Principal Data Architect

Headquartered 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 Role

We 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 Matters

You’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 Responsibilities

Enterprise Data Architecture (ERP, MES, PLM)

Define end-to-end data architecture spanning ERP, MES, PLM, CRM, and other enterprise systems

Establish 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 & Interoperability

Lead architecture for cross-system data flows (e.g., order-to-cash, procure-to-pay, manufacturing execution)

Standardize data exchange, synchronization, and lineage across platforms

Partner with application teams to reduce point-to-point integrations and data silos

Data Platform & Analytics Enablement

Align operational data architecture with enterprise data platform (warehouse / lake house)

Enable high-quality, trusted data for reporting, analytics, and AI/ML use cases

Define patterns for real-time and batch data processing

Master Data & Governance

Define and support Master Data Management (MDM) strategy across domains

Establish data governance, quality, and stewardship models

Ensure compliance with data security, privacy, and regulatory requirements

Leadership & Collaboration

Act as a bridge between enterprise applications, data engineering, and business teams

Influence architecture decisions across IT and business domains

Provide technical leadership and mentorship to architects and engineers