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Director Data Platform Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Director, Data Engineering

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$133K - $167K/yr

The Director will initially provide technical guidance and mentorship while strengthening internal ... The role will oversee enterprise data platforms, pipelines, architecture, governance, and cloud ...

Director, Data Strategy & Services

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site +1

$173K - $238K/yr

Our intelligent cloud-based platform seamlessly connects people, systems, and processes to empower ... Build the GTM Data Foundation That Powers Personalization & Revenue Acceleration The Director, Data ...

Director, Data Strategy & Services

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site +1

$173K - $238K/yr

Our intelligent cloud-based platform seamlessly connects people, systems, and processes to empower ... Build the GTM Data Foundation That Powers Personalization & Revenue Acceleration The Director, Data ...

Director, Data Science & Insights

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

DIRECTOR, DATA SCIENCE & INSIGHTS REPORTS TO: CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER STATUS: EXEMPT Summary Boot ... Familiarity with modern data and ML ecosystems (Python, cloud platforms, MLOps frameworks, data ...

Director, Data Science & Insights

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

DIRECTOR, DATA SCIENCE & INSIGHTS REPORTS TO: CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER STATUS: EXEMPT Summary Boot ... Familiarity with modern data and ML ecosystems (Python, cloud platforms, MLOps frameworks, data ...

As the Director, Enterprise Data, you'll set the technical direction for the team, architect the ... Define the architecture for our data platform (Databricks, Fivetran, dbt) and AI tooling; make ...

... platforms (e.g., Google ADH, Facebook advanced analytics, Amazon Marketing Cloud, etc.) Help ... data driven outcomes Excellent project management skills with an ability to set and achieve goals ...

... platforms (e.g., Google ADH, Facebook advanced analytics, Amazon Marketing Cloud, etc.) Help ... data driven outcomes Excellent project management skills with an ability to set and achieve goals ...

Showing results 41-60

Director Data Platform information

See California salary details

$51.3K

$126.8K

$197.4K

How much do director data platform jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for director data platform in California is $126,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,800.00 and $161,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director data platform do?

A Director of Data Platform is responsible for leading the strategy, architecture, and management of an organization's data infrastructure. They oversee teams that build and maintain data platforms, ensure data quality and security, and enable data-driven decision making across the company. The role requires close collaboration with engineering, analytics, and business teams to support current and future data needs. Additionally, they evaluate new technologies and ensure the data platform scales with business growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director data platform, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Data Platform, you need deep expertise in data architecture, data engineering, and analytics, usually backed by a degree in computer science or a related field and significant leadership experience. Familiarity with cloud platforms (like AWS, Azure, or GCP), big data tools (such as Hadoop or Spark), and data governance frameworks is critical, along with certifications in cloud or data management. Exceptional strategic thinking, communication, and stakeholder management help drive cross-functional alignment and innovation. These capabilities ensure robust, scalable data infrastructures that support business goals and enable data-driven decision-making.

What are the main challenges a director data platform faces when scaling data infrastructure for a growing organization?

A Director of Data Platform often faces challenges related to balancing scalability, performance, and cost efficiency as the organization grows. Ensuring data security and compliance across multiple systems, integrating diverse data sources, and maintaining high data quality can be complex, especially as teams and data volumes expand. Additionally, the role requires close collaboration with engineering, analytics, and business teams to align the data platform with evolving business needs and to foster a data-driven culture. Proactive communication, strategic planning, and continuous learning are key to overcoming these hurdles.

What is the difference between Director Data Platform vs Data Engineer?

AspectDirector Data PlatformData Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (Master's or PhD) in Computer Science, Data Science, or related fields; leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Data Engineering, or related fields; certifications like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure are common
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, oversees data platform architecture, strategic planning, and cross-department collaborationBuilds, develops, and maintains data pipelines, databases, and ETL processes
Industry UsageCommonly found in organizations with large-scale data needs, overseeing data infrastructureHands-on role in data processing, often working closely with data scientists and analysts

The Director Data Platform focuses on strategic leadership, architecture, and team management of data infrastructure, while Data Engineers are more involved in the technical development and maintenance of data pipelines and systems. Both roles are essential but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Director Data Platform jobs in California?

For Director Data Platform jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Data Platform jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Data Platform jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Director Data Platform jobs?

Cities in California with the most Director Data Platform job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Data Platform job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,843 per year, or $61 per hour.

