Data Architect

Gmca; Greater Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 54,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

GMCA is seeking a Data Architect to shape the organisation's data architecture and governance. You will design scalable data models, manage data warehousing concepts, and drive data integration across platforms to enable trusted, timely insights for decision-makers.

The role requires hands-on experience with SQL/NoSQL databases, cloud data services (Fabric, Synapse), and strong communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders. Hybrid working in Greater Manchester is available.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in data architecture roles.
• Experience designing and implementing complex data architectures.
• Knowledge of SQL and NoSQL databases and performance tuning.
• Hands-on with cloud data solutions (Microsoft Fabric, Synapse).
• Strong data modelling skills (conceptual, logical, physical).
• Understanding of data warehousing, ETL/ELT processes.
• Familiar with data governance, quality, lineage, and privacy regulations.
• Experience with data integration strategies, APIs, ETL and pipelines.
• Proficiency with BI tools and data reporting architectures.
• Ability to explain complex data concepts to diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the organisation's data architecture vision and strategy.
• Design data models and architectures to support reporting and analytics.
• Implement data governance, quality controls and privacy compliance.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure timely, accurate data delivery.

Skills

Data architecture

SQL/NoSQL databases

Cloud data solutions

Data modelling

ETL/ELT

Data governance

APIs & data pipelines

BI tools

Stakeholder communication

Tools

MS SQL

MySQL

MongoDB

Microsoft Fabric

Synapse

Power BI

Tableau

Job description

Data Architect

Permanent

£54,495-£59,113

Your role:

We're looking for a Data Architect to join the Digital team. You will set the vision for the organisation's use of data, through data design, to ensure data is managed properly and meets the organisation's needs. You will support GMCA's Digital Data and Technology (DDaT) strategy, enhancing our current data-driven capabilities for the future, providing a framework which supports delivery of quality, trust-worthy data to the right people at the right time in the right way.

About you:

• Considerable experience of working in a data architecture or equivalent role.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing complex data architectures, including data modeling, database design, and data integration.
• In depth knowledge of SQL and NoSQL databases (e.g., MS SQL, MySQL, MongoDB), including experience in database performance tuning and optimization.
• Hands on experience with cloud based data solutions and services with a particular focus on Microsoft Fabric and Synapse.
• Strong skills in conceptual, logical, and physical data modelling.
• Deep understanding of data warehousing concepts, design, and implementation; familiarity with ETL/ELT processes.
• Understanding of data governance practices, including data quality, data lineage, metadata management, and data privacy regulations.
• Experience in designing and implementing data integration strategies, including knowledge of APIs, ETL processes, and data pipelines.
• Knowledge of BI tools (e.g. Power BI, Tableau) and experience in designing data architectures that support reporting and analytics.
• Ability to effectively communicate complex data concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

About us:

As an employer, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) is made up of a number of key Greater Manchester strategic functions and service providers including; Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS); Waste and Resources; Environment; Work and Skills; Research; Public Sector Reform; Police, Crime and Criminal Justice; Homelessness; the Greater Manchester Ageing Hub and the Commissioning Hub.

We value the diversity of our employees, and aim to recruit a workforce which reflects our diverse communities across Greater Manchester. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified individuals, irrespective of people's age, disability, Trans status and Non-binary identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We have guidance in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability.

Mandatory Information:

Privacy Notice

Employees on the redeployment register will be given priority for any vacancies in the first instance. If employees are identified as a match from the register then the vacancy may be withdrawn or put on hold pending an outcome.

For this opportunity, you must be able to prove you have the right to work in the UK - if in doubt please visit the following link Employers' right to work checklist - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Please note we are not a licenced sponsor.

Hybrid working

This role is part of GMCA's hybrid working scheme. As part of our commitment to 'Build Back Fairer' in Greater Manchester following the Covid-19 pandemic, we have evolved our management methods by trusting and empowering staff to deliver their work in the best way that suits the business and their individual needs, and supports health and wellbeing. Our hybrid working policy sets out a flexible approach, combining attendance at our [Manchester city centre office / Fire and Rescue service HQ in Swinton / other location] with remote working, typically from home; the location of work is primarily dictated by the needs of the business: 'Do what is right for you and the business on that day'. If appointed to the role you will work with your manager to agree and regularly review the best working pattern for you, your team and your work.