Data Architect - (Active SC)

Data Architect (Active SC Clearance Required)

Location: London (Hybrid)
Clearance: Active SC essential
Type: Contract
Rate: 620 (Inside IR35)
6 Months

About the Role

Our defence client is seeking an experienced Data Architect to lead the design, governance, and implementation of modern data platforms across mission‑critical programmes. This is a high‑impact role where you’ll define enterprise-level data strategy, build scalable cloud architectures, and drive the adoption of advanced analytics and AI capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and deliver end‑to‑end data architectures across cloud and hybrid environments.
• Lead data modelling, governance frameworks, and solution roadmaps for large, secure environments.
• Architect and optimise data pipelines, lakehouses, and analytics platforms using Databricks.
• Drive integration of AI/ML capabilities into the data ecosystem to support advanced decision‑making.
• Collaborate with security, engineering, and programme teams to ensure compliance with defence standards.
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and architectural assurance across projects.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Active SC Clearance (mandatory)
• Proven background as a Data Architect within secure, complex, or defence environments
• Strong experience with Databricks, Delta Lake, and distributed data processing
• Expertise in data modelling, ETL/ELT design, and cloud-native architectures (Azure preferred)
• Demonstrable experience architecting data solutions that incorporate AI/ML capabilities
• Understanding of data governance, metadata management, and security best practices
• Ability to translate business requirements into robust technical designs

Desirable

• Experience in highly secure or regulated environments (Defence, Government, Aerospace)
• Knowledge of Snowflake, Spark, or real-time data streaming (Kafka, Event Hub)
• TOGAF or similar architectural frameworks

What’s on Offer

• Opportunity to work on nationally significant defence programmes
• Cutting-edge technology environment leveraging AI & cloud innovation