SQL Database Administrator (DBA) - w2 only - USC

Job Title:

SQL Database Administrator (DBA)

Client: State of Arkansas

Location: Little Rock, AR (Hybrid – Onsite presence required)

Employment Type: W2 Only

Rate: Up to $45/hour

Duration: Long-term Contract

Job Summary

The State of Arkansas is seeking an experienced SQL Database Administrator (DBA) to support and manage enterprise-level Microsoft SQL Server environments. The DBA will be responsible for ensuring high availability, performance, security, and reliability of databases supporting critical state applications. This role requires strong hands-on SQL Server administration experience and the ability to work in a hybrid environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, upgrade, and maintain Microsoft SQL Server instances (2016, 2019, 2022).

• Monitor database performance and proactively identify and resolve performance bottlenecks.

• Perform database tuning, including query optimization, indexing strategies, and statistics management.

• Manage database backups, restores, and disaster recovery processes to ensure data integrity and availability.

• Implement and maintain high-availability and failover solutions such as AlwaysOn Availability Groups, clustering, or log shipping.

• Ensure database security by managing roles, permissions, encryption, and auditing.

• Support application development teams with database design, schema changes, and deployment support.

• Troubleshoot and resolve production and non-production database issues.

• Perform routine maintenance tasks including patching, upgrades, and scheduled jobs.

• Create and maintain technical documentation related to database architecture, processes, and procedures.

• Participate in on-call support and after-hours maintenance as required.

Required Qualifications

• 4–7+ years of hands-on experience as a SQL Database Administrator.

• Strong expertise in Microsoft SQL Server administration and T-SQL development.

• Experience with performance monitoring tools, query tuning, and execution plan analysis.

• Hands-on experience with backup and recovery strategies and disaster recovery planning.

• Solid understanding of SQL Server security best practices.

• Experience supporting large, mission-critical databases in production environments.

• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in government or public sector environments.

• Exposure to cloud-based SQL platforms (Azure SQL, AWS RDS for SQL Server).

• Knowledge of automation and scripting (PowerShell).

• Familiarity with compliance, audit requirements, and data governance standards.

Work Environment

• Hybrid schedule with onsite work required in Little Rock, AR.

• W2 employment only (No C2C or 1099).

• Collaborative environment working with application teams, infrastructure, and security teams.

Why This Role

• Stable long-term project with a State client.

• Competitive W2 rate aligned with market standards.

• Opportunity to work on enterprise-scale systems supporting public services.