Data Analyst

Job Title: Sr. Data Analyst Location: Arlington, VA Employment Type: Full-Time Contract Position Summary FTS is seeking a seasoned Sr. Data Analyst to define and manage the enterprise data framework supporting our Insurance & Financial Services (I&FS) solutions. This position will oversee the structure, documentation, and governance of critical business data to enable operational efficiency, strategic decision-making, and compliance with regulatory requirements. The role requires expertise in data management, integration, and governance practices, coupled with the ability to lead complex, multi-disciplinary initiatives. Key Responsibilities • Design and maintain an enterprise-wide data architecture and governance framework that supports I&FS solution implementation and ongoing operations. • Work with governance teams to ensure that essential business data is consistently defined, standardized, and documented in alignment with strategic objectives. • Partner with business and technical leaders to define solution architecture, establish data standards, determine integration methods, and oversee governance throughout the Solution Lifecycle (SLC). • Lead large, cross-functional data projects, coordinating resources across business, data, and IT domains to meet project goals. • Ensure that all IT deliverables incorporate data management best practices, including requirements gathering, design, testing strategies, and validation protocols. • Build and maintain a central framework for shared data definitions, business logic, data flows, integrations, and metadata (policies, definitions, lineage, etc.). • Protect sensitive and confidential information in line with organizational policies and HIPAA privacy/security requirements. Required Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Management Science, Business Administration, or a related discipline (Master’s preferred). • At least 8 years of experience in systems or data analysis, ideally in employee benefits, insurance, or financial services. • 6+ years working with distributed or cloud environments involving significant data exchange and integration. • 4+ years in solution delivery using both agile and waterfall methodologies; experience supporting organizations moving from waterfall to agile is advantageous. • Hands-on knowledge of Microsoft data management tools (SQL Server Management Studio, SSIS, etc.) preferred. • Familiarity with NoSQL platforms such as MongoDB or DynamoDB is a plus. • Proven track record implementing governance frameworks, defining standards, and ensuring integration compliance with those standards. Required or In-Progress Certifications • Data management certification such as CBIP (TDWI) or CDMP (DAMA). • Architecture certification such as TOGAF-9 Foundation, TOGAF Business Architecture Foundation, or equivalent. Skills • Deep understanding of data management concepts, including structuring and managing datasets from 10K to over 5M rows. • Knowledge of data integration design patterns, best practices, and transaction management (e.g., concurrency control, rollback). • Ability to align diverse business, data, and technology stakeholders to deliver quality solutions. • Adept at promoting and implementing innovative approaches that strengthen data and system capabilities. • Skilled at managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment without sacrificing accuracy. • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact with varied audiences. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) and experience with MS Visio and Access. • Commitment to providing excellent service through collaboration, responsiveness, and relationship-building.