Overview
Skills
Job Details
Senior SQL Database Administrator (DBA) - Onsite in Houston, TX - Contract-to-Hire
Location: Houston, TX (100% Onsite)
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire | Long-Term/Ongoing
Experience Level: Senior (8+ Years)
Company: iSphere - IT Staffing and Solutions
Opportunity Overview:
iSphere is seeking a Senior SQL Database Administrator (DBA) to join an in-office technical team supporting complex data environments in Houston, TX. This long-term, contract-to-hire position is ideal for an experienced professional with deep SQL expertise, a passion for optimization, and a solid understanding of data integrity, ETL workflows, and replication. You'll play a critical role in maintaining, tuning, and advancing the organization's SQL Server infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:
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Administer, configure, and maintain Microsoft SQL Server databases
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Design, develop, and optimize T-SQL scripts, stored procedures, and functions
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Monitor and improve database performance through indexing, query tuning, and proactive diagnostics
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Manage ETL workflows using SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS)
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Implement and support Change Data Capture (CDC) and data replication strategies (SQL and Qlik)
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Develop robust backup, recovery, and disaster recovery procedures
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Collaborate with developers, analysts, and operations teams to support mission-critical applications
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Ensure high levels of data availability, integrity, and security
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Maintain clear documentation for database systems, configurations, and policies
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Provide occasional after-hours support for deployments and critical incidents
Required Skills & Qualifications:
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8+ years of hands-on experience as a SQL Database Administrator
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Advanced proficiency in T-SQL, query tuning, indexing, and database architecture
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Deep experience with MS SQL Server administration and development
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Expertise in ETL processing, especially with SSIS
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Familiarity with SQL CDC and data replication, including integration with Qlik
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Strong grasp of data warehousing principles and database security best practices
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Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills
Preferred / Bonus Skills:
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Experience with NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Elasticsearch, RavenDB)
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Working knowledge of PostgreSQL
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Exposure to cloud-based database platforms (e.g., Azure SQL, AWS RDS)
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Familiarity with SQL Sentry for performance monitoring
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Understanding of IIS and RabbitMQ environments
Why Join iSphere?
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Be part of a growing, stable project with long-term potential
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Work in a collaborative environment with skilled developers and IT professionals
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Play a key role in shaping database strategy, performance, and security
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Onsite role with full engagement in critical systems and business functions