Principal Data ArchitectHeadquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts, IPG Photonics employs over 4,800 people across more than 25 locations worldwide. As a pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers, we are committed to applying light-based technologies in ways that improve life.Our mission is to develop innovative laser solutions that make the world a better place. We are equally committed to building a strong, engaged workforce by attracting and retaining top talent and fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that supports long-term growth and sustainability.At IPG Photonics, employees can expect meaningful, challenging work, a supportive and team-oriented culture, and competitive benefits.About the RoleWe are seeking a Principal Data Architect to lead the design of data architecture across our Microsoft Dynamics 365 ecosystem (ERP and CRM) and enterprise data platform.
You will play a critical role in connecting core business systems with modern data platforms to enable scalable analytics, AI, and efficient business operations.Why This Role MattersYou'll help shape how data flows across critical business systems, reducing complexity and enabling faster, more reliable insights across the organization.The Principal Data Architect will define and drive the data architecture strategy across core enterprise systems—including ERP, MES, PLM, and other business-critical applications—while enabling a scalable data platform for analytics and AI. This role ensures consistent data models, seamless integration, and high data quality across operational and analytical environments.Key ResponsibilitiesEnterprise Data Architecture (ERP, MES, PLM)Define end-to-end data architecture spanning ERP, MES, PLM, CRM, and other enterprise systemsEstablish canonical data models and master data standards (e.g., product, customer, supplier, manufacturing data)Design integration patterns across applications (APIs, event-driven, ETL/ELT, data virtualization)Data Integration & InteroperabilityLead architecture for cross-system data flows (e.g., order-to-cash, procure-to-pay, manufacturing execution)Standardize data exchange, synchronization, and lineage across platformsPartner with application teams to reduce point-to-point integrations and data silosData Platform & Analytics EnablementAlign operational data architecture with enterprise data platform (warehouse / lake house)Enable high-quality, trusted data for reporting, analytics, and AI/ML use casesDefine patterns for real-time and batch data processingMaster Data & GovernanceDefine and support Master Data Management (MDM) strategy across domainsEstablish data governance, quality, and stewardship modelsEnsure compliance with data security, privacy, and regulatory requirementsLeadership & CollaborationAct as a bridge between enterprise applications, data engineering, and business teamsInfluence architecture decisions across IT and business domainsProvide technical leadership and mentorship to architects and engineersRequiredBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)10+ years in data architecture, data engineering, or enterprise architecture rolesStrong experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 (ERP and CRM), including understanding of underlying data models (Finance & Operations, Sales, Customer Service, etc.)Proven track record designing data architectures and integrations around D365, including data extraction, synchronization, and extension patternsDeep expertise in data modeling (transactional and analytical), particularly across finance, customer, product, and order domainsExperience designing cross-system integrations using APIs, Dataverse, Azure Integration Services, or middleware platformsHands-on experience with Azure data ecosystem (e.g., Azure Data Factory, Synapse, Fabric, Data Lake)Strong understanding of data lifecycle management, data quality, and governance practicesAbility to influence across business and IT stakeholders without direct authorityPreferredExperience integrating D365 with MES, PLM, or other enterprise/manufacturing systemsFamiliarity with Dataverse, Dual-write, BYOD (Bring Your Own Database), and Common Data Model (CDM)Experience with event-driven architectures (e.g., Azure Event Grid, Service Bus)Knowledge of master data management (MDM) solutions and implementationExperience supporting analytics and reporting layers (Power BI, Fabric, or similar) on top of D365 dataBackground in manufacturing, supply chain, or industrial environments