Data Architect

SPA EXTERNAL POSITION POSTING (Dates Posted: 07/02-07/16/2026) Position Summary The Data Architect is responsible for designing, deploying, and managing M.U.D.'s data architecture framework. This role defines how data is collected, integrated, and maintained to ensure it is secure, reliable, and accessible. By bridging the gap between business requirements and technical execution, the Architect develops blueprints for data management systems ranging from relational databases to cloud data lakes ensuring that all solutions are scalable and aligned with the long‑term digital strategy. Education Associate's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (plus significant experience and relevant certifications may be considered) Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (plus seven (7) years of experience as indicated below) Master's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (plus five (5) years of experience as indicated below) Minimum Requirements Minimum of 7 years of experience specializing in the design and optimization of enterprise‑scale data environments Minimum of 5 years of experience using UML modeling and competent with industry standard methodologies such as RUP, plus a Master's Degree as indicated above Associate's Degree candidates with demonstrated significant experience and relevant certifications may be considered Preferred experience with portal, web, and application server environments Licenses, Certifications and/or Testing Valid driver’s license upon hire Pre‑employment background check and drug screen upon hire Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Understanding of Master Data Management (MDM) principles, data stewardship models, and data lineage requirements (Advanced proficiency) Understanding of global data privacy and financial regulations, including GDPR, SOX, and HIPAA, specifically as they apply to ERP environments (Advanced proficiency) Ability to translate business functional requirements (Finance, Supply Chain, Procurement) into scalable technical blueprints (Advanced proficiency) Knowledge at domain level and supports change management and business adoption of technologies (Advanced proficiency) Skilled in producing high‑level Architecture Decision Records (ADRs), technical design documents, and data dictionaries (Advanced proficiency) Proficiency in managing complex data migrations with a focus on zero‑data‑loss validation and rollback planning (Advanced proficiency) Proficiency in tuning HANA data models and optimizing pipeline designs to reduce processing time and latency (Advanced proficiency) Integration Architecture: Knowledge of API‑based integration patterns, ETL/ELT design, and the SAP BTP Integration Suite (Advanced proficiency) Deep knowledge of conceptual, logical, and physical data modeling, including specialized SAP frameworks like CDS Views and HANA Native Modeling (Advanced proficiency) Comprehensive understanding of SAP S/4HANA architecture, SAP BW/4HANA, SAP Datasphere, and SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) (Advanced proficiency) Ability to guide and develop the technical skills of junior engineers and analysts through architectural reviews and knowledge sharing (Advanced proficiency) Ability to lead and communicate effectively across diverse teams, including Basis administrators, security teams, and functional consultants (Advanced proficiency) Ability to collaborate with C‑level executives to align data architecture roadmaps with long‑term organizational goals (Intermediate proficiency) Expert‑level knowledge of UML modeling and iterative development lifecycles such as RUP (Rational Unified Process) (Intermediate proficiency) Efficient written and verbal communication skills, in English, to assist internal and external customers, co‑workers and management professionally, regardless of provocation (Intermediate proficiency) Ability to listen, comprehend and effectively document business needs (Intermediate proficiency) Demonstrated problem solving, and critical thinking skills (Intermediate proficiency) Works well with others to achieve common objectives (Intermediate proficiency) Capability of organizing and prioritizing multiple tasks and requests to meet deadlines (Intermediate proficiency) Must be available for scheduled assignments outside of business hours (Intermediate proficiency) Requirements of the job necessitate availability to respond to and support critical systems 24x7x365 within reason. Candidate is expected to work in or around the Districts service area (Intermediate proficiency) Essential Functions Design and maintain conceptual, logical, and physical data models that align with SAP best practices and organizational goals Create comprehensive data blueprints using UML modeling (class diagrams, sequence diagrams) to visualize data flows and system interactions Define and enforce data architecture standards, including naming conventions, CDS views, and HANA‑native modeling frameworks Translate business objectives into a scalable technical roadmap, ensuring the data landscape can support future growth and S/4HANA implementations Tune the SAP HANA in‑memory database and optimize data models to ensure high‑speed reporting and minimal processing latency Lead the transition of legacy data structures into modern, cloud‑based or hybrid environments while maintaining data integrity Implement and maintain a robust data dictionary and data lineage documentation to ensure auditability and traceability Engineer role‑based access controls (RBAC), data masking, and encryption strategies to protect sensitive information within the SAP landscape Ensure all data architectural designs adhere to global regulatory standards such as GDPR, SOX, and HIPAA Establish frameworks to ensure one version of the truth across the enterprise, focusing on data consistency and quality Oversee the data development lifecycle using RUP (Rational Unified Process), ensure iterative refinement from inception to transition Act as the bridge between senior leadership, functional consultants, and IT teams to resolve architectural conflicts and align priorities Plan and execute data migrations with zero‑data‑loss strategies, including rigorous rollback and validation protocols Conduct architecture reviews and mentor IT staff to ensure all technical output meets established enterprise standards Proactively train other IT resources to further develop their understanding of SAP application and business processes Shared responsibility with managers and directors within the IT department on developing goals, providing input related to performance appraisals, discipline, and 1 on 1 meetings for IT staff supporting projects the Data Architect is overseeing Have involvement in the hiring process for new Business Intelligence staff Act within the spirit of District and Department values Fulfill responsibilities common to all Supervisory, Professional, and Administrative positions as stated Required for All Jobs Perform a variety of other duties as assigned Understand and comply with all District policies and procedures In contributing to the objectives of the District, this role is responsible for the initiation, cultivation, and maintenance of strong relationships of a business and professional nature. This position requires good communication skills and tact in order to maintain professional relationships with the following, but not limited to: Board of Directors; All levels of District; Internal and external customers; Federal, State, and local agencies; Community organizations and partners; Consultants, contractors and other third‑party organizations that fall within the scope of this role; Professional, industry, trade, and civic associations. Physical and Environmental Requirements Office: Work is primarily performed in an office setting amid normal conditions of dust, odors, fumes, office lighting and noise. Hybrid Flexible Work Arrangement Job may be eligible for a hybrid in‑office and work from home flexible work arrangement. An Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran/Gender Identity/Sexual Orientation #J-18808-Ljbffr Metropolitan Utilities District