Senior Database Administrator

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Database Administrator to serve as the organization's technical authority for database administration and engineering. This role is responsible for ensuring the reliability, performance, security, scalability, and recoverability of our enterprise database environment.

Reporting directly to the CIO, this position operates with a high degree of autonomy and is expected to proactively identify risks, establish standards, recommend architectural improvements, and lead database-related initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Database Administration

• Manage and maintain enterprise-level SQL Server environments.
• Install, configure, upgrade, and patch SQL Server instances and related systems.
• Lead root cause analysis of database incidents and implement preventative solutions.
• Oversee backup strategies, verification processes, and disaster recovery testing.
• Monitor database performance, storage, and log growth across environments.
• Manage SQL Server Agent jobs, including maintenance plans and integrity checks.
• Implement and maintain security controls, including access, encryption, and auditing.
• Create and decommission client databases as needed.
• Develop and enforce data retention, archival, and lifecycle policies.

Database Design & Development

• Design scalable, normalized database schemas.
• Develop and optimize T-SQL code including stored procedures, functions, and triggers.
• Implement indexing strategies and performance tuning solutions.
• Enforce data integrity through constraints and validation rules.
• Maintain detailed documentation for database structures and processes.
• Monitor and optimize performance using tools such as SolarWinds Database Performance Analyzer.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with DevOps and infrastructure teams on provisioning and system performance.
• Collaborate with engineering, QA, and product teams to align database solutions with business needs.
• Mentor developers and contribute to SQL-related code reviews and best practices.

Performance Expectations (KPIs)

• Availability: Maintain 99.9% uptime for production databases.
• Performance: Continuously monitor and optimize database performance.
• Security & Compliance: Ensure timely patching, auditing, and adherence to data policies.
• Backup & Recovery: Maintain reliable backup systems and meet RPO/RTO objectives.
• Incident Management: Lead resolution efforts and reduce recurring issues through automation and improvements.
• Cultural Alignment: Demonstrate core values including Integrity, Respect, Flexibility, Self-Evaluation, Knowledge, and Compassion.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (preferred).
• 7+ years of hands-on experience with Microsoft SQL Server in enterprise environments.
• Proven expertise in database design, performance tuning, and administration.

Technical Skills

• Expert-level knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server (2019-2025) and T-SQL.
• Experience with Azure SQL (VMs, Managed Instance, Azure SQL Database).
• Strong understanding of high-availability solutions (e.g., Always On Availability Groups).
• Familiarity with database security, system architecture, and scalability principles.

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
• Excellent documentation and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proactive mindset focused on automation and continuous improvement.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use.
• Frequent typing and use of standard office equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively via phone and video.
• Occasional lifting of up to 15 lbs and light movement within office settings.

Why Join Us

This role offers the opportunity to shape and lead the database strategy of a growing organization while working on mission-critical systems in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment.

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