Principal Data System Architect

@ GitLab

About GitLab

GitLab is an open-core software company that develops a comprehensive AI-powered DevSecOps Platform used by over 100,000 organizations. Our mission is to enable everyone to contribute to and co-create the software that powers our world. We believe in embracing AI as a productivity multiplier and value continuous knowledge exchange.

Role Overview

As the Principal Data System Architect at GitLab, you will drive the strategic evolution of our data platform. You will design scalable, distributed solutions that manage and leverage data across SaaS and self-managed deployments, supporting enterprise-scale growth and innovation.

What You’ll Do

• Drive architectural vision for scalable, distributed data systems.
• Define enterprise data product standards and governance frameworks.
• Build governed, monetizable data services and APIs.
• Partner with product and engineering teams for modern AI-driven patterns.
• Architect event-driven systems and integrations using tools like Argo, Airflow, and Kubernetes.
• Design end-to-end data lifecycle architecture across platforms.
• Establish CI/CD best practices for data systems.
• Transform ambiguity into strategic roadmaps and lead technical engagements.

What You’ll Bring

• Experience in architecting large-scale distributed data systems in regulated domains.
• Demonstrated leadership in building multi-modal data services focusing on monetization and governance.
• Expertise with modern data stack technologies such as Python, Docker, Airflow, Trino, and Postgres.
• Advanced knowledge of cloud and on-premises deployment integration.
• Deep understanding of data processing paradigms, schema management, and metadata standards.
• Experience with AI-driven architectures and emerging technologies.
• Strong opinions on cost-aware and resilient solutions.
• Commitment to open source platforms, mentorship, and collaborative culture.

About The Team

The Data Engineering and Monetization team is a newly formed function within the Engineering Org with a mission to build a comprehensive foundation of scalable and responsible data platforms.

How GitLab Will Support You

• Flexible Paid Time Off and home office support.
• Equity Compensation & Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Team Member Resource Groups and Growth and Development Fund.
• Parental leave and a focus on health, finances, and well-being.

Key skills/competency

Distributed Systems, Data Architecture, AI, Data Governance, Monetization, CI/CD, Cloud, Open Source, SQL, Python