Data Architect

Data Architect

Freelance Home office (partial)
Ncounter

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and implement secure, scalable data architectures for critical Defence programmes.
  • Company: Specialist consultancy focused on National Security and Defence initiatives.
  • Benefits: Competitive daily rate of £750-850 and impactful work in a high-stakes environment.
  • Other info: Collaborate with senior stakeholders in a dynamic, fast-paced setting.
  • Why this job: Shape secure data capabilities and influence how organisations govern and utilise data.
  • Qualifications: Active DV clearance and strong experience in UK Defence data architecture.

Overview: Ncounter is supporting a specialist consultancy delivering into highly sensitive National Security and Defence programmes, now seeking a DV Cleared Data Architect to join a high-impact transformation initiative. This contract requires 3 days per week onsite on the South Coast.

Role: This role sits at the heart of complex, secure data environments, focusing on the design of scalable architectures that enable integration, governance, and analytics across mission-critical systems. You will work alongside senior stakeholders, optimisation leads and solution architects to ensure data structures are aligned to operational needs, while providing clear architectural direction within fast-paced programmes.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and implement secure, scalable data architectures across complex environments
  • Define data models, standards and integration patterns across platforms
  • Embed data governance, quality and compliance aligned to Defence standards
  • Align data structures with operational tools, systems and user requirements
  • Collaborate with solution architects and programme teams to deliver cohesive solutions
  • Support full lifecycle delivery, from requirements through to deployment

What We’re Looking For:

  • Active DV clearance is essential
  • Strong experience delivering data architecture within UK Defence or MOD environments
  • Proven background operating across multiple security classifications
  • Experience within consultancy or client-facing delivery roles
  • Knowledge of cloud data platforms, particularly Azure and AWS
  • Familiarity with data visualisation and analytics tooling such as Power BI or Qlik
  • Strong stakeholder engagement skills across technical and non-technical audiences

Contract Details:

This is a contract opportunity offering £750-850 per day, working on programmes where data architecture is critical to operational success. You will play a key role in shaping secure data capabilities while influencing how organisations structure, govern and utilise data at scale.

If you hold active DV clearance and are looking to take on a high-impact contract within Defence, please get in touch to discuss further.

Data Architect employer: Ncounter

Ncounter is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises innovation and collaboration within the National Security and Defence sectors. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to work alongside industry experts while contributing to high-impact transformation initiatives. The South Coast location provides a unique blend of professional challenge and quality of life, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Ncounter

Contact Detail:

Ncounter Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Data Architect

✨Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend meetups, webinars, or even casual coffee chats. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities that might not even be advertised.

✨Show Off Your Skills

Don’t just talk about your experience; showcase it! Create a portfolio or a personal website where you can display your projects, especially those related to data architecture. This gives potential employers a tangible sense of what you can do.

✨Tailor Your Approach

When reaching out to companies, make sure to tailor your message to each one. Highlight how your skills align with their needs, especially in Defence and National Security. Personalisation shows you’re genuinely interested and have done your homework.

✨Apply Through Our Website

We’ve got some fantastic opportunities listed on our website, so don’t miss out! Applying directly through us not only streamlines the process but also keeps you in the loop about any updates or new roles that pop up.

We think you need these skills to ace Data Architect

Data Architecture
Data Modelling
Data Governance
Cloud Data Platforms
Azure
AWS
Data Visualisation
Power BI
Qlik
Stakeholder Engagement
Compliance with Defence Standards
Integration Patterns
Analytical Skills
Client-Facing Delivery

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Data Architect role. Highlight your experience in data architecture, especially within Defence or MOD environments. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your active DV clearance and any relevant projects you've worked on that demonstrate your expertise in secure data environments.

Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your technical skills, especially with cloud platforms like Azure and AWS. If you’ve got experience with data visualisation tools like Power BI or Qlik, make sure to mention that too. We love seeing those skills in action!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get your application rolling!

How to prepare for a job interview at Ncounter

✨Know Your Data Architecture Inside Out

Make sure you’re well-versed in the principles of data architecture, especially within Defence environments. Brush up on your knowledge of secure, scalable architectures and be ready to discuss how you've implemented these in past roles.

✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills

Prepare examples that highlight your ability to engage with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Think about times when you’ve successfully communicated complex data concepts to diverse audiences and how that led to successful project outcomes.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Tools

Since the role involves tools like Azure, AWS, Power BI, and Qlik, make sure you can speak confidently about your experience with these platforms. If you have any recent projects or achievements using these tools, be ready to share them!

✨Understand the Importance of Data Governance

Be prepared to discuss how you’ve embedded data governance and compliance in your previous roles. Highlight your understanding of Defence standards and how you ensure data quality and security in your architectural designs.

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