Data Architect

We are seeking an experienced Data Architect to lead a large-scale database modernization and consolidation initiative. The program involves unifying multiple Microsoft SQL Server database schemas (34 independent schemas) into a single, optimized schema, and migrating from on-premises SQL Server environments to Azure SQL Database services. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in database schema design, stored procedures, data modeling, and cloud-based modernization, with a strong ability to identify common patterns, integrate schemas, and optimize performance in the cloud.Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the database consolidation strategy, unifying 3–4 disparate SQL Server schemas into a single, well-designed schema.
• Perform data analysis to identify common columns, overlapping structures, and integration patterns across databases.
• Define and enforce best practices for schema design, stored procedures, indexing, and performance tuning.
• Drive the migration strategy from on-premises SQL Server to Azure SQL Database services (recommended: Azure SQL Database Managed Instance for compatibility and Azure SQL Database Hyperscale for scalability, depending on workload).
• Collaborate with application architects, data engineers, and business analysts to ensure schema consolidation aligns with business needs.
• Implement data migration plans, ensuring data integrity, consistency, and minimal downtime.
• Provide thought leadership on data modernization, cloud-native database optimization, and governance.
• Define and enforce data security, compliance, and access control in the Azure environment.
• Continuously monitor and optimize database performance post-migration.

Required Skills & Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in database architecture, schema design, and SQL Server development.
• Proven track record of consolidating multiple SQL Server schemas/databases into unified schema architectures.
• Expert in T-SQL, stored procedures, triggers, functions, and query optimization.
• Deep understanding of Azure SQL services, particularly:
• Azure SQL Database Managed Instance (best for lift-and-shift with full SQL Server compatibility).
• Azure SQL Database Hyperscale (for highly scalable modern workloads).
• Strong knowledge of ETL processes, data migration strategies, and data integration patterns.
• Experience with data modeling tools (ER/Studio, ERwin, etc.) and version control for database changes.
• Solid understanding of data governance, security, and compliance in cloud environments.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with cloud-native database modernization programs beyond lift-and-shift.
• Familiarity with Azure Synapse Analytics and Data Factory for complex data integration and transformation.
• Knowledge of DevOps for databases (CI/CD pipelines, automated deployments).
• Experience in large-scale enterprise modernization projects with measurable business impact.