Data Architect

Client: Photon
Position: Data Architect
Location: Newark, DE (Onsite)
Duration: Contract & Full time

We are looking for a seasoned Data Architect to help our customers bring structure and intentionality to its data ecosystem. The core challenge: transitioning from a SQL Server monolith (Atlas) and an unstructured Snowflake environment into a well-governed, entity-driven Operational Data Store. This role directly supports the client's Chief Data Architect and will be instrumental in laying the data foundation for AI and modernization efforts.

Key responsibilities

Assess the current state of SQL Server (Atlas) and Snowflake usage and identify structural gaps
Design a formal Operational Data Store (ODS) with a centralized data dictionary and key entity model
Define data architecture standards and governance practices aligned to domain-driven design
Map current batch data flows (Informatica/EDW) to FDR APIs as part of the batch-to-API migration roadmap
Collaborate with domain teams to model customer, loan, payment, and interaction data entities
Provide guidance on Snowflake best practices distinguishing analytical vs. operational usage
Serve as a thought partner to the client's internal data architect on all foundational data decisions

Must-have skills

10+ years in data architecture roles
Deep expertise in ODS design, data modelling, and data dictionaries
Hands-on experience with Snowflake (not just as a user)
Strong understanding of ETL/ELT pipelines and batch processing (Informatica experience a plus)
Experience in financial services or lending domain
Familiarity with API-based data integration patterns
Nice to have

Experience with FDR or similar loan servicing platforms
Knowledge of data mesh or domain-oriented data ownership models
Familiarity with AI/ML data pipeline requirements
Experience with data governance tooling (Collibra, Alation, etc.)
Background in student lending or consumer finance