Senior SQL Server Database Administrator (Hybrid)
Philadelphia, PA
Contracted
Experienced
Job Title: Senior SQL Server Database Administrator (Hybrid)
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Duration: 06 Months
Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior SQL Server Database Administrator to join our dynamic IT team. This role is critical to ensure the performance, reliability, and scalability of our enterprise database systems. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in SQL Server, with a strong emphasis on performance tuning, query optimization, and troubleshooting in high-volume, mission-critical environments. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including Application Development, Server Administration, Networking, and other DBAs—to proactively identify and resolve performance bottlenecks and contribute to strategic database initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Qualifications:
Additional Skills (Preferred but Not Required):
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Duration: 06 Months
Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior SQL Server Database Administrator to join our dynamic IT team. This role is critical to ensure the performance, reliability, and scalability of our enterprise database systems. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in SQL Server, with a strong emphasis on performance tuning, query optimization, and troubleshooting in high-volume, mission-critical environments. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including Application Development, Server Administration, Networking, and other DBAs—to proactively identify and resolve performance bottlenecks and contribute to strategic database initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead performance tuning efforts across large-scale SQL Server environments with high transaction volumes.
- Analyze and optimize SQL queries, indexes, and database configurations to improve application responsiveness.
- Monitor and troubleshoot database performance using tools such as:
- Idera SQL Diagnostic Manager
- Query Store
- SQL Server Profiler
- Dynatrace
- Evaluate index statistics and fragmentation; recommend and implement improvements.
- Develop and maintain documentation of performance best practices for use by development and DBA teams.
- Manage core DBA functions including installation, upgrades, backup/recovery, and high availability (e.g., Always On Failover Clustering).
- Participate in capacity planning and performance forecasting.
- Collaborate with development teams to improve database-related application processes.
- Escalate complex issues and coordinate resolution with internal and external resources.
- Apply administration best practices in daily operations and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.
- Participation in a 24/7 Production support call rotation.
- Willingness to learn and support other Database managements systems as needed (BigQuery, MySQL, PostGreSQL).
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 10+ years of hands-on experience as a SQL Server DBA in enterprise environments.
- Proven experience in high-transaction systems such as ecommerce, banking, or financial services.
- Strong understanding of database file structures, access methods, and performance analysis.
- Advanced knowledge of SQL Server tools and technologies: SSMS, SSIS, SSRS, Always On, etc.
- Demonstrated ability to lead tuning efforts and mentor junior DBAs.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Familiarity with application/database interaction and optimization strategies.
- Industry-recognized certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified Database Administrator) preferred.
Additional Skills (Preferred but Not Required):
- Experience with Java in performance-sensitive applications.
- Familiarity with Python for automation or scripting tasks.
- Exposure to MuleSoft (Mule) integration platform.
- Understanding of cloud-based SQL Server deployments (e.g., Azure SQL).
- Knowledge of DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines involving database components.
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