Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and build data models to meet strategic needs and support innovative solutions.
- Company: Join the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, a leader in technology strategy and architecture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical systems while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in data architecture and proficiency in database management systems required.
- Other info: Access excellent career development opportunities and a diverse, inclusive workforce.
The predicted salary is between 57515 - 80600 £ per year.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) Information Technology (IT) Strategy & Architecture function enables the organisation to deliver world-class services. It is a centre of excellence that is responsible for the technology strategy, delivering a broad portfolio of change to transform the Agency’s legacy technologies and deliver innovative new solutions designed around our customers’ needs.
The architecture team is responsible for the definition of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency technology strategy, the development of the solutions’ architectures required to realise this strategy and ensuring that architecture and technology principles are met and maintained. The role sits within a digital team of user-centred design and architecture and will focus on operational data for a variety of critical systems and change work.
Top Responsibilities- Collaborate with the Chief Data Architect to interpret business requirements and maintain consistency in data architecture across programmes.
- Participate in governance forums such as the Architecture Review Board and Data Governance Board to review, validate, and approve data models, metadata systems, and related artefacts.
- Identify and escalate data-related risks, blockers, or deviations from agreed standards to the Chief Data Architect, contributing to continuous improvement of data practices.
- Provide technical leadership and guidance to partner data architects and delivery teams, ensuring adherence to data architecture principles and standards challenging third-party designs where necessary.
- Define and maintain the enterprise data architecture, including data models, metadata, integration patterns, and business intelligence or data warehouse structures.
- Design and support the lifecycle management of data assets- including upgrade, decommissioning, and archiving- in compliance with data policy and architectural strategy.
- Ensure that data architecture artefacts are documented and maintained in the enterprise architecture repository, and that they remain compliant with MCA’s architecture strategy and principles.
- Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary.
- 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave).
- 8 Bank Holidays plus an additional Privilege Day to mark the King’s birthday.
- Access to the staff discount portal.
- Excellent career development opportunities and the potential to undertake professional qualifications relevant to your role paid for by the department, such as CIPD, Prince2, apprenticeships, etc.
- Joining a diverse and inclusive workforce with a range of staff communities to support all our colleagues.
- 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme providing free confidential help and advice for staff.
- Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance.
A data architect designs and builds data models to fulfil the strategic data needs of the organisation, as defined by the Chief Data Architect. As Senior Data Architect you will also deliver the vision for the organisation as set by the Chief Data Architect. You will also be instrumental in the definition of technology roadmaps that are aligned to business and IT strategy that support business change, and you will define the Master Data Strategy and the Data Archival Strategy for operational data.
You will need the following experience:
- Significant experience in data architecture, data modelling, database design, or a related area such as application architecture is expected.
- Expertise in data modelling tools and methodologies.
- Proficiency in database management systems (DBMS) like SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, and big data solutions using technologies such as no-SQL.
- Experience in using cloud services such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platforms.
The role is part of the Government Digital and Data (or Government Security Profession Career Framework) profession and utilises an enhanced Capability–Based Pay Framework which provides access to a Digital and Data allowance. The base pay is £57,515. In addition to this the role includes a Digital and Data allowance of up to £22,885.
This vacancy closes at 23:55 on Sunday 30th November 2025.
Senior Data Architect in Southampton employer: Maritime & Coastguard Agency
Contact Detail:
Maritime & Coastguard Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Data Architect in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those already working at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your data architecture knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with data modelling tools and cloud services like AWS or Azure. We want to see how you can bring your expertise to the table!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! Think of examples where you've tackled data-related challenges in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to identify risks and contribute to continuous improvement, which is key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the MCA's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Data Architect in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the Senior Data Architect role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Include specific examples of your work in data architecture, modelling, and any relevant technologies. We want to see how you've applied your expertise in real-world scenarios.
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we love detail, clarity is key! Make sure your application is easy to read and straight to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and ensure your passion for the role shines through.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our amazing benefits!
How to prepare for a job interview at Maritime & Coastguard Agency
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
As a Senior Data Architect, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in data architecture and modelling. Brush up on your knowledge of database management systems like SQL Server and Oracle, and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Collaboration is key in this role, especially when working with the Chief Data Architect and governance forums. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teams in the past, focusing on your ability to interpret business requirements and maintain consistency in data architecture.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that assess your understanding of data architecture principles and standards. Review common data modelling methodologies and be ready to explain how you would approach challenges related to data integration and lifecycle management.
✨Demonstrate Continuous Improvement Mindset
The role involves identifying risks and contributing to the continuous improvement of data practices. Think of instances where you've identified issues in data processes and how you proposed solutions. This will show your proactive approach and commitment to excellence.