Data Architect

Data Architect – Hybrid, Downtown Chicago (Direct Client, Contract-to-Hire) We’re seeking a Data Architect for a long-term, critical initiative with our direct client in downtown Chicago. This is a hybrid role (on-site 3 days a week) with strong potential to convert to full-time after 2026. About the Role: You’ll lead data architecture efforts for a large-scale Digital Process Automation / Client Onboarding & Maintenance program. This is a highly visible role working closely with product owners, enterprise architects, and offshore engineering teams to define and deliver scalable, secure, and governed data solutions. Key Responsibilities: • Lead the data architecture practice – defining best practices, governance standards, and target architecture. • Design and oversee data pipelines and integration from legacy systems into Snowflake (with exposure to Azure Data Lake/Databricks). • Collaborate with business/product owners and enterprise architects to ensure alignment with business needs and regulatory standards. • Guide API/data pipeline architecture, performance optimization, and automation. • Engage with data mesh teams as both data producer and consumer. • Ensure compliance with privacy, security, and data retention policies. • Be hands-on with pipelines in early phases until the team expands. Required Experience: • Proven data architecture leadership (governance, privacy, retention, trade-off decisions). • Strong background in data engineering (ideally started as an engineer before becoming architect). • Expertise in Snowflake and cloud platforms (Azure preferred). • Experience with pipeline design, CI/CD, and infrastructure-as-code (Terraform/IaC). • Familiarity with TOGAF/C4 models and data mesh concepts. • Excellent stakeholder management and collaboration skills. Nice-to-Haves: • Experience with Databricks or Azure Data Factory. • Financial services industry background (preferred) or healthcare. • Cloud/data certifications. • Exposure to high-volume, low-latency systems. Location: Hybrid – Downtown Chicago Engagement: Contract-to-Hire (long-term, critical role) Vendors: Please do not reach out, have your candidate apply here. I will not response to your reach out for rate and Job description.