Data Architect (DV) at IO Associates, Multiple Locations, £650-£700 per day

Location: UK (On-site)
Security Clearance: Developed Vetting (DV) - Active & Transferable
Sector: Defence / National Security
Employment Type: Contract
Rate: 650 - 700/ Day (Outside IR35)
Duration: 6 Months

We are working with a high-profile defence client on a mission-critical programme and are seeking an experienced DV Cleared Data Architect to play a key role in shaping and delivering secure, scalable data solutions within a highly regulated environment.

This is an opportunity to work on complex, nationally significant systems, collaborating with senior technical and stakeholder teams to design robust data architectures that directly support operational outcomes.

• Lead the design and ownership of enterprise-level data architectures in a secure defence setting
• Define data models, integration patterns, and data governance standards
• Work closely with solution architects, engineers, security teams, and delivery leads
• Ensure architectures align with security, compliance, and accreditation requirements
• Support cloud and hybrid data platforms, including modern analytics and data engineering stacks
• Provide technical leadership and architectural assurance across programmes

• Active DV clearance (mandatory)
• Proven experience as a Data Architect in complex, large-scale environments
• Strong background in data modelling, data integration, and data lifecycle management
• Experience designing architectures for secure, high-assurance systems
• Knowledge of modern data platforms (e.g. cloud-based data lakes / warehouses)
• Ability to engage confidently with senior stakeholders and technical teams

• Experience within defence, national security, or central government
• Exposure to platforms such as Databricks, Snowflake, Azure, or AWS
• Familiarity with architectural frameworks and standards
• Understanding of DevSecOps and secure-by-design principles