SQL Server DBA

Hiring: W2 Candidates Only

Visa: Open to any visa type with valid work authorization in the USA

We are seeking an experienced SQL Server Database Administrator (DBA) to manage, optimize, secure, and support Microsoft SQL Server databases across production and non-production environments. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in SQL Server architecture, backup and recovery, performance tuning, high availability, and database security.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and administer SQL Server instances (on-premise and/or Azure SQL).
• Manage and monitor database performance, identifying and resolving bottlenecks in CPU, memory, I/O, or query execution.
• Perform performance tuning and optimization using indexing strategies, query plans, SQL Profiler, Extended Events, and DMVs.
• Create, monitor, and maintain backup and recovery strategies using native backups, log shipping, and third-party tools.
• Implement and manage High Availability (HA) and Disaster Recovery (DR) solutions such as:
  • Always On Availability Groups
  • Failover Clustering
  • Replication
  • Mirroring (legacy)
• Manage SQL Server security including authentication, permissions, roles, encryption, and auditing.
• Support SQL code deployment: stored procedures, functions, triggers, SSIS packages, and schema changes.
• Monitor database health, capacity, and growth using built-in tools and monitoring platforms.
• Troubleshoot database issues and provide 24/7 on-call support as needed for P1 incidents.
• Manage schema design, data modeling, and database normalization for performance and scalability.
• Ensure compliance with data governance, security policies, and industry standards.
• Collaborate with developers, BI teams, and infrastructure engineers for database requirements.
• Perform SQL Server upgrades, patching, migrations, and consolidation projects.
• Document database configurations, processes, and operational guidelines.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor s degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field.
• 4-10+ years experience as a SQL Server DBA in enterprise environments.
• Strong expertise in SQL Server versions 2012-2022.
• Advanced T-SQL skills for query analysis and optimization.
• Hands-on experience with HA/DR setups (Always On, Replication, Log Shipping).
• Experience with SQL Server Agent, Jobs, Alerts, and Automation.
• Strong understanding of database locking, deadlocks, isolation levels, and concurrency.
• Experience with SSMS, SSIS, SSRS, and SSAS (at least basic level).
• Knowledge of Windows Server administration and networking concepts.
• Ability to manage large, mission-critical databases.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Azure SQL, Azure Managed Instance, or AWS RDS for SQL Server.
• Knowledge of hybrid cloud database architectures.
• Familiarity with PowerShell for automation.
• Experience with monitoring tools such as SolarWinds DPA, Redgate, SentryOne, etc.
• Experience migrating databases to Azure cloud (IaaS/PaaS).
• Microsoft certifications (MCSA, MCSE, DP-300).