Data Architect (Only Visa Independent Candidates)

Job Title: Data Architect Location: McLean, VA (Remote work is Allowed) Type: Contract Job Description: The Data Architect will be a key contributor to designing, evolving, and optimizing our company's cloud-based data architecture. This role requires a strong background in data engineering, hands-on experience building cloud data solutions, and a talent for communicating complex designs through clear diagrams and documentation. Must work EST hours. Core Responsibilities • Cloud Data Architecture Design & Strategy: Design and implement secure, scalable cloud-based data pipelines, data warehouses, and data lakes. • Drive the selection and integration of cloud data services (e.g., storage, databases, analytics tools). • Develop comprehensive cloud data strategies in alignment with business goals. • Diagramming & Documentation: Produce clear and informative visual diagrams (e.g., data flow diagrams, entity-relationship diagrams, system architecture diagrams) to guide implementation and knowledge sharing. • Maintain detailed documentation of data architecture, design decisions, and processes. • Hands-on Implementation & Optimization: Actively contribute to the hands-on implementation of cloud data solutions. • Proactively identify and implement performance optimization strategies for cloud data systems. Required Qualifications • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, or a related field. • Minimum of 5 years of hands-on data engineering experience using distributed computing approaches (Spark, Map Reduce, DataBricks) • Proven track record of successfully designing and implementing cloud-based data solutions in Azure • Deep understanding of data modeling concepts and techniques. • Strong proficiency with database systems (relational and non-relational). • Exceptional diagramming skills with tools like Visio, Lucidchart, or other data visualization software. Preferred Qualifications • Advanced knowledge of cloud-specific data services (e.g., DataBricks, Azure Data Lake). • Expertise in big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark). • Strong understanding of data security and governance principles. • Experience in scripting languages (Python, SQL). Additional Skills • Communication: Exemplary written and verbal communication skills to collaborate effectively with all teams and stakeholders. • Problem-solving: Outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills for complex data challenges. • Teamwork & Leadership: Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and demonstrate potential for technical leadership.