We are seeking an experienced SQL Database Administrator (DBA) with over 5 years of expertise in managing SQL Server environments, ensuring the performance, security, and availability of critical databases. This position will involve hands-on responsibilities including the installation, configuration, securing, and management of SQL servers to guarantee optimal performance and high availability for our applications. If you are passionate about SQL database management, thrive in 24x7 production environments, and possess a strong understanding of both on-premises and cloud-based SQL server solutions, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

1. SQL Server Installation & Configuration. Set up and configure MS SQL Servers, ensuring that best practices for security, performance, and availability are followed. Ensure SQL Server installations meet the organization’s standards and are capable of handling growing data needs.
2. Security Implementation & Management. Utilize your expertise in SQL Server security to implement strong security measures and database permissions. Regularly audit security settings, configure firewalls, manage user roles and access rights, and enforce database security policies to safeguard sensitive data.
3. Database Backup & Recovery. Perform comprehensive database backup and recovery procedures. This includes setting up automated backups, testing recovery strategies, and monitoring backup jobs to ensure minimal data loss in case of failures. Develop and maintain disaster recovery (DR) and business continuity strategies for SQL Server environments.
4. Performance Tuning & Optimization. Continuously monitor SQL Server performance and make necessary optimizations to ensure the system is running at its highest efficiency. This includes analyzing queries, indexes, and execution plans, and making adjustments for resource usage and response time improvements.
5. Monitoring & Troubleshooting. Actively monitor SQL server performance through various built-in and custom tools, focusing on critical areas such as CPU, memory, disk utilization, database growth, and log monitoring. Respond to performance alerts, troubleshoot issues, and take corrective actions as necessary to maintain uninterrupted database availability.
6. SQL Server Agent Jobs & Maintenance Plans. Create, modify, and optimize SQL Server Agent jobs and maintenance plans for scheduled backups, indexing, and data integrity checks. Monitor and address any failures related to jobs, backups, or database growth to ensure smooth operations.
7. Azure SQL Database Management. Have a strong understanding of Azure SQL Database features, such as different pricing tiers, scaling options, high availability configurations, geo-replication, and managed instance capabilities. Experience with navigating the Azure portal to manage and monitor SQL databases, ensuring all configurations align with best practices for performance and security.
8. Database Migration to Azure SQL. Migrate existing on-premises SQL Server databases to Azure SQL Database using the Azure Data Migration Service. Ensure a seamless transition from on-premises databases to cloud-based solutions while maintaining data integrity and minimizing downtime.
9. Security Best Practices for Azure SQL. Implement security best practices for Azure SQL databases, including configuring firewalls, enabling encryption, managing authentication methods, and integrating with Azure Active Directory for secure access. Regularly review security protocols and adjust settings to mitigate any potential vulnerabilities.

Requirements

1. Experience. Minimum of 5 years working as a SQL Database Administrator, with proven expertise in managing and optimizing MS SQL Server environments in both production and development settings. Experience with 24x7 production environments is crucial.
2. Database Security. Expertise in implementing and managing MS SQL Server security practices and database permissions. A strong understanding of role-based access control (RBAC), encryption, and auditing is essential.
3. Backup & Recovery. Hands-on experience designing and implementing backup and recovery strategies, and troubleshooting failures related to backups and restores.
4. Performance Tuning & Optimization. Proficient in SQL performance tuning, query optimization, and utilizing SQL Server tools to monitor system health and performance.
5. Cloud Experience. Familiarity with Azure SQL Database features, including scalability options, pricing tiers, and high availability configurations. Proficient in managing databases in the Azure portal and knowledge of Azure Active Directory integration.
6. Migration Skills. Experience in migrating on-premises databases to Azure SQL Database, ensuring minimal downtime and maintaining database integrity throughout the migration process.
7. Communication & Collaboration. Strong communication skills to work collaboratively with development, operations, and security teams, ensuring the alignment of database solutions with business goals.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with PowerShell scripting for automating database tasks.
• Familiarity with other cloud platforms, such as AWS or Google Cloud.
• Knowledge of performance monitoring and diagnostic tools such as SQL Profiler, Extended Events, and Query Store.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity for an SQL DBA to contribute to critical projects and work with cutting-edge technologies in both on-premises and cloud environments. You will play a pivotal role in maintaining and improving the performance, security, and availability of our SQL Server databases. We offer a collaborative and dynamic work environment where innovation and continuous learning are encouraged. Join our team and make an impact with your SQL expertise.

If you are a passionate and experienced SQL DBA ready to take on new challenges in a growing and fast-paced environment, apply now!