SC Cleared SQL Database Administrator

We are seeking a skilled and motivated SQL Database Administrator (DBA) to join our Database Services team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the administration, maintenance, performance optimization, and security of Microsoft SQL Server environments. The role requires experience supporting production databases, troubleshooting complex issues, implementing database changes, and ensuring high availability and data integrity.The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with a proactive approach to problem-solving and effective collaboration with application, infrastructure, and support teams.Key ResponsibilitiesDatabase Administration

• Administer, maintain, and support Microsoft SQL Server environments.
• Perform database installations, configuration, upgrades, patching, and migrations.
• Manage databases, instances, security settings, users, roles, and permissions.
• Ensure database availability, reliability, and operational stability.

Performance & Optimization

• Monitor and optimize database performance.
• Investigate and resolve performance bottlenecks, locking issues, and query-related problems.
• Analyze execution plans and implement indexing strategies.
• Support application teams in SQL query tuning and database optimization.

Backup, Recovery & High Availability

• Design, implement, and maintain backup and recovery strategies.
• Perform database restores and disaster recovery testing.
• Support and maintain High Availability (HA) and Disaster Recovery (DR) solutions such as:
  • Always On Availability Groups
  • Log Shipping
  • Replication
  • Database Mirroring (where applicable)

Incident & Problem Management

• Troubleshoot and resolve database incidents within agreed service levels.
• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring issues.
• Participate in on-call support rotations when required.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure timely issue resolution.

Security & Compliance

• Implement database security best practices.
• Ensure compliance with organizational security standards and policies.
• Perform regular audits, vulnerability assessments, and access reviews.
• Support data protection and regulatory compliance initiatives.

Documentation & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain accurate technical documentation, procedures, and operational runbooks.
• Develop and enhance automation scripts for routine DBA activities.
• Identify opportunities to improve database performance, availability, and operational efficiency.
• Contribute to process improvement and technical standards.

Required QualificationsEducation

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience

• 3-5 years of hands-on experience as a SQL Server DBA.
• Experience managing production SQL Server environments.
• Proven experience with backup/recovery, database upgrades, migrations, and performance tuning.

Technical Skills

• Microsoft SQL Server Administration (2016/2019/2022 preferred).
• T-SQL development and troubleshooting.
• Performance monitoring and tuning.
• Backup and recovery solutions.
• High Availability and Disaster Recovery technologies.
• SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
• Database security and access management.
• Windows Server fundamentals.
• PowerShell or scripting for automation.

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Experience with Azure SQL Database, Managed Instance, or SQL Server on Azure VM.
• Knowledge of PostgreSQL, Oracle, or MySQL administration.
• Experience with monitoring tools such as SCOM, SolarWinds, Redgate, or SQL Sentry.
• Exposure to DevOps, Infrastructure as Code, or CI/CD practices.
• Microsoft SQL certifications.

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