Data Architect

Data Architect job description

The Data Architect is responsible for designing and implementing scalable data solutions that support analytics, reporting, and data governance across the organisation. This role ensures data architecture aligns with business objectives, complies with New Zealand regulatory frameworks, and supports secure, reliable access to critical information assets.

Data Architect duties and responsibilities of the job

Key responsibilities of a Data Architect include:

Designing and maintaining data models, pipelines, and storage solutions to support enterprise-wide data needs

Defining data architecture standards, data governance frameworks, and integration strategies

Ensuring compliance with the NZ Privacy Act, ISO 27001, and other data protection and sovereignty requirements

Collaborating with business and technical teams to translate requirements into data architecture designs

Leading the development of data warehouses, data lakes, and real-time processing platforms

Supporting metadata management, data lineage, and master data management initiatives

Advising on data quality, security, and lifecycle management across structured and unstructured sources

Evaluating and recommending tools, platforms, and practices for data analytics and architecture

Documenting architecture decisions, data flows, and technical specifications for governance and audit

Data Architect job qualifications and requirements

A degree in data science, computer science, or information systems is required. Certifications in data architecture, cloud data platforms, or governance frameworks are advantageous.

Requirements include:

7+ years’ experience in data architecture, data engineering, or related roles

Proven experience designing enterprise-grade data platforms and integration solutions

Strong knowledge of cloud data services (e.g. Azure Data Factory, AWS Redshift, Google BigQuery)

Familiarity with New Zealand-specific data governance, privacy, and security requirements

Proficiency in data modelling, SQL, and data pipeline development tools

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills across business and IT functions

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Salary for Data Architect

160000 - 185000

25th percentile

160000

The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills.

50th percentile

170000

The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications.

75th percentile

185000

The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialised certifications.

Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or KiwiSaver.

Projected salaries for related positions

Job title

25th percentile

50th percentile

75th percentile

Business Intelligence Analyst

95000

110000

130000

Business Intelligence Developer

120000

135000

145000

Business Intelligence Manager

140000

155000

180000

Database Administrator

100000

115000

125000

Data Warehouse Consultant

110000

130000

145000

Data Scientist

120000

140000

160000

Senior Data Scientist

160000

180000

200000

Data Engineer

125000

135000

150000

Senior Data Engineer

160000

180000

200000

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