Director, Data Engineering

Sayva Solutions

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$133K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the Data Engineering function, including managing managers and data engineering professionals.

  • Guide the strategy and execution of enterprise data platforms, pipelines, architecture, governance, and cloud technologies.

  • Assess the current operating model, develop recommendations to improve internal capabilities, and provide technical leadership and mentorship.


Job description

About the Opportunity:
We are partnering with a mission-driven, forward-thinking organization seeking an experienced Director of Data Engineering to lead and evolve its enterprise Data Engineering function. Reporting to the VP of Enterprise Data & Analytics, this leader will assess the current team and technology environment, develop a future-state operating model, and establish a long-term roadmap for a modern, cloud-based data engineering organization.
This is a highly visible opportunity for a strategic leader who is also comfortable being hands-on when needed. The Director will initially provide technical guidance and mentorship while strengthening internal capabilities and building a scalable team structure. The role will oversee enterprise data platforms, pipelines, architecture, governance, and cloud strategy while ensuring the data environment is positioned to support advanced analytics and AI initiatives.
The organization is investing in modern technologies and offers the opportunity to have a meaningful impact on enterprise-wide data strategy. This position is remote within Southern California, with travel to Orange County approximately once per month or as needed for collaboration.
Salary Range: $133,000-$167,000
Please note this range is an estimate and actual pay may vary based on qualifications and experience.
Responsibilities:
โ€ข Lead the Data Engineering function, including Manager-level direct reports and a broader team of data engineering professionals.
โ€ข Partner with executive leadership to define the future-state vision, organizational structure, and strategic roadmap for enterprise Data Engineering.
โ€ข Evaluate the current operating model, gather input from key stakeholders, and develop recommendations to strengthen internal capabilities and team effectiveness.
โ€ข Provide hands-on technical leadership, coaching, and mentorship as the organization continues its transition toward a mature cloud-based data environment.
โ€ข Guide the strategy and execution of enterprise data platforms, pipelines, architecture, governance, and cloud technologies.
โ€ข Ensure the enterprise data foundation can effectively support business intelligence, advanced analytics, AI, and machine learning initiatives.
โ€ข Collaborate with business and technology leaders across the organization to align data engineering priorities with broader strategic objectives.
โ€ข Assess emerging technologies and introduce modern engineering practices that improve scalability, reliability, performance, and maintainability.
โ€ข Provide leadership and oversight to external technology partners while developing greater internal Data Engineering capabilities over time.
โ€ข Establish standards, processes, and technical direction that support the continued growth and maturity of the Enterprise Data & Analytics organization.
Qualifications:
โ€ข 10+ years of experience across enterprise Data Engineering, Data Architecture, or related disciplines, including 6+ years leading technical teams.
โ€ข Demonstrated success building, modernizing, or transforming enterprise data platforms and Data Engineering organizations.
โ€ข Strong experience with modern cloud data platforms; Microsoft Fabric experience is highly preferred, with Azure, Databricks, Snowflake, or Google Cloud experience also relevant.
โ€ข Technical familiarity with modern data engineering technologies such as Azure Data Factory, Spark, dbt, Airflow, Kafka, SQL, Python, or comparable tools.
โ€ข Proven ability to develop long-term technical and organizational strategies while translating vision into an actionable roadmap.
โ€ข Experience partnering with analytics, AI/ML, technology, and business teams to enable enterprise-level initiatives and measurable outcomes.
โ€ข Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to build consensus, influence stakeholders, and work effectively with executive leadership.
โ€ข Comfortable balancing strategic leadership with hands-on technical involvement, particularly while developing and mentoring a growing team.
โ€ข Collaborative, adaptable leadership style with an interest in working within a mission-driven organization that embraces innovation.
โ€ข Master`s degree or MBA is a plus.
About Sayva: Sayva Solutions is an accounting, finance, technology, business transformation and human resources professional services firm whose focus is on long term relationships created through teamwork and doing what is in the best interest of others. By working with Sayva to identify your next career move, you will get the benefit of working with an experienced team who not only has a strong network of trusted clients, but expertise in the markets, and functions, we serve. We can provide insight on what your market value is, what companies have to offer, and what opportunities align best with your professional and personal goals. We are your trusted advisor throughout your search process and can help ensure you are prepared for interviews, have the information to make the best decisions, and receive a strong offer to land you that perfect job. Making a career move is not easy and can be stressful; Sayva can be your partner in making the process smooth, transparent, and rewarding.
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