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Database Architect Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Database Architect

Arlington, VA ยท Remote

$150K - $160K/yr

The Database Architect will define database architecture, data storage strategies, schema standards, and performance optimization practices for mission-critical HRIT applications. This role ensures ...

Database Architect

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$73.25 - $94.25/hr

Database Architect Category: Architecture Main location: United States, Virginia, Arlington Position ID:J0925-2100 Employment Type: Full Time Position Description: *Government Security Clearance ...

The Jr. DB Architect will be responsible for working with our data engineers/scientists to provide data documentation and convey requirements from other task areas to our team. * This position will ...

Database Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$65K - $93K/yr

Test database architecture solutions that improve scalability, resilience, security, and performance. * Assist in establishing database architecture standards, policies, and best practices across ...

Test database architecture solutions that improve scalability, resilience, security, and performance. * Assist in establishing database architecture standards, policies, and best practices across ...

Database Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$65K - $93K/yr

Test database architecture solutions that improve scalability, resilience, security, and performance. * Assist in establishing database architecture standards, policies, and best practices across ...

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Database Architect information

See Washington salary details

$12

$79

$106

How much do database architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for database architect in Washington is $79.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69.42 and $89.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Database Architect typically collaborate with development and operations teams during a project?

A Database Architect works closely with both development and operations teams throughout a project's lifecycle. They collaborate with developers to ensure database designs align with application requirements and performance goals, often participating in code reviews and providing guidance on data modeling best practices. With operations teams, Database Architects coordinate on deployment, monitoring, and optimization of database systems to maintain reliability and scalability. This cross-functional collaboration is essential for delivering robust, maintainable, and high-performing database solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Database Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Database Architect, you require expertise in database design, data modeling, and strong knowledge of SQL, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with database management systems like Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, and certifications such as Oracle Certified Professional or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator are commonly expected. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly set standout professionals apart. These skills ensure robust, scalable, and secure data solutions that meet organizational needs and support business growth.

What is the difference between Database Architect vs Database Administrator?

AspectDatabase ArchitectDatabase Administrator
Primary RoleDesigns and plans database structures and architectureMaintains, monitors, and manages existing databases
Skills & CertificationsDatabase design, SQL, data modeling, certifications like Oracle or MicrosoftDatabase management, backup/recovery, security, certifications like Oracle DBA or Microsoft SQL Server
Work EnvironmentDesign phase, collaboration with developers and stakeholdersOperational phase, troubleshooting, performance tuning
FocusFuture-proof database architecture and scalabilityEnsuring database stability, security, and performance

The main difference between a Database Architect and a Database Administrator lies in their focus. The Database Architect designs the database structure and plans for future growth, while the Database Administrator manages and maintains the databases to ensure smooth operation. Both roles require strong SQL skills and certifications, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are Database Architects?

Database Architects are IT professionals who design, implement, and maintain complex database systems to store and organize data efficiently. They create blueprints for data management systems, ensure data integrity, set security standards, and optimize database performance. Their work is crucial for organizations that rely on large volumes of data, as they help ensure information is accessible, reliable, and secure. Database Architects often collaborate with developers, analysts, and system administrators to meet business needs and support organizational goals.
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Infographic showing various Database Architect job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $164,857 per year, or $79.3 per hour.

Database Architect

IMAGINEEER LLC

Arlington, VA โ€ข Remote

$150K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off

About this Role:ย 
Imagineeer is seeking an experienced Database Architect to support the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) in designing, implementing, and optimizing enterprise database environments supporting the Human Capital Management (HCM) platform.ย 
The Database Architect will define database architecture, data storage strategies, schema standards, and performance optimization practices for mission-critical HRIT applications. This role ensures databases are secure, scalable, compliant with federal standards, and capable of supporting enterprise integrations, reporting, and high-volume transactions across the HCM ecosystem.ย 
Key Responsibilities:ย 
  • Design and maintain enterprise database architecture supporting HRIT and HCM enterprise systems.ย 
  • Develop conceptual, logical, and physical database models aligned with enterprise architecture and data standards.ย 
  • Define and enforce database design standards, naming conventions, and schema governance practices.ย 
  • Architect scalable and high-performance database platforms capable of supporting enterprise HR operations.ย 
  • Design strategies for database indexing, partitioning, query optimization, and workload management.ย 
  • Architect high availability and fault-tolerant database environments.ย 
  • Develop backup, recovery, replication, and disaster recovery strategies for mission-critical systems.ย 
  • Monitor and optimize database performance to support high-volume transactional workloads.ย 
  • Architect and support data integration strategies across enterprise systems, APIs, and service platforms.ย 
  • Collaborate with development teams to ensure applications follow database architecture and performance best practices.ย 
  • Support data migration efforts, including transformation, validation, and testing strategies.ย 
  • Design database solutions that enable enterprise reporting, analytics, and operational data exchange.ย 
  • Implement database security architectures aligned with federal cybersecurity requirements.ย 
  • Ensure compliance with NIST security standards, federal records management policies, and accessibility requirements (Section 508).ย 
  • Define data protection mechanisms including encryption, role-based access control, and auditing capabilities.ย 
  • Participate in architecture reviews, code reviews, and system design discussions.ย 
ย 
Qualifications and Skills:ย 
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Engineering, or a related discipline.ย 
  • 8+ย years of experience in database architecture, database engineering, or enterprise data platform design.ย 
  • Strong expertise in relational database design and SQL development.ย 
  • Experience supporting enterprise systems within federal government environments or comparable large-scale organizations.ย 
  • Demonstrated experience designing secure, scalable, and high-availability database environments.ย 
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.ย 
  • Advanced knowledge of relational database platforms such as: SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MySQLย 
  • Experience with cloud-based database platforms, including: AWS RDS / Aurora, Azure SQL Database, Cloud-native database services.ย 
  • Expertise in Database schema design, data modeling and normalization, Query tuning and indexing strategies, database performance optimization, data replication and clustering, backup and disaster recovery planning.ย 
  • Familiarity with ETL and data integration tools, API-based data exchange, database monitoring and observability tools.ย 
Desired Skills and Competencies:ย 
  • Experience supporting HHS or other federal health agencies (CMS, NIH, HRSA, FDA, CDC).ย 
  • Knowledge of federal enterprise architecture frameworks and modernization initiatives.ย 
  • Experience implementing enterprise data warehouses, operational data stores, or data lakes.ย 
  • Experience supporting large-scale enterprise system migrations or modernization initiatives.ย 
  • Certifications such as: CDMP, AWS Data Analytics, Azure Data Engineer, DAMAย 
  • Experience with USA Staffing
Equal Opportunity Employer:ย 
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications.ย 

This is a remote position.