Salary: $90,096.00 - $121,176.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-07788
Department: Dept of Children, Youth, and Families
Division: Information Technology
Opening Date: 10/16/2026
Closing Date: 11/1/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionOur vision is to ensure that "Washington state's children and youth grow up safe and healthy -thriving physically, emotionally, and academically, nurtured by family and community."
Job Title: IT Data Management - Journey (Database Administrator Journey)
Location: Thurston County - Olympia, Washington
Closes: November 1st, 2026
Salary: $90,096.00 - $121,176.00 Annually
IT plays an important role in helping DCYF support children, youth, and families by providing the technology and systems staff need to deliver effective services. From supporting social workers and Juvenile Rehabilitation facilities to developing innovative solutions, DCYF IT helps staff work more efficiently and improve outcomes for children and families across Washington.
Click here to learn more about
The Opportunity:We are seeking an experienced Database Administrator to join our mission-driven team of Data Management professionals. This is an opportunity to advance the DCYF mission of serving children, youth and families through continual improvement of Data Management services. This position will act as the Data Management representative for database security, disaster recovery/business continuity and data estate analysis. Additionally, this position will provide analysis of DCYF data assets to leadership and customers. The successful candidate must be able to work professionally & effectively with a wide variety of partners and stakeholders. Microsoft MSSQL administration & architecture experience required. Experience with Azure DevOps, Microsoft Purview and Microsoft Power Platform desired.
Some of what you will get to do:- Ensures the availability, integrity and quality of DCYF databases and related standards, processes and procedures.
- Works with Enterprise Architecture and Development teams to continuously improve database architecture standards and practices.
- Ensures data security via regular audits. Ensures security compliance with legal & DCYF standards. Continuously improves data security processes and procedures.
- Conducts database code reviews as needed.
- Implementing and exercising database disaster recovery plans.
- Providing consultation to senior management to ensure the effective use of existing and emerging data technologies.
- Monitors, analyzes and reports data estate metadata.
- Research and prototypes new upgrades and technology to improve database performance and functionality.
- Provide Data Management expertise to business continuity & disaster recovery planning.
- Analyze and tune configuration and performance of resources across the DCYF data estate.
- Develop, maintain and implement database security plans, ensuring compliance with security and privacy requirements.
- Provide consultation to senior management to ensure the effective use of existing and emerging data technologies.
Required Qualifications:Five years of progressively more complex problem solving experience as a Database Administrator/ Architect of large-scale databases with mission critical business functions.
ORBachelor's degree or higher in computer science, data management, information systems or related field
AND Four (4) years of progressively more complex problem solving experience as a Database Administrator of large-scale databases with mission critical business functions
AND- Working knowledge of relational database administration and development techniques for Microsoft SQL Server including installation, profiling, monitoring and optimization.
- Working knowledge of SQL server configuration including clustering, high availability, logging, encryption settings, backup and recovery strategies.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience working in a highly regulated environment where IT assets and data are subject to a broad range of State and federal information security requirements and regulations.
- Two (2) years of MSSQL database administration experience.
AND - The ability to take action to learn and grow
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
Additional required qualifications:- Two years of practical experience administering MSSQL security.
- Working knowledge of relational database administration and development techniques for Microsoft SQL Server including installation, profiling, monitoring and optimization.
- Working knowledge of SQL server configuration including clustering, high availability, logging, encryption settings, backup and recovery strategies.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; Experience working in a highly regulated environment where IT assets and data are subject to a broad range of State and federal information security requirements and regulations.
Desirable/Preferred Qualifications:- Thorough understanding of Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS)
- SQL certification or knowledge of SQL Server TSQL
- CISSP certification
- Knowledge of distributed monitoring tools like Redgate Monitor, Splunk or LogicMonitor
- Knowledge of Microsoft Purview, SQL replication, PowerShell and Agile Training.
How do I apply?Complete your applicant profile on careers.wa.gov and attach the following documents:
- Current resume detailing experience and education.
- Letter of Interest that details how you meet the qualifications for the position.
Supplemental Information:The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington's children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability.
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
For more information about this position or if you need an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, please contact If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at or emailPersons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at .
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference
MUST attach a copy of their DD214, NGB Form 22 or Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission). If claiming preference based on Predischarge Certification, individual will be required to provide their official discharge documentation, such as a DD form 214, NGB form 22, or equivalent, within 30 days after the date of discharge. Please blackout (redact) the social security number before attaching any documents. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible,
DCYF participates in the federal E-Verify program. The selected candidate must provide proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States, consistent with E-Verify requirements, on their first day of employment
More than Just a Paycheck!Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance BenefitsEmployees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred CompensationState Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social SecurityAll state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan ForgivenessIf you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for
exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military LeaveWashington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional LeaveLeave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Please select the best way you qualify for this position:
- Five years of progressively more complex problem solving experience as a Database Administrator/ Architect of large-scale databases with mission critical business functions.
- Bachelor's degree or higher in computer science, data management, information systems or related field AND Four (4) years of progressively more complex problem solving experience as a Database Administrator of large-scale databases with mission critical business functions.
- None of these.
02
Which of the following best describes your level of experience administering MSSQL security, including configuration, analysis, monitoring and remediation?
- Willing (Little or no experience or training regarding this competency, but interested and willing to learn).
- Developing (Developing knowledge and skills regarding this competency through completion of an employer sponsored training or higher education program, OR through at least 6 months of experience applying the competency in the workplace).
- Skilled (Successfully and regularly applied the competency in the workplace. Recognized by others as demonstrating ample knowledge and skills regarding the competency. Generally, this is achieved through 1 to 3 years of experience).
- Expert (Application of this competency is polished to excellence and is extensive in nature. Recognized by others as demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 3 or more years of experience).
- None of the above
03
If you indicated that you have experience administering MSSQL security, including configuration, analysis, monitoring and remediation, please explain your experience. If you answered no, please type N/A in the text box below.
04
Which of the following best describes your level of experience monitoring performance of an enterprise data estate, including architecture and metadata analysis?
- Willing (Little or no experience or training regarding this competency, but interested and willing to learn).
- Developing (Developing knowledge and skills regarding this competency through completion of an employer sponsored training or higher education program, OR through at least 6 months of experience applying the competency in the workplace).
- Skilled (Successfully and regularly applied the competency in the workplace. Recognized by others as demonstrating ample knowledge and skills regarding the competency. Generally, this is achieved through 1 to 3 years of experience).
- Expert (Application of this competency is polished to excellence and is extensive in nature. Recognized by others as demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 3 or more years of experience).
- None of the above
05
If you indicated that you have experience monitoring performance of an enterprise data estate, including architecture and metadata analysis, please explain your experience. If you answered no, please type N/A in the text box below.
06
Which of the following best describes your level of experience developing, maintaining, testing, or executing disaster recovery plans, runbooks, recovery procedures, or technical recovery documentation?
- Willing (Little or no experience or training regarding this competency, but interested and willing to learn).
- Developing (Developing knowledge and skills regarding this competency through completion of an employer sponsored training or higher education program, OR through at least 6 months of experience applying the competency in the workplace).
- Skilled (Successfully and regularly applied the competency in the workplace. Recognized by others as demonstrating ample knowledge and skills regarding the competency. Generally, this is achieved through 1 to 3 years of experience).
- Expert (Application of this competency is polished to excellence and is extensive in nature. Recognized by others as demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 3 or more years of experience).
- None of the above.
07
If you indicated that you have experience developing, maintaining, testing, or executing disaster recovery plans, runbooks, recovery procedures, or technical recovery documentation, please explain your experience. If you answered no, please type N/A in the text box below.
08
If you selected 'College/university career fair or website', 'Diversity network meeting/event', 'Online job boards', or 'Other' above, please specify which college, university, diversity network meeting/event, online job boards and/or describe 'Other' below.
09
How did you hear about this career opportunity (select all that apply)?
- Washington State's career website: ;/li>
- Washington State Work Source office or website (Go2WorkSource.com)
- Washington State employee
- DCYF Recruiter
- College/university career fair or website
- Diversity network meeting/event
- Indeed
- LinkedIn
- ZipRecruiter
- Handshake
- Other
Required Question
