Director, Data Engineering & Architecture

Role Description

Salas O’Brien is building a next-generation Data & AI organization designed to transform how data is managed, governed, and leveraged across the enterprise. The Director of Data Engineering & Architecture is responsible for establishing and leading the enterprise data foundation that powers analytics, reporting, artificial intelligence, automation, and future digital innovation initiatives.

• Owns the enterprise data architecture strategy, data engineering function, information architecture framework, master data management capabilities, and technical implementation of data governance controls.
• Builds and leads a team of Data Engineers, Data & Information Architects, and Governance professionals.
• Partners closely with business leaders, Information Technology, Finance, Human Resources, Operations, and the broader Digital & AI organization.
• Leads the effort to integrate diverse technology landscapes and multiple sources of enterprise data into a scalable, secure, and trusted data ecosystem.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in data engineering, data architecture, or enterprise data management.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing technical teams and enterprise-scale initiatives.
• Demonstrated success designing and implementing modern enterprise data platforms.
• Experience integrating multiple enterprise systems and data sources within complex organizations.
• Strong understanding of data architecture, data engineering, master data management, information architecture, data governance, and data quality management.
• Experience building enterprise reporting, analytics, and data product capabilities.
• Strong business acumen and ability to align technical investments with organizational objectives.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Requirements

• Experience within professional services, engineering, consulting, construction, or acquisition-driven organizations.
• Experience leading data transformation initiatives in organizations with multiple operating companies or business units.
• Hands-on familiarity with Databricks, Delta Lake, Unity Catalog, Azure Data Services, Microsoft Fabric, or comparable platforms.
• Familiarity with graph databases and relationship-based data architectures.
• Experience supporting AI, machine learning, automation, and advanced analytics initiatives.
• Knowledge of compliance frameworks such as NIST, SOC 2, CMMC, GDPR, HIPAA, or similar standards.
• Experience developing enterprise data products and self-service analytics capabilities.
• Master’s degree in a related field.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources.
• Professional development and learning opportunities.
• Employee ownership participation.
• Additional benefits consistent with Salas O’Brien policies.