Senior Data Architect

Vedder Price's Chicago office is seeking a Senior Data Architect. The Senior Data Architect is responsible for data modeling, validation, integrity and security of a legal data ecosystem. The position requires significant experience in database design and optimization and the ability to interpret data analysis into technical engineering outcomes. This position will report to the CIO, working in collaboration with the Business Intelligence and Information Governance departments. This role will be responsible for executing the vision of a centralized data structure that promotes high quality, consistency, and allows for reliable communication among systems, coupled with reporting used by legal and support staff alike.

As the Senior Data Architect, your job duties will include but not be limited to:

• Collaborate with IT leadership to implement data integration strategies to connect disparate data sources and take advantage of existing technologies, as well as bring forth new technologies that address business needs effectively.
• Partner with Business Intelligence to ensure a high level of data quality firmwide and deliver insights through platforms such as Power Bl, and other visualization tools.
• Learn business processes from the Business Intelligence Lead, recommend and implement supportable data changes, including any relevant tools to better secure those processes.
• Implement scalable, efficient data pipelines and solutions to support ingestion, processing, and analysis of complex datasets in the legal domain.
• Actively engage in coding, debugging, and optimizing SQL queries, ETL processes, and cloud-based data services.
• Work together with the DBA Lead to improve the structure, quality, and ownership of data from the agreed systems of record.
• Implement effective data models and develop best practices with the head of Information Governance for data integration and data security.
• Manage the migration of data from legacy systems to new solutions.
• Create and maintain clear documentation of data models, database structures, and data management processes, as well as provide training to team members on data systems and best practices.
• Develop and enforce best practices for data integrity, security, and performance, using industry-leading tools and methodologies.
• Maintain hands-on involvement in the full data lifecycle, from profiling and cataloging data to ensuring high-quality, production-ready deliverables.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal skills required to communicate in oral and written form with other IT team members, and leaders of the firm (users of systems).
• Strong time management skills with proven ability to multi-task and maintain professional demeanor under pressure.
• Acute attention to detail

Qualifications & Required Experience:

• At least 5 years of hands-on experience in a law firm, legal systems integration company, or related industry.
• Expertise in core legal business applications such as Elite 3E, Aderant Expert, iManage, NetDocuments, lntapp, Iridium, BigSquare, Foundation, Interaction, HRIS systems, viDesktop, and others.
• Proficiency in SQL, schema design, and development, with a proven track record of building production-level solutions.
• Strong hands-on experience with ETL/ELT tools and data transformation processes.
• Familiarity with Azure data services, including Azure Data Factory, Azure Data Lake Storage, and Azure SQL Database.

Computer Skills:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be proficient in the following software:

• SQL standards and best practices, including optimization.
• Master Data Management concepts and design.
• Working knowledge of reporting tools such as PowerBI, Qlik, Tableau

Compensation Range: $115,000/yr. to $145,000/yr.

At Vedder Price, we believe in recognizing and rewarding our employees' contributions. Our comprehensive Total Rewards Package includes:

• Competitive Salary: We offer a competitive base salary commensurate with skills and experience.
• Bonus Program: Discretionary annual bonus program.
• Retirement Planning: Discretionary profit sharing and 401(k) matching to help you plan for your future.
• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans, along with optional health savings and flexible spending accounts, firm-paid Life and Disability benefits, and wellness programs to support your overall well-being.
• Paid Time Off: Competitive time off package including vacation days, paid holidays, sick time and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career growth through firm provided training programs.
• Employee Recognition: Anniversary and Vedder Praise Programs to celebrate your achievements and milestones.
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work model and family-friendly policies.
• Additional Perks: Employee discount program, pre-tax commuter benefits, back up child & elder care, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), fitness center discounts and more.

Join Vedder Price and be part of a team that values hard work and dedication!

Equal Employment Opportunity

Vedder Price P.C. is an equal opportunity employer. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability (where applicant is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations), medical condition, protected veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We participate in E-verify.

Applicants who are interested in applying for a position and require special assistance or an accommodation during the process due to a disability should contact the Vedder Price Recruiting Team at vprecruiting@vedderprice.com.