Principal Database Administrator – Microsoft SQL Server
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Job Description
Principal Database Administrator guiding SQL Server architecture and strategy for supply chain software solutions. Leading disaster recovery and migration projects in a high-availability environment.
Responsibilities:
- Own the architecture, strategy, and long-term roadmap for SQL Server ecosystems (on-premises, multi-cloud).
- Design and implement high-availability and disaster recovery solutions using Always On Availability Groups, Failover Clustering, and native HA/DR features.
- Lead performance tuning at scale: query optimization, indexing strategies, statistics management, wait stats analysis, memory/CPU/I/O pressure resolution, and use of tools like Query Store, Extended Events, and DMVs.
- Architect and automate backup/recovery strategies (full, differential, transaction log, point-in-time recovery, long-term retention) with encryption, compression, and validation testing.
- Drive large-scale migrations, upgrades (e.g., SQL 2016/2019 → 2022/2025), consolidation projects, and cloud transitions while minimizing downtime.
- Establish and enforce database security best practices: least-privilege access, auditing. (GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2, etc.).
- Proactively monitor and maintain hundreds of SQL Server instances using tools such as SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), PowerShell, dbatools, and custom monitoring frameworks.
- Automate repetitive DBA tasks via PowerShell, T-SQL, dbatools.
- Serve as escalation point for critical production incidents; perform root-cause analysis and implement preventive measures.
- Provide technical leadership: mentor senior and mid-level DBAs, conduct design reviews, author standards/guidelines, and present to executive stakeholders.
- Evaluate emerging SQL Server features and third-party tools; recommend adoption strategies.
- Collaborate on capacity planning, cost optimization, and disaster recovery drills.
Requirements:
- 10–15+ years of hands-on Microsoft SQL Server administration experience in large-scale, 24×7 production environments.
- Deep expertise in SQL Server 2016 through current versions (2022/2025), including Always On, Query Store, intelligent performance features, and security enhancements.
- Expert-level T-SQL development, query tuning, and indexing knowledge.
- Strong scripting/automation skills in PowerShell (dbatools module highly desired) and familiarity with DevOps practices (Git, CI/CD for database changes).
- Experience leading migrations, upgrades, and HA/DR implementations with near-zero downtime requirements.
- Solid understanding of Windows Server, storage subsystems (SAN, NVMe), virtualization (VMware/Hyper-V), and networking impacts on SQL performance.
- Excellent troubleshooting skills under pressure; ability to analyze complex issues using DMVs, XEvents, PerfMon, and trace flags.
- Exceptional problem-solver with calm demeanor during outages.
- Strong communicator — can explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
- Proactive, self-directed, and passionate about database reliability and performance.
- Team player who enjoys mentoring and knowledge sharing.
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- 401(k) matching
- Flexible work hours
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
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