Senior Enterprise Data Architect

Job Title: Enterprise Data ArchitectDuration: 6 months (with potential extension to 12 months)Work Schedule: On-site, 4 days per week (Monday to Thursday) in HoustonOverviewThis role is critical to establishing a scalable, secure, and governed data foundation that enables data driven decision making and long term business value. The Senior Enterprise Data Architect partners closely with business data stakeholders, data product teams, and cross functional technology teams to ensure alignment between data architecture and business objectives.ResponsibilitiesDefine and maintain the enterprise data architecture strategy including data models, integration frameworks, governance standards, and data lifecycle management in support of the customer's business goalsCollaborate with business data stakeholders and data product teams to translate business needs into technical data solutions aligned to business valueDevelop and maintain conceptual, logical, and physical data models to ensure consistency and scalability across the enterpriseEstablish and enforce data governance processes including data quality, security, compliance, and metadata managementLead architectural reviews to ensure adherence to enterprise data architecture standards and best practicesIdentify opportunities to optimize the data landscape by reducing redundancy, improving integration, and increasing accessibilityEnable reuse of data assets, schemas, and patterns to improve efficiency and accelerate deliveryEvaluate emerging data technologies such as cloud native data platforms, artificial intelligence driven analytics, and real time data processing through proof of concept initiativesManage enterprise data architecture tools and repositories such as data catalogs and metadata platformsAct as a bridge between data product teams, solution architects, and business stakeholdersDrive a Data Architecture Community of Practice to promote collaboration and industry thought leadershipDevelop and document data architecture standards and guidelines for enterprise useCommunicate data strategy and business drivers clearly to technical and non technical audiencesManage the enterprise data portfolio including recommendations for platform upgrades, training, and new technology adoptionSupport the customer's Emergency Operation Plan by ensuring data availability and integrity during critical operationsRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field from an accredited institutionMinimum of twelve years of information technology experience with at least seven years in data architecture or enterprise data management rolesTOGAF certification requiredDeep expertise in data architecture best practices, data modeling, governance, and integration standardsExperience collaborating across business units, data engineering, security, and infrastructure teamsExperience with enterprise data management tools such as Collibra, Informatica, Alation, or similar platformsStrong knowledge of cloud data platforms including AWS, Azure, or Google CloudFamiliarity with data governance frameworks and regulatory compliance requirements such as GDPR or CCPAExperience using data modeling tools such as ERwin, PowerDesigner, or similarStrong analytical and problem solving skills related to complex data challengesPreferred QualificationsMaster's degree in a related fieldExperience in regulated industries such as electric or gas utilitiesExperience with change management, release management, and data lifecycle management practicesWork Environment and Physical RequirementsAbility to communicate effectively through written and verbal channels in person or via virtual collaboration toolsAbility to operate standard office equipment including personal computersAbility to work regular business hours with occasional additional hours as requiredAbility to perform effectively in a dynamic and evolving work environment