Senior SQL Server DBA - Data Modeling & Architecture

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Senior SQL Server Database Administrator with strong expertise in data modeling, database architecture, and performance optimization. The ideal candidate will design scalable data models, build robust database architectures, and manage SQL Server environments to ensure high availability, security, and optimal performance.

Key Responsibilities

1. Data Modeling & Architecture

• Design conceptual, logical, and physical data models.

• Develop scalable OLTP/OLAP database architectures.

• Create and enforce data standards, naming conventions, and modeling best practices.

• Partner with application architects to align data design with system workflows.

2. Database Administration

• Install, configure, upgrade, and maintain SQL Server environments (2014-2022/Azure SQL).

• Administer Always On Availability Groups, clustering, log shipping, and replication.

• Manage backup/restore strategies and disaster recovery planning.

3. Performance Tuning & Optimization

• Analyze and tune SQL queries, indexing strategies, statistics, and execution plans.

• Resolve locking/blocking issues, parameter sniffing, and resource bottlenecks.

• Implement partitioning, compression, and storage optimization techniques.

4. Security & Compliance

• Implement RBAC, TDE, Always Encrypted, auditing, and data masking.

• Maintain compliance with organizational and regulatory security standards.

• Ensure database hardening and controlled deployments.

5. Automation & DevOps

• Automate repetitive tasks using PowerShell and T-SQL scripts.

• Support CI/CD pipeline integration for database deployments.

• Build monitoring and alerting solutions for performance and health checks.

6. Collaboration & Documentation

• Work closely with developers, architects, and data teams to improve database design.

• Review T-SQL code and provide performance recommendations.

• Maintain documentation for data models, architecture diagrams, and DBA procedures.

• Mentor junior DBAs and contribute to data governance initiatives.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• 7-12+ years of experience as a SQL Server DBA.

• Strong expertise in data modeling, normalization, and relational design.

• Solid understanding of OLTP and OLAP database structures.

• Advanced T-SQL scripting and query optimization skills.

• Hands-on experience with Always On AGs, clustering, and high-availability solutions.

• Knowledge of Azure SQL, Managed Instance, and hybrid cloud environments.

• Proficiency with monitoring tools (e.g., Redgate, SentryOne, SolarWinds DPA).

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

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with ER modeling tools (ERwin, ER/Studio, Visio).

• Azure certifications (AZ-900, DP-300, DP-203).

• Familiarity with DevOps pipelines (Azure DevOps, Git, CI/CD).

• Knowledge of ETL / Data Warehousing environments.