Data Architect: Facts, Skills, and Next Paths

A Data Architect designs and maintains the high-level structure of an organization’s data systems. Day-to-day work includes creating data models, defining how data is stored and integrated, and choosing the right cloud platforms and big data tools to ensure data is accessible and reliable. This role involves collaborating with engineers, analysts, and business stakeholders to align the data architecture with company goals.

Core responsibilities include documenting comprehensive data models, participating in architecture discussions to drive solutions, and mentoring other data modelers. For example, at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, a Lead Data Architect creates data models and uses Snowflake, while at Banner Health the architect operates the data platform that powers decision-making across a large health system. The architect also builds data pipelines, manages data governance and quality, and ensures the architecture supports both current operations and future growth. The role typically sits within IT or a centralized data platform team.

The median salary for Data Architects is approximately $179,999. The most frequently requested skills in current job postings are Data Governance and Data Architecture (both 70%), followed by Cloud Platforms, Data Integration, Big Data Technologies, and Data Quality (each 50%).