Data Architect

OBSS is Turkey’s largest technology consultancy, pioneering product development and technology consulting for an AI-native future. With more than 20 years of experience and offices in Istanbul, Ankara, London, Amsterdam, and Baku, we empower leading companies in banking and finance, insurance, e-commerce, retail, and the start-up ecosystem. Our team of over 1000 talented professionals thrives on collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.

We are seeking an experienced Lead Data Architect for our growing company. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience in designing and implementing end-to-end Data Lakehouse solutions using open-source technologies, with a strong background in data architecture, integration, and large-scale data platform modernization.

The role requires technical leadership, architectural expertise, and the ability to design scalable, reliable, and high-performance data platforms.

Main Responsibilities

Project Technical Leadership:

• Lead the architectural design and end-to-end implementation of open-source Data Lakehouse projects.
• Collaborate with senior management, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to define project goals, requirements, and timelines.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to project teams, ensuring alignment with industry best practices.

Architecture Design:

• Design and architect comprehensive, scalable Data Lakehouse platforms primarily leveraging open-source technologies.
• Lead the design and implementation of data ingestion, processing, transformation, storage, and analytics layers.
• Design data architectures utilizing technologies such as Apache Iceberg, Apache Flink, Apache Kafka, Apache Spark, Airbyte, dbt, MinIO, and Debezium.
• Ensure seamless integration with existing enterprise systems and support future scalability for advanced analytics and AI/ML applications.
• Develop and document architectural blueprints, technical standards, and implementation guidelines.

Data Governance:

• Establish and implement data governance policies and procedures to ensure data quality, integrity, security, and compliance.
• Design and implement data management, metadata management, and data lifecycle processes.
• Collaborate with compliance and security teams to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.

Technology Evaluation and Implementation:

• Evaluate and select appropriate open-source technologies for Data Lakehouse architecture and implementation.
• Oversee the integration and optimization of data ingestion, streaming, transformation, and storage technologies.
• Ensure platform reliability, scalability, performance, and maintainability.
• Monitor and troubleshoot architectural and implementation challenges, providing effective technical solutions.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Act as a liaison between technical and non-technical stakeholders, translating complex technical concepts into business terms.
• Conduct regular progress updates, presentations, and technical workshops for stakeholders.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative environment within the project team.

Continuous Improvement:

• Stay current with emerging trends and technologies in open-source data platforms, Data Lakehouse architectures, and data engineering.
• Identify opportunities to improve platform performance, scalability, automation, and operational efficiency.

Qualifications / Technical Skills

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• 9–10 years of relevant experience in data architecture, data engineering, or large-scale data platform modernization projects.
• Proven hands-on experience in designing and implementing at least one end-to-end Data Lakehouse project using open-source technologies is a must.
• Strong practical experience with open-source Data Lakehouse technologies, including Apache Iceberg, Apache Flink, Apache Kafka, Apache Spark, Airbyte, dbt, MinIO, and Debezium.
• Strong understanding of modern Data Lakehouse architectures, distributed data processing, batch and real-time data pipelines, and change data capture (CDC).
• Experience with data integration, ETL/ELT processes, data warehousing, and big data technologies.
• Proficiency in data modeling, database design, and data management tools.
• Strong knowledge of data governance, data security, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent technical leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Ability to approach AI with curiosity and intention, actively incorporating AI-powered tools into workflows to enhance productivity and drive innovation.
• Willingness and availability to travel to Ankara on a weekly or biweekly basis.
• Advanced level of English proficiency is a must.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform.
• Familiarity with cloud-based data services and platforms such as Azure Data Services, Databricks, and Snowflake.
• Certification in cloud technologies (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Azure Solutions Architect Expert).
• Familiarity with modern data analytics and AI/ML platforms.

Additional Information

Professional Growth & Learning

As a tech company, we focus on reskilling and upskilling to support career growth. We offer a personalized Individual Growth Program (IGP), where employees set clear goals for each half of the year. These goals may include trainings, certifications, and personal development milestones, creating a structured roadmap for continuous improvement. The IGP helps employees strengthen both technical and soft skills, ensuring steady professional advancement.

Company Culture and Values

We celebrate diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering a collaborative environment where innovation can flourish. Our culture emphasizes mentorship, knowledge sharing, and active participation in tech communities, workshops, and team events. This vibrant atmosphere empowers employees to contribute their best while feeling supported and valued.

Benefits and Perks

We provide competitive salaries, flexible and hybrid working arrangements, and a wide range of opportunities for growth through training programs, certifications, and workshops. In addition, we offer initiatives designed to build a supportive and engaging workplace where curiosity and collaboration are encouraged. These benefits ensure that employees feel motivated, empowered, and equipped to reach their full potential.