IT Data Architect

Position Location: Needham, MA or Portsmouth, NH

Job Summary: The Data Architect will design, govern, and lead the implementation of Needham Bank's enterprise data architecture, including the bank's data model, cloud-based data platform, and core-to-cloud data integration strategy. This role is responsible for ensuring that data is trusted, well-modeled, well-governed, and usable across digital banking, analytics, risk, and regulatory reporting, while preserving the authoritative transactional system of record.

This is a strategic, hands-on role that blends architecture, modeling, governance, and delivery leadership.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1) Enterprise Data Architecture & Modeling

• Take an "Art of the Possible" approach to champion and deliver a fully capable data program

• Define and own the bank's data model.
• Create logical and physical data models aligned to industry standards.
• Establish clear boundaries between:
• System of Record, System of Engagement, and System of Insight

2) Data Platform Design

• Define data movement patterns from DNA and key SaaS systems into the enterprise platform.
• Ensure data designs support performance, security, auditability, and regulatory needs.

3) Master Data & Identity Strategy

• Define approach for Customer/Party master data, identity resolution, and cross-system mapping.
• Work closely with CRM, Core Banking, and fintech partners.
• Establish survivorship rules, golden record principles, and data reconciliation processes.

4) Data Governance & Lineage

• Define data ownership
• Build business glossary
• Establish data quality standards
• Ensure regulatory traceability for key data used in financial and risk reporting.

5) Integration & Core Strategy

• Define preferred patterns for integrating with bank core:
• CDC/event-first where possible, Batch extracts where required
• Reconciliation and exception handling
• Design mappings between core structures and the bank's data model.

6) Collaboration & Delivery Leadership

• Work closely with Data engineers, Application teams, Analytics team, Security & Risk, Compliance & Audit
• Translate high-level strategy into implementable roadmaps.
• Review designs, data models, and integration plans.
• Mentor junior data engineers and analysts.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• 8+ years of experience in enterprise data architecture
• 5+ years working with cloud data platforms (Azure strongly preferred)
• Deep experience in relational modeling (SQL Server / Azure SQL)
• Hands-on experience with: Azure SQL, Azure SQL Managed Instance and SQL Server, Azure Data Factory
• Experience with core banking or financial services data
• Strong understanding of OLTP, Data lakes and Event-driven integration

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Experience with Fiserv DNA or another core banking system
• Exposure to FIBO / FIB-DM or BIAN frameworks
• Experience with Salesforce, Snowflake, API Management a plus.
• Prior role in a bank, fintech, or highly regulated environment

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Normal business office environment
• Must be able to work flexible hours to address system upgrades or problem resolution
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Able to manage multiple projects and deliverables concurrently, keeping stakeholders and supervisors informed of progress
• Must be able to interact and communicate effectively across departments and executive management

PAY RANGE: $116,440.45 - $163,016.63

The pay range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the pay range for this job at the time of posting. Actual pay may vary based on experience, skills, and market factors; additional compensation may apply.

Needham Bank offers a competitive salary and an amazing benefit package for a full-time employee which includes fully paid medical and dental insurance, HRA, 401(k) plan with an 8% bank match, paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, a bonus program, flexible spending accounts, vision service plan, group term life insurance, short and long term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program. We offer a great benefit package to our eligible part-time employees as well.

At NB, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace - if you are excited about this role, but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Needham Bank is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Needham Bank will provide all applicants for employment and all employees with equal opportunity for employment and promotion regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, military service, sexual orientation, genetic information, or gender identity.