At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and governance of data architecture for impactful projects.
- Company: Join Railpen, a leader in pension fund management with a community-focused mission.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days leave, a generous bonus, and a solid pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a collaborative culture await you.
- Why this job: Shape the future of data solutions while making a difference in people's lives.
- Qualifications: Experience with MS SQL Server and a passion for data engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are pleased to present an exciting opportunity for a Data Architect to join our Data Architecture TSG team. This role is offered as Full Time Employee, with the benefit of hybrid working arrangements.
Who we are
Railpen is responsible for the safekeeping and investment of around £34 billion in assets and the administration of several pension schemes, including the Railways Pension Scheme, one of the UK's largest and longest established pension funds. Our heritage of looking after the pension needs of the rail industry and its employees gives us our name and our unique outlook on how we serve our members. Railpen takes a holistic view, focusing on how we serve members today and how we can positively impact the communities and the world they will retire into.
The role
The core purpose of the Data Architect role is to provide architectural leadership across Railpen’s data ecosystem, shaping the design, governance, and evolution of data platforms supporting Member Services, Finance, and Pension Investment Management (PIM). The role is responsible for defining and governing enterprise data architecture standards, including modelling approaches, integration patterns, and platform design, ensuring solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned to Railpen’s wider technology and AI strategy. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.
The person
- Strong experience with MS SQL Server (2016+) and Microsoft Fabric
- Proven ability to design business-focused data models
- Solid background in data warehousing, data integration, and ETL/ELT processes
- Good understanding of data usage across operational systems, reporting, and analytics
- Knowledge of the systems development lifecycle (SDLC) and delivery/design processes
- Experience designing and governing scalable, robust, and maintainable data solutions
- Ability to collaborate across teams and provide guidance to engineers
- Exposure to Python, Azure Data Factory, and Microsoft data stack (desirable)
- Strong communication skills to articulate technical concepts and project goals
- Passion for data engineering and staying current with industry trends
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality delivery
- Ability to manage multiple projects and work both independently and in teams
- Collaborative mindset aligned to integrity, community, and constructive challenge
What we can offer you
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous annual bonus plan
- Membership of the Railways Pension Scheme, a Defined Contributions arrangement under which you get a pension for life and a lump sum when you retire, based on your length of service and pay
- Life Assurance cover
- Employee assistance programme
- Health cash plan
Lifestyle
- Support for hybrid and flexible working
- Buy and sell holidays
- Give as you earn scheme
- Flexible half days leave
- Electric vehicle leasing
- Cycle to work scheme
Next Steps
Please apply by 5pm on Thursday 25th of June 2026. Railpen is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment, we value diversity and welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Data Architect employer: Railpen
Railpen is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its employees while managing a significant £34 billion in assets. With a strong commitment to hybrid working arrangements, generous benefits including 28 days of annual leave, and a focus on employee growth through collaborative projects, Railpen fosters a supportive and inclusive work culture. Joining our Data Architecture TSG team means being part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities we serve.
