DB2 Database Administrator

Job#: 3030552

Job Description:

Senior Database Administrator (DBA) - IBM i (AS/400) DB2 & SQL Server

Location: Remote

Employment Type: Contract

Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Database Administrator (DBA) with deep expertise in IBM i (AS/400) DB2 and strong working knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server. This role focuses on advanced performance engineering, index optimization, schema refinement, and long-term modernization of enterprise databases that have been in continuous production for more than 15 years.

The ideal candidate is a senior-level DBA capable of leading database optimization efforts, advising on architectural improvements, and helping prepare our environment for a future migration from DB2 to SQL Server.

Primary Objectives

• Lead all DBA-level optimization and tuning activities within DB2 for i
• Modernize and refine database schemas, indexing strategies, and access paths
• Diagnose and remediate performance bottlenecks across transactional and batch workloads
• Improve query performance, especially those spanning millions of rows
• Support planning efforts for a future transition to Microsoft SQL Server

Core Responsibilities

DBA Leadership

• Administer and optimize DB2 for i databases across critical production environments
• Perform DBA-level management and maintenance of Microsoft SQL Server
• Ensure database availability, integrity, and performance across all systems

Performance Engineering

• Analyze index strategies, access paths, constraints, and tuning implications
• Gather and interpret I/O statistics, performance plans, and system-level metrics
• Identify root causes of slow SQL operations and long-running batch jobs
• Refactor or recommend improvements for complex, high-volume queries

Schema Optimization

• Normalize and refine table structures developed over 15+ years
• Advise on modernization of schema design, relationships, and data models
• Improve architectural efficiency to reduce redundancy and improve data quality

ETL Development & Data Movement

• Apply ETL best practices in both DB2 and SQL Server ecosystems
• Develop custom transformations, loaders, and efficient data movement techniques
• Provide guidance on future data integration and migration workflows

Data Storage & Partitioning

• Recommend and implement partitioning strategies to improve performance and maintainability
• Optimize data storage, file organization, and database object layout

Data Warehouse Knowledge (Optional)

• Explain distinctions between transactional systems and data warehouses
• Highlight how design choices differ between OLTP and analytical workloads

Experience Requirements

• 15+ years in enterprise database administration, with a strong emphasis on IBM i (AS/400) DB2
• Deep hands-on expertise with:
  • Index tuning and optimization
  • Query analysis and performance troubleshooting
  • Legacy databases with long operational histories
  • Schema design, normalization, and data model refinement
• Solid experience with Microsoft SQL Server (administration + engineering)
• Prior involvement in or advisory support for DB2 SQL Server migrations (strong preference)

Compensation & Benefits

The anticipated pay range for this position is $70.00 to $90.00 per hour. Please note that the final pay rate will be determined based on a variety of factors, including the candidate's experience, skills, and qualifications.

This employer is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details.

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Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details.

Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide.