“Big data.” We’ve all heard the term, and given the rapidly growing world of artificial intelligence, more data is available all the time. How can you combine big data and AI into a rewarding career? Consider pursuing a position as a big data architect/engineer.
What is a big data architect/engineer?
A big data architect/engineer is the mastermind behind a company’s data architecture—all the ways that an organization manages its data and turns it into business intelligence. A data architect must not only understand data models and storage requirements, but also how to make data accessible in ways that complement business goals yet keeps it safe. After all, for most companies, data is both their greatest asset and their greatest potential security risk. A big data architect/engineer must consistently scan the environment for potential threats, as well as opportunities to evolve data architecture to better meet a company’s needs.
In many ways, a big data architect/engineer serves as the bridge between all data stakeholders, which makes it a key leadership position. The data architect must be able to speak the business language of the C-suite and translate that into technical terms for developers so their work results in successful enterprise-level applications. At times, the data architect must deliver harsh doses of reality when ideas for using AI and data become too expensive or too complex. The data architect selects data management systems, develops and enforces policies for data hygiene and storage, and protects data in terms of security and privacy.
In short, as defined by DAMA International’s Data Management Body of Knowledge, a data architect “provides a standard common business vocabulary, expresses strategic requirements, outlines high-level integrated designs to meet those requirements, and aligns with enterprise strategy and related business architecture.”
What skills does a big data architect/engineer need?
Education-wise, data architects typically have degrees in information technology or computer science, and they often earn certifications in fields such as database management or data architecture, as well as data modeling, which is considered a separate but related discipline. Data modeling is primarily focused on creating visual representations of data systems.
The technical skills required for a data architect include knowledge of data modeling and data integration strategies, as well as of data and storage systems. SQL and Python programming skills are a must, along with familiarity with data warehousing; ETL (Extract, Transform, and Load) processes, which involve extracting data from various sources, transforming it into something useful, and making it possible to load such data for analysis; and a firm understanding of database security and myriad privacy regulations, which may vary based on location and industry. A data architect for a company with a global presence will need to stay abreast of privacy regulations in multiple countries. In addition to regulatory compliance, a data architect must also be aware of the many ethical considerations surrounding AI and the use of personal data.
Specific programs used by data architects/engineers include data modeling tools such as Visio, ERwin, and ER/Studio; database management systems, including Oracle, SQL Server, and MySQL; and ETL tools such as Informatica, Talend, and DataStage. You’ll also need to have experience with data visualization tools such as Tableau, QlikView, and PowerBI.
What is the job and salary outlook for a big data architect/engineer?
As with most AI jobs, the job outlook for big data architects/engineers is promising, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 8 percent growth in database administrator positions—including data architect positions—in the 10-year period between 2022 and 2032.
Specializing your data architecture knowledge in the areas of AI and big data will make you a more desirable candidate. Payscale.com reports that the average data architect salary is $131,027, and per Salary.com, the salary range for big data architects in the U.S. is between $149,027 and $183,470.
Remember, big data is only useful if you can wrangle it. If you can do that in the world of AI, you have a promising career ahead of you.
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