POSITION SUMMARY: The Data Architect is responsible for designing and implementing enterprise data architecture solutions that ensure seamless flow of data across systems for our organization and our customers. This role requires a data professional with capable of implementing modern data architectures while developing expertise in emerging technologies including AI/ML data pipelines, real-time streaming architectures, and data infrastructure to support autonomous agent systems. The Data Architect will design, create, deploy, and manage the organization's data architecture while ensuring data assets are aligned with business goals, secured appropriately, and optimized for both traditional analytics and emerging AI/Agentic workloads.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Primary Responsibilities:

· Design and implement secure, scalable, and efficient data architectures on cloud platforms, utilizing modern data lake, data warehouse, and Lakehouse patterns.

· Model datasets to support financial reporting initiatives, analytics, and growing AI/ML workloads.

· Implement data pipelines that support both batch and real-time streaming requirements.

· Build data infrastructure capable of supporting AI/ML model training, inference, and autonomous agent data access.

· Gain hands-on experience with vector database solutions and embedding storage for AI-powered applications.

· Support data mesh and data product initiatives that enable self-service data consumption.

· Learn and implement knowledge graph concepts and semantic layers that support AI reasoning.

· Create data integration processes ensuring seamless flow of data across enterprise systems.

Technical Leadership:

· Work closely with analysts, data scientists, and stakeholders to understand data requirements and translate business needs into robust, scalable data models.

· Implement data governance and quality processes to ensure data integrity and compliance with regulatory standards.

· Support data cataloging, lineage tracking, and metadata management initiatives.

· Learn and apply responsible AI data practices including bias detection, fairness, and explainability considerations.

· Optimize data architectures for high performance, cost efficiency, and operational excellence.

· Collaborate with IT security teams to ensure data architecture aligns with security policies and data protection requirements.

· Collaborate with data engineers and analysts, sharing knowledge on architectural best practices.

Stakeholder Management:

· Collaborate with management, customers, analysts, and IT teams to understand structural requirements.

· Support the definition of standards for storing, consuming, integrating, and managing data across the organization.

· Translate business data requirements into usable architectural blueprints.

· Communicate effectively with stakeholders regarding project status, data implementations, and delivery timeframes.

Other Responsibilities:

· Stay updated on the latest cloud data services, AI/ML data requirements, and emerging data technologies.

· Research data infrastructure requirements for Agentic Architecture and autonomous agent workloads.

· Evaluate vector databases, knowledge graphs, and semantic technologies for AI applications.

· Foster innovative team culture and process improvement during development phases.

· Contribute to organizational data governance and compliance frameworks.

· Other related duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

· Technical Skills :

o Demonstrated experience with data modeling techniques and warehousing principles, specifically schema design.

o Demonstrated experience with cloud data platforms (e.g. Azure Data Lake, Synapse, Databricks, Snowflake, AWS Redshift, BigQuery).

o Proficiency in SQL and programming languages such as Python, Scala, or Spark for data manipulation and transformation.

o Experience with real-time data streaming platforms (e.g. Kafka, Kinesis, Event Hubs, Pub/Sub).

o Knowledge of data integration patterns including ETL/ELT, CDC, and real-time synchronization.

o Familiarity with vector databases and embedding storage for AI applications, with willingness to learn.

o Experience with data governance tools, data catalogs, and metadata management platforms.

o Exposure to AI/ML data pipeline requirements and willingness to develop expertise in feature engineering practices.

o Awareness of knowledge graph technologies and semantic data modeling.

o Experience implementing data quality, observability, and lineage tracking solutions.

· Leadership and Soft Skills :

o Excellent communication and presentation skills.

o Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities.

o Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders across organizational levels.

o Strategic thinking with ability to align data architecture with business objectives.

o Skilled in mentoring others and fostering a culture of learning and growth.

o Ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.

o Intellectual curiosity and commitment to continuous learning.

o Early adopter mindset with proven ability to quickly master emerging technologies.

o Proactive in staying current on emerging technologies relevant to the role.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

· Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field;

· Typically, 5-7 years of experience in data architecture, data engineering, or analytics roles with focus on cloud data platforms.

· Proficient in data modeling techniques and data warehousing principles.

· Solid knowledge of modern cloud data services and their application to analytics workloads.

· Proficiency in SQL and experience with programming languages for data transformation (e.g. Python, Scala, Spark).

· Experience with data governance and quality processes.

· Exposure to AI and machine learning concepts and willingness to develop expertise in how data architecture supports AI initiatives.

· Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

o Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or related field

o Professional certifications in cloud data platforms (e.g. Azure Data Engineer, AWS Data Analytics, GCP Data Engineer, Databricks)

o Desire to specialize in AI/ML data architecture and develop expertise in this growing field

o Exposure to AI/ML data pipelines and feature stores

o Familiarity with vector databases and embedding management for AI applications

o Knowledge of data mesh concepts and data product design

o Awareness of knowledge graph technologies and semantic layer design

o Experience in regulated industries (financial services, healthcare, etc.)

o Familiarity with data privacy regulations (GDPR, CCPA) and compliance frameworks

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

· Ability to report to work in person and to attend work-related functions/activities.

· Ability to work at a desk and use a computer for extended periods.

· Ability to lift, carry, and move objects up to 10 pounds occasionally.

· Ability to occasionally travel as required.

· Ability to type and utilize various software programs efficiently and operate general office equipment.

· Ability to work in an office setting with moderate noise levels.

· Additional physical demands include, but may not be limited to, frequent talking or hearing, occasional push/pull, stoop/kneel, bend/twist, and reach to retrieve or move items in a typical office environment.

· Must be able to work scheduled hours and overtime as needed.

· Hybrid or remote work arrangements

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION : Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their position.

***All roles require periodic travel to Springfield, MA for company meetings, events, and team activities***

For over 25 years, Farm Credit Financial Partners, Inc. (FPI) has provided technology products and services to the Farm Credit System. We care deeply about the agricultural credit associations (ACAs) we serve through our mission of delivering trusted technology solutions to help American agriculture thrive. As a customer-owned service organization, we support ACAs from Maine to California with over 62,000 customer-members and over $40 billion in loan volume . Everyone here contributes to the success of our customers, and to the vibrant culture that makes FPI a great place to work. Throughout the year, you will find us having fun and jamming out to FPI’s band, coming together to support local charities, and celebrating our wins together.

We offer a robust benefits package that includes competitive earnings, hybrid and remote work options, tuition reimbursement, generous 401(k) matching, and development opportunities through company-sponsored trainings and certifications.

Come grow with us: financialpartners.com .

Salary is determined based on a range of factors, including relevant experience, specific skills, demonstrated knowledge, and abilities. We strive to offer equitable and competitive compensation that reflects each candidate’s unique qualifications. Compensation ranges are subject to change based on factors such as market data, industry trends, and internal equity considerations.

Farm Credit Financial Partners Inc., participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. Employers can only use E-Verify once a candidate has accepted a job offer to work in the U.S. and completed the Form I-9. For more information on E-Verify, please contact DHS: dhs.gov/e-verify

Farm Credit Financial Partners, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex or gender, religion, pregnancy, marital status, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO / Disabilities / Veterans

#FPI