Data Architect

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is on a mission to transform how data powers the services that over 750,000 Seattle residents rely on every day. We’re looking for an innovative and visionary Data Architect (SA3) to lead this transformation, ensuring that our data not only drives operational excellence but also stays secure, accurate, and accessible. In this role, you will spearhead SPU’s One Seattle Data Strategy and the SSTP Data Infrastructure, Integration, and Business Intelligence Initiative, where your expertise will help guide how we manage, protect, and share data to improve city services both now and in the years to come.
 
As the Data Architect, you will have the opportunity to build a cutting-edge data platform that integrates diverse data sources—from operational systems to enterprise applications—into one powerful, cohesive system. Your work will unlock deeper insights into business operations and customer information, helping SPU make smarter, data-driven decisions. You will also play a key role in incorporating advanced data architecture and management into the delivery of SPU’s Tech CIP Portfolio projects, ensuring that data governance, security, and innovation are at the heart of everything we do. Join us in shaping the future of Seattle’s public utilities with data solutions that make a real impact!

About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.
  
  For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout the:

• SPU Website 
• Strategic Business Plan 

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities. 

We know work isn't only about what you do it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities (As Appropriate)
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free Orca Pass
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities

Key duties of this position include:

• Develop and implement SPU One Seattle Data Strategy that supports the city’s vision to leverage data for better, more equitable outcomes for residents
• Design and deliver a Data Governance Framework that establishes effective data architecture and integration principles, policies, data quality management, and other framework elements as identified by data management standards or best practices (DMBoK)
• Develop and lead the SSTP Data Infrastructure and Business Intelligence Initiative that will focus on developing and implementing a robust data architecture and enterprise-wide platform that integrates multiple systems, enhancing SPU’s analytic capabilities
• Assess and improve data platform architecture, design, data modeling, integration, standards documentation and performance requirements for data platforms and applications
• Integrate data management into SPU’s Technology Roadmap and Tech Capital Improvement Projects, collaborating with stakeholders
• Oversee the planning and delivery of technology projects supporting SPU’s Data Strategies and implementing tools for data quality, stewardship, and compliance
• Develop policies governing data ownership, stewardship, quality, and access
• Establish a data governance structure that includes key stakeholders within SPU
• Serve as SPU’s Data Champion, representing the department in citywide committees and collaborating with other stakeholders
• Advance data management principles through stakeholder engagement, change management, training, and communication
• Promote data transparency, accessibility, equity, and inclusion in all SPU data initiatives

Education: Bachelor's degree in computer science, data science, engineering or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

AND

Experience: Five (5) years of experience in a data architect, data management or a related role with a demonstrated track record of developing and delivering data strategies and programs and implementing large-scale data solutions.

• Strong knowledge of various database technologies (i.e., SQL), data integration (ETL/ELT application integration) frameworks, and cloud services (i.e., AWS, Azure)
• Experience with big data technologies (i.e., Hadoop, Spark) and data streaming services (i.e., Kafka) 
• Proficient in a programming language such as Python, Java, or others 
• Expertise in data modeling and data warehousing principles including an understanding of transactional schema, normalization/denormalization, star schema, snowflake schema, etc.

Desired Experience:
Eight (8) years of experience in a data architect, data management or a related role with a demonstrated track record of developing and delivering data strategies and programs and implementing large-scale data solutions.

• Solid understanding of data security principles and best practices, privacy laws and regulations
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear and actionable guidance for various stakeholders and executive leadership
• Knowledge of utility operational and information technologies
• Ability to balance competing priorities, multiple workstreams, and deliver results within resource constrained environments
• Strong oral and written communication skills with ability to convey technical information to non-technical staff or customers
• Proven ability to proactively solve problems and recommend solutions. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills

This position allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Effective January 2025, City employees will have the option to work remotely two days per week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.  

Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.  
  
 The full salary range for this position is: $124,758.00 - $187,105.68 Annually, ($59.75 - $89.61 per hour)

How to Apply:

• Submit complete City of Seattle online application 
• Upload your current resume, AND
• Include a cover letter that addresses your knowledge, experience, and interest related to this position

*** You must submit both a resume and cover letter. If you do not submit these documents, your application will not be considered. Please ensure that BOTH documents have successfully been uploaded before submitting your application. *** 

For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact: Ernest Stephens at Ernest.Stephens@Seattle.gov. 

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. 

More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans 

Salary : $124,758 - $187,106