Database Administrator

Cayuse Holdings • Washington, DC

8d • $151,000 - $153,441 • Onsite

About The Position

The Database Administrator designs, implements, and maintains moderately complex databases, ensuring their optimization, security, and integration within organizational systems. The role requires strong database management expertise, particularly with PostgreSQL, and responsibility for data integrity, database performance, database changes, and security measures. The position supports Cayuse’s values of Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Integrity by developing technical solutions for customer needs, collaborating with teams, and delivering quality work.

Employment in this role is conditional upon successful execution of the contract by the client. Qualifications may evolve when the client’s task order is finalized. The role is based in a professional office environment and requires the ability to work onsite in the main office. Flexible scheduling, work outside normal business hours, holiday work, and business or professional-development travel may be requested.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• At least 8 years of professional experience in database administration and management.
• Expertise with PostgreSQL version 13 or higher in medium- to large-scale deployments.
• Strong hands-on knowledge of database management systems, database design, administration, and optimization.
• Ability to implement scalable, efficient, and secure database solutions for enterprise needs.
• Deep understanding of backup and recovery processes and high-availability configurations in PostgreSQL environments.
• Experience with database migration projects to and from PostgreSQL, including exposure to AWS RDS or Aurora PostgreSQL.
• Proficiency in query optimization, indexing, and performance tuning.
• Experience setting up observability and monitoring tools, such as Prometheus/Grafana and custom dashboards.
• Active Top Secret Security Clearance.
• Ability to pass a background check; additional checks may be required by projects or clients during employment.
• Clear, professional, and articulate communication skills, including strong verbal and written communication.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with close attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities; adaptability and ability to learn quickly.
• Self-motivated, able to work independently and as part of a multifunctional team.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Ability to perform duties physically and mentally for extended periods.
• Ability to use a computer and office productivity tools at a speed sufficient for the role.
• Ability to establish a productive and professional workspace.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while looking at a computer screen.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain moderately complex databases for business and operational needs.
• Configure databases efficiently and maintain current database dictionaries.
• Integrate systems through effective and reliable database designs.
• Administer and test computer databases using advanced database management systems, especially PostgreSQL.
• Test databases to verify functionality and efficiency.
• Plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to protect databases from unauthorized access and data breaches.
• Administer, monitor, and maintain PostgreSQL version 13 or higher environments.
• Set up and configure database environments; perform patching, performance tuning, and capacity planning.
• Implement and validate backup and recovery procedures using tools such as pg_dump/pg_restore and WAL archiving.
• Configure, monitor, and manage PostgreSQL replication and high availability using physical and logical replication.
• Optimize queries and indexes using techniques and tools such as EXPLAIN/ANALYZE, partitioning, and pg_stat_statements.
• Plan and execute migrations to and from PostgreSQL, including migrations involving AWS RDS, Aurora PostgreSQL, and Oracle databases.
• Integrate PostgreSQL with existing IT infrastructures.
• Develop, configure, and deploy monitoring and alerting systems using tools such as Prometheus, Grafana, or similar platforms.
• Monitor and troubleshoot database performance metrics to proactively address bottlenecks.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Wellness program
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare, dependent care, and commuter expenses
• Short-term and long-term disability options
• Company-provided basic life and AD&D insurance
• Voluntary life and AD&D insurance options
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with matching after one year
• Paid time off

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior