Manager, Database Operations

Kapitus

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Manager, Database Operations, to lead and manage enterprise-scale databases in AWS RDS ecosystem. This role is responsible for ensuring the availability, security, performance, and scalability of all database platforms while supporting engineering teams and driving operational excellence through proactive management and automation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
10+ years of database administration/operations experience, with 3+ years in a leadership or managerial role.
Strong hands-on experience with AWS RDS (e.g., Aurora, MySQL, SQL Server, etc).
Proven experience with Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, CloudFormation, CDK)
Deep knowledge of database patching, backup/recovery, HA, and DR strategies
Experience integrating database deployments into CI/CD pipelines (Jenkins, GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps, etc.)
Proven expertise in performance tuning and troubleshooting at scale.
Strong scripting skills (Python, Bash, PowerShell)

Nice To Haves

AWS certifications (e.g., AWS Solutions Architect, Database Specialty).
Experience with automation tools (Terraform, CloudFormation, scripting).
Familiarity with monitoring and observability tools (CloudWatch, Datadog, ).
Experience operating databases in regulated or high-availability environments (24x7 systems).
Experience with containerized workloads (EKS, ECS)
Knowledge of GitOps practices
Experience with Delphix for database virtualization, data masking, and test data management is highly desirable

Responsibilities

Own end-to-end operations for all databases hosted in AWS RDS (Aurora, MySQL, SQL Server, etc.).
Architect and maintain high-availability, multi-AZ, and disaster recovery configurations.
Drive cost optimization and right-sizing strategies across cloud database infrastructure.
Define and enforce database operational standards, best practices, and governance policies.
Build & maintain infrastructure using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) & Automation principle.
Integrate database changes into CI/CD pipelines to support automated, reliable deployments.
Plan and execute all database maintenance activities, including:
Vulnerability remediation
Security patching
Version upgrades and minor/major releases
Ensure databases comply with internal security policies, audit requirements, and industry best practices.
Partner closely with engineering and application teams to support database design, provisioning, deployment, and release activities.
Provide architectural guidance on database selection, configuration, scaling, and cost optimization within AWS RDS.
Collaborate with engineering teams to:
Implement database migration strategies
Automate schema deployments
Support blue/green and zero-downtime deployment models
Ensure database components align with DevOps and SRE principles.
Establish automated validation, rollback, and compliance controls within deployment pipelines.
Lead proactive performance tuning initiatives.
Implement monitoring, alerting, and observability best practices (CloudWatch, Datadog, etc.).
Perform capacity planning and workload forecasting.
Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and implement preventive improvements.
Participate in and manage on-call rotation as defined by the department.
Lead major incident response and post-incident reviews.
Drive continuous improvement to reduce MTTD/MTTR and incident recurrence.
Lead and mentor database engineers/DBAs.
Drive automation-first culture and eliminate manual operational tasks.
Establish KPIs for availability, performance, cost efficiency, and deployment reliability.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Infrastructure, Security, DevOps, and SRE teams.

Benefits

Competitive Base Salary Range of $120,400-$193,200 Kapitus is providing this as a good faith salary range to comply with applicable law. The applicant’s final salary will depend on a number of factors including the applicant’s geographic location, skills, and experience.
Annual Incentive Compensation Eligibility – Up to 15% annually
Health Insurance: We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and employer-paid vision plans through UnitedHealthcare (UHC), with various coverage levels available to meet the needs of our employees and their families.
100% Company Paid Insurances: Kapitus fully covers the cost of basic short-term and long-term disability insurance, as well as vision insurance, ensuring our employees have comprehensive protection without any personal expense.
Voluntary Insurance: Supplemental life insurance as well as enhanced short- and long-term disability coverage are available through Mutual of Omaha, providing additional security for our employees. Additionally, Colonial Accident and Hospitalization insurances are also available, offering further protection against unforeseen events.
Paid Maternity and Parental Leave: Beyond state-mandated leave policies, Kapitus provides company-paid maternity and parental leave, supporting our employees during important family milestones.
LifeBalance Program: Enhance your lifestyle with our LifeBalance membership, which offers discounts on outdoor activities, the arts, health, and fitness. Additional benefits include:
Pet and car insurance discounts.
Financial services such as LegalShield.
Relaxation and stress management tools, including a fully covered annual subscription to The Calm App.
Plum Benefits Discount Program: Access exclusive discounts on shows, travel, car rentals, and more, enriching your personal and family life.
Tuition Reimbursement: Pursue further education with up to $5,000 annually in tuition reimbursement, plus opportunities to attend relevant conferences and career development events.
Transit Reimbursement: