Data Architect - Information Systems

Office of the Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias

Job Title: Data Architect - Information Systems
Division: Architecture
Union: N/A
Location: 115 S LaSalle St, Chicago, IL - Cook County
Salary: Salary commensurate with experience.
Benefits:

Attention : Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; the Office of the Secretary of State will not complete certification and/or sponsorship requests .

Overview:

Under the general direction, the Data Architect is responsible for designing, creating, deploying, and managing the organization's data architecture. This role includes defining how the data will be stored, consumed, integrated, and managed by different data entities and IT systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop robust database (or other data storage) designs that support efficient data storage, retrieval, and manipulation. This involves selecting appropriate database models, defining data relationships, and implementing indexing strategies to optimize performance.
• Analyze business processes, applications, and user needs to determine the structure of databases. This includes evaluating data volume, usage patterns, and future scalability requirements.
• Assess database implementation procedures to ensure they comply with internal and external regulations.
• Lead the setup and configuration of database management systems, ensuring optimal performance and integration with other enterprise information systems.
• Generate detailed reports and documentation on database architectures, models, and guidelines for management review. This includes presenting findings and recommendations to executive teams for strategic decision-making.
• Manage the process of migrating data from legacy systems to modern database solutions, ensuring data integrity, minimal downtime, and a smooth transition for users.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations of database systems, identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies, and apply optimizations. Troubleshoot and resolve issues as they arise.
• Proactively suggest enhancements to existing database systems and evaluate new technologies or features that could benefit the organization. This involves staying current with industry trends and best practices.
• Educate staff members through training and individual support.
• Offer support by responding to system problems in a timely manner.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

Specific Skills:

• Extensive experience in data modeling, data warehousing, and database design (both SQL and NoSQL technologies).
• Proficiency in big data technologies (Hadoop, Spark) and data processing frameworks.
• Knowledge of data governance, quality, and compliance standards (e.g., GDPR).
• Experience with ETL processes, tools, and data integration techniques.
• Skills in data visualization and reporting tools (PowerBI, Tableau).
• Familiarity with cloud data services and architectures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to address data challenges.
• Communication skills to liaise with IT teams and business stakeholders.
• Certification in data architecture or related technologies (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate).
• Understanding of machine learning and data science principles to support advanced analytics initiatives.
• Requires a valid Illinois driver's license and the ability to perform physical activities such as lifting, carrying, and pushing/pulling items weighing up to 50lbs.

Education and Work Experience:

Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to the completion of four years college, preferably with courses in computer science, management information systems, mathematics or statistics AND minimum of three years' experience as a Data Architect.

Application Process:

• Please visit to apply by completing the online application; you may also upload a resume or other attachments as needed .
• Preference will be given to Illinois residents in the hiring and selection process, in accordance with the Illinois Secretary of State Merit Employment Code.
• Questions regarding this posting or Illinois Secretary of State employment practices may be directed to Job Counselors at our Personnel offices in Chicago ) or Springfield ).

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be lawfully authorized to work in the United States .
Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital or veteran status, or the presence of a non-job-related medical condition or disability.