At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape data architecture and create models that drive impactful decisions.
- Company: Join AQA, a leader in assessment technology with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid work, 25-30 days annual leave, and excellent pension contributions.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Influence data architecture development and work on meaningful tech changes.
- Qualifications: Experience in data architecture or related fields with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88500 £ per year.
AQA is looking for two data architects to help build data architecture capability in Assessment Technology. This is a chance to join at an important stage, helping shape how data is understood, modelled, governed and used across complex assessment systems that support learners, schools and colleges.
Purpose of the Role
You will be part of a growing data architecture team, helping AQA move from one Data Architect to a broader team with stronger portfolio coverage. You will work across change programmes to translate business needs into clear data architecture direction, support delivery teams and help make sure data decisions are aligned to AQA strategy, governance and future technology opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Creating and shaping data architecture artefacts, including data models, data dictionaries and data flow diagrams that help teams understand how data is created, moved, transformed and used.
- Working with project, product, technical and business stakeholders to translate business capabilities into practical data requirements and explain complex data decisions in clear, accessible language.
- Supporting data strategy and governance by contributing to standards, policies and procedures, while helping teams make secure, consistent and well-informed data decisions.
What We Are Looking For
You will thrive in this role if you can combine strong technical data thinking with clear communication, curiosity and the confidence to influence decisions across business and technology teams. Experience producing and using architecture artefacts such as data models, data dictionaries, data flows or similar documentation, with the ability to understand, describe and connect domain-level data across systems or products. The ability to translate complex technical information into business-focused language and shape technical direction from business needs across a variety of stakeholders. A data architecture background is ideal, but adjacent experience in data engineering, solution or technical architecture with awareness of data governance frameworks, standards, policies and procedures, and clear architectural lens may also be suitable.
What's in It for You
This role gives you scope to influence how data architecture develops at AQA, while working on varied and meaningful technology change. You will work across a broad data landscape, including operational data, analytical data, insight, AI and machine-learning enabled opportunities. You will play a key role in change connected to reform, digital exams and future-facing data capability. You will gain exposure to a Microsoft and Azure environment, while applying architecture concepts that transfer across cloud platforms.
A 35-hour working week with flexible, hybrid working, 25 days' annual leave (rising to 30), plus Christmas closure days, and an excellent pension (up to 11.5% employer contribution).
Diversity and Inclusion Statement
At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes.
Data Architect employer: AQA
AQA is an exceptional employer that values innovation and collaboration, offering a dynamic work environment in Milton Keynes. With a strong commitment to employee growth, AQA provides opportunities to influence data architecture development while enjoying a flexible hybrid working model, generous annual leave, and an excellent pension scheme. Join a diverse team dedicated to shaping the future of assessment technology and making a meaningful impact in education.
