Manager, Database Engineering

Manager, Systems & Database Engineering

Location: Verona, NY

Department: Information Technology

Reports To: Director, IT Infrastructure & Engineering

About the Role

A rapidly growing organization in the hospitality/entertainment sector is seeking a Manager of Systems & Database Engineering to lead a high-performing technical team responsible for mission-critical infrastructure and data environments. This leader will oversee both systems and database functions (approximately 60% systems & 30% data) while also serving as a hands-on technical resource and strategic partner across IT.

What You’ll Do

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 10+ Systems Engineers to Database Administrators 
• Plan, assign, and track day-to-day work; ensure training, performance management, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee administration, maintenance, and proactive monitoring of servers, operating systems, virtualization platforms (VMware, Nutanix), and cloud environments (Azure).
• Provide hands-on leadership for SQL Server database design, administration, backup/recovery, performance tuning, and security.
• Manage and enhance the Enterprise Data Warehouse and all application-related database frameworks.
• Direct on-prem to cloud transformation initiatives and support hybrid architectures.
• Ensure availability, reliability, and resiliency of mission-critical systems, including revenue-generating platforms.
• Lead and enforce change management and SDLC processes.
• Drive accurate documentation, project tracking, reporting, and operational transparency.
• Partner closely with Application, Infrastructure, and Security teams to support integrations, upgrades, and enhancements.
• Oversee 24/7 on-call coverage for responsible systems; manage escalation and vendor coordination.
• Analyze workload, forecast priorities, and communicate risks and roadblocks to leadership.
• Support the development of IT strategies, standards, and policies aligned with business objectives.
• Foster a culture rooted in collaboration, professionalism, accountability, and customer service excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or equivalent experience.
• 8–10+ years of overall experience in systems engineering and/or database management.
• 3–5+ years of direct people management experience.
• Strong hands-on background with: SQL Server & database administration, Enterprise Data Warehouse environments, Server/OS administration, Virtualization (VMware, Nutanix), Azure or other cloud services
• Experience with Active Directory, SAN/disk technologies, networking fundamentals; gaming/hospitality systems are a strong plus.
• Ability to operate effectively in a high-pressure, fast-moving environment.
• Excellent communication skills and proven leadership capability.
• On-site presence required; ability to participate in 24/7 on-call rotation.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Lead a critical technical function with meaningful impact across the business.
• Work with modern and evolving technologies, including cloud transformation initiatives.
• High visibility with IT leadership and cross-departmental stakeholders.
• Strong stability, supportive culture, and long-term growth trajectory.
• Hands-on leadership role where initiative, aptitude, and accountability are valued.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $130,000–$150,000 + Annual Bonus ~10% target (discretionary)
• 401(k): 5% company match
• Health Insurance: 100% employer-paid individual insurance 
• Additional benefits aligned with a competitive, people-first employer