DATA & AI ARCHITECT This is a fully remote position PURPOSE: The Data & AI Architect is Ascend Technologies’ technical owner of its enterprise data and AI platform. This person sets the roadmap and designs, builds, secures, and operates the data infrastructure supporting reporting, automation, and AI applications. They keep data trusted, protected, and ready to scale, working hands-on across the database, pipelines, and AI integrations, and they chair the Data Governance Committee. Over time, the role grows into the architectural authority for how Ascend uses data and AI: a partner to every team that builds on the platform. THE ENVIRONMENT: Ascend uses a modern, cloud-based data and analytics environment incorporating technologies such as PostgreSQL, Azure, and Python to support business intelligence, data integration, automation, and AI-enabled solutions. The environment emphasizes security, governance, and scalability. You will work alongside our Data Analytics and Reporting Lead and our engineering partners, and you will be the technical lead for what gets built. Tools you’ll use: PostgreSQL, dbt, Prefect, Azure, Python, GitHub / GitHub Actions, Power BI, Claude / Claude Code, MCP, n8n, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Sage Intacct, Paylocity. RESPONSIBILITIES: Own the platform roadmap and architecture, setting priorities and directing work across staff and engineering partners. Design and maintain dbt models, the semantic layer, and data quality tests that keep reported numbers trusted. Administer PostgreSQL, including performance, backup and recovery, and monitoring, and run automated, repeatable pipeline deployments (Prefect, GitHub Actions) with no dependence on any one person’s machine or credentials. Manage security and access: implement appropriate access controls, data protection measures, encryption, and credential management practices. Chair the Data Governance Committee, working with system owners and data stewards to keep definitions, standards, and data quality current. Design and operate secure AI integrations, and guide the build of AI-native applications and automations from prototype to production. Other responsibilities as assigned by management MINIMUM SKILLS, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Experience: At least 5+ years in data engineering, database administration, data architecture, or a similar role. PostgreSQL & SQL: Strong SQL and hands-on database administration, including performance tuning, backup, and recovery. Modern Data Stack: Experience with dbt (or equivalent transformation tools) and orchestration tools such as Prefect or Airflow. Cloud: Working knowledge of Azure or a similar cloud, including networking and identity. Python: Able to build and maintain pipelines and automation in Python. CI/CD: Experience building automated deployment pipelines (GitHub Actions or equivalent). AI Tooling: Hands-on experience building with AI and LLM tools, such as AI coding assistants or LLM integrations. Security: Practical experience with role-based access, encryption, and credential management. Communication: Able to lead cross-functional groups and explain technical decisions to non-technical audiences. PREFERRED SKILLS OR EXPERIENCE : Claude Code & MCP: Experience with Claude Code or Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers. Containers: Experience with containerized deployments. Source Systems: Familiarity with Salesforce, ServiceNow, Paylocity, or Sage Intacct data models. Governance & MSP: Experience leading data governance; background in managed services or IT services. Starting Compensation Range: $140,000 per year The salary for this position is commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications. The range is intended to reflect our commitment to attracting top talent, and the final offer will be based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's previous experience, expertise in the field, relevant certifications, and the specific requirements of the role. In addition, internal equity, market trends, and geographic location may also influence the final salary. At Ascend Technologies we firmly believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not only fundamental values but also powerful drivers of innovation, growth, and success. We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered. CORE VALUES We are seeking highly motivated individuals who have the willingness and ability to demonstrate Ascend core values: Committed to Client Success: Our actions and our words always align with the best interest of the client. One Team: We work collaboratively to overcome challenges with humility and respect and do what it takes to find innovative solutions. Integrity: We are unquestionably committed to doing the right thing even when it is hard. Accountability: We hold ourselves and each other accountable for keeping our commitments to our clients, our communities, and one another. Transparency: We create open lines of communication with each other and our clients, fostering relationships founded on candor and trust. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Must be able to sit, stand, and bend for the duration of shift. The position is mainly sitting, with occasional lifting up to 50 lbs, such as laptop, server equipment, and, driving to the work site to meet with client(s).