner to Fortune 500 companies with a vision to power every human decision in the enterprise. Fractal is building a world where individual choices, freedom, and diversity are the greatest assets. An ecosystem where human imagination is at the heart of every decision. Where no possibility is written off, only challenged to get better. We believe that a true Fractalite is the one who empowers imagination with intelligence. Fractal has been featured as a Great Place to Work by The Economic Times in partnership with the Great Place to Work® Institute and recognized as a 'Cool Vendor' and a 'Vendor to Watch' by Gartner.Coverage: Multiple U.S. accounts (deep focus on 2–3 strategic clients)Travel: Frequent travel requiredLocation Preference: Dallas or Chicago (flexible based on candidate)Role OverviewWe're looking for a Principal AI & Data Solutions Architect to drive growth across our CPG/Retail portfolio in the U.S. This role sits at the intersection of thought leadership, solutioning, and hands-on technical execution.You will operate as a trusted advisor and AI/Data leader to clients—partnering closely with account teams to shape opportunities, define engineering roadmaps, and solve complex business problems using modern data and AI foundations.This is not a pure delivery role. The focus is on driving growth through technical depth, client engagement, and high-impact solutioning, with selective involvement in execution when needed. You'll work deeply with 2–3 strategic clients, while supporting a broader set of accounts across the region.ResponsibilitiesClient Leadership & GrowthAct as a trusted technical advisor to client stakeholders across AI, data, and engineeringDrive account growth through thought leadership, proactive idea generation, and solution shapingPartner with account and sales teams during pre-sales, including discovery, solutioning, and proposal developmentTranslate business problems into scalable, high-impact AI/data solutionsSolution Architecture & Engineering LeadershipDefine and drive end-to-end data and AI architecture (data platforms, pipelines, ML/AI systems, AIF)Develop engineering roadmaps aligned to client business objectivesDesign scalable, enterprise-grade solutions across data platforms, cloud ecosystems, and AI/ML frameworksEnsure solutions balance performance, scalability, cost, and maintainabilityHands-On Technical LeadershipGo beyond strategy—operate at depth when required (architecture reviews, solution design, problem-solving)Step into delivery challenges when needed and help unblock teamsGuide and mentor architects and engineering teams across global deliveryCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with:Account leaders and sales teamsIndia-based delivery teamsData science, engineering, and platform teamsAct as the bridge between business, solutioning, and executionTechnology & InnovationStay current with advancements in AI, data engineering, and cloud technologiesDrive adoption of modern data platforms, multi-cloud architecture, and AI frameworksEvaluate and introduce new tools, frameworks, and acceleratorsQualificationsCore ProfileDeep technologist with strong expertise in data engineering, AI/ML, and solution architectureProven ability to operate in a client-facing, consultative roleStrong mix of:Pre-sales / solutioningTechnical leadershipHands-on problem solvingExperience~15–20 years of experience across: Data engineering and platform architectureAI/ML or advanced analytics environmentsEnterprise solutioning and consultingStrong experience working with global clients in a consulting or services environmentExposure to CPG/RetailTechnical SkillsExpertise in:Data platforms (data lakes, warehouses, modern data stack)Distributed processing (Spark, etc.)AI/ML ecosystems and AIF conceptsStrong experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP)Programming experience in Python, PySpark, Java, or ScalaSolid understanding of:Data modeling, ETL/ELTData governance, security, and complianceLeadership & CommunicationStrong ability to translate business problems into technical solutionsExcellent client communication and executive presenceAbility to influence without authority across client and internal teamsPay:The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Fractal, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is: Up to $200,000. In addition, you may be eligible for a discretionary bonus for the current performance period.Benefits:As a full-time employee of the company or as an hourly employee working more than 30 hours per week, you will be eligible to participate in the health, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability plans in accordance with the plan documents, which may be amended from time to time. You will be eligible for benefits on the first day of employment with the Company. In addition, you are eligible to participate in the Company 401(k) Plan after 30 days of employment, in accordance with the applicable plan terms. The Company provides for 11 paid holidays and 12 weeks of Parental Leave. We also follow a "free time" PTO policy, allowing you the flexibility to take the time needed for either sick time or vacation.Fractal provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!