Fully competent Data Architect operating independently with limited supervision. Responsible for end-to-end design decisions within their domain, contributing to enterprise standards and modernization initiatives. Work is evaluated based on quality, scalability, and alignment to architectural principles rather than task completion alone. ROLE SUMMARY This role is responsible for designing and evolving the organization's cloud data architecture as applications are migrated and re-architected from on-premises systems to Azure. The Data Architect will define scalable and secure data solutions leveraging Azure-managed database services (PostgreSQL Flexible Server, Azure SQL) and drive best practices in data modeling, integration, automation, and interoperability (including FHIR where applicable). KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Data Architecture & Modeling • Define reference architectures and reusable patterns that enable consistent adoption across multiple application teams • Design and maintain conceptual, logical, and physical data models for modernized applications • Define standards for data structures, naming conventions, and data lifecycle management • Ensure alignment between application architecture and data design (transactional + domain-driven patterns) Cloud Data Platform Architecture • Design and guide implementation of solutions using: • Azure PostgreSQL Flexible Server • Azure SQL / SQL Server • Supporting Azure data services (ADF, Event Hubs, etc.) • Establish architecture patterns for high availability, scalability, and disaster recovery • Provide guidance on database selection across relational and NoSQL options Modernization & Migration • Lead data architecture for on-prem to Azure migration and re-platforming efforts • Define strategies for: • Data migration (including near-zero downtime approaches) • Data synchronization and cutover • Schema modernization and decomposition of legacy designs Data Integration & Interoperability • Design integration patterns for batch and real-time data movement • Support implementation of FHIR-based data structures and interoperability patterns • Ensure consistency and quality across distributed data systems Governance, Security & Compliance • Establish standards for: • Data security and access controls (AAD, RBAC) • Data classification and protection • Audit and compliance requirements (including healthcare considerations if FHIR is used) • Ensure architecture aligns with enterprise governance models Collaboration & Leadership • Partner with application teams, DBAs, engineers, and business stakeholders to translate requirements into scalable data solutions • Act as a consultative architect, influencing design decisions without creating delivery bottlenecks • Produce and maintain architecture documentation, standards, and reference patterns Priority will be given to candidates who reside in the Columbus, OH metropolitan area. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this role presently or in the future MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience • 4+ years of experience in data architecture, database design, or data engineering CRITICAL SKILLS • Strong knowledge (4+ years) of cloud-native database platforms (Azure preferred) • Hands-on experience (4+ years) with: • Azure PostgreSQL (Flexible Server strongly preferred) • Azure SQL / SQL Server • Experience (4+ years) with database migration strategies, including: • Data synchronization • Low/zero-downtime migration patterns • Proficiency (4+ years) in: • Terraform or equivalent Infrastructure-as-Code tools • CI/CD pipeline integration for database deployments • Solid understanding of: • Data modeling (relational and NoSQL) • Distributed data patterns (sharding, CQRS, event-driven architectures) • Experience documenting data architecture standards and procedures PREFERRED SKILLS • Experience with Azure ecosystem services (ADF, Synapse, Data Lake, Cosmos DB) • Familiarity with FHIR and healthcare data interoperability standards • Experience with: • Liquibase or similar schema/versioning tools • ArgoCD or GitOps deployment models • Exposure to domain-driven design and microservices-based data architecture PROBLEM COMPLEXITY Independently solves complex data architecture challenges spanning multiple systems. Applies sound judgment in selecting patterns, technologies, and trade-offs within established architectural guidelines. KNOWLEDGE Applies broad knowledge of data architecture principles with working knowledge of cloud platforms, DevOps practices, and integration patterns. Demonstrates ability to operate across database, application, and infrastructure domains. We are proud to offer a competitive compensation package at McKesson as part of our Total Rewards. This is determined by several factors, including performance, experience and skills, equity, regular job market evaluations, and geographical markets. The pay range shown below is aligned with McKesson's pay philosophy, and pay will always be compliant with any applicable regulations. In addition to base pay, other compensation, such as an annual bonus or long-term incentive opportunities may be offered. For more information regarding benefits at McKesson, please click here. Our Base Pay Range for this position $103,500 - $172,500 McKesson has become aware of online recruiting-related scams in which individuals who are not affiliated with or authorized by McKesson are using McKesson's (or affiliated entities, like CoverMyMeds or RxCrossroads) name in fraudulent emails, job postings or social media messages. In light of these scams, please bear the following in mind: McKesson Talent Advisors will never solicit money or credit card information in connection with a McKesson job application. McKesson Talent Advisors do not communicate with candidates via online chatrooms or using email accounts such as Gmail or Hotmail. Note that McKesson does rely on a virtual assistant (Gia) for certain recruiting-related communications with candidates. McKesson job postings are posted on our career site: careers.mckesson.com.