Data Architect

Ascend Learning, a leading healthcare and learning technology company, is the connection between a powerful portfolio of brands serving students, educators, and employers with outcomes-based, data-driven solutions across the lifecycle of learning. From testing to certification, Ascend Learning products are used by physicians, emergency medical professionals, nurses, allied health professionals, certified personal trainers, financial advisors, skilled trades professionals and insurance brokers.  

Headquartered in Burlington, MA, with additional office locations and hybrid and remote workers in cities across the U.S., Ascend Learning was recognized by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group as one of America’s 2025 Greatest Workplaces as well as America’s Best Places to work for Mental Well-Being for 2025.  

We're always looking for talented, passionate professionals to join us in our mission to help change lives. If this sounds like an environment where you'd thrive, read on to learn more.  

WHAT YOU’LL DO

As a Data Architect, you will design and deliver scalable, high-performance data solutions aligned to business objectives and internal client needs. You will lead data architecture strategy, modernize platforms, and ensure data systems are secure, reliable, and future-ready.

WHERE YOU’LL WORK

This position will work a hybrid schedule from our office location in Leawood, KS.

HOW YOU’LL SPEND YOUR TIME

Design Scalable Data Solutions

• Architect modern data ecosystems including cloud data warehouses, lakehouse platforms, and medallion architectures using dimensional models (Star/Snowflake).
• Develop and govern data models, frameworks, and standards for how data is structured, stored, accessed, and shared across the organization.
• Establish and maintain a centralized data dictionary.

Build and Evolve the Data Platform

• Assess and modernize existing data infrastructure, leading cloud migrations and architecture transformations.
• Design and maintain scalable data pipelines and integrations across systems using APIs and data tools.
• Implement DataOps/DevOps practices and automation to streamline and operationalize data workflows.

Drive Data Strategy and Collaboration

• Partner with business and technical stakeholders to define data strategies and deliver aligned solutions.
• Own architectural decisions and ensure quality, performance, and successful delivery of data initiatives.
• Build strong relationships across BI, product, engineering, and business teams.

Ensure Standards and Innovation

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to data teams.
• Enforce standards for security, compliance, performance, and cost management.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, including AI/ML, and incorporate innovations where appropriate.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• High school diploma or GED required. Bachelor’s degree in technology related field or equivalent work experience preferred.
• 6+ years’ experience with modern data platforms (e.g., SQL Server, Snowflake, Databricks, Azure Synapse/Fabric, Amazon Redshift).
• Strong expertise in data architecture, modeling (ERDs, dimensional modeling), and data integration across systems.
• Proficiency with data pipelines and transformation tools (e.g., Azure Data Factory, Coalesce, Snowpipe) and version control (e.g., GitLab).
• Experience with BI and analytics tools (e.g., Tableau, Python, R) and advanced analytics techniques.
• Familiarity with DataOps/DevOps practices and automation tools (e.g., Terraform, ARM).
• Knowledge of Agile/Scrum methodologies and tools (e.g., JIRA, Confluence).
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills; experience working with cross-functional and distributed teams.
• Understanding of data governance, security, and best practices.
• Experience with AI/ML and familiarity with modern AI platforms (e.g., Azure ML, Copilot, Claude, OpenAI) is preferred.

HIRING RANGE

The current full-time, annualized base pay hiring range for this role is $108,300.00-$154,880.00. In accordance with applicable state laws, we are providing the expected pay range for this position. Individual compensation will be determined by various factors, including relevant experience, qualifications, current business needs and local market factors. Most regular, full-time employees are eligible to participate in an Ascend incentive bonus or sales plan.   

BENEFITS 

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Company paid life Insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and parental leave
• Employee assistance program
• Other wellness programs such as Headspace and Airvet
• Charitable matching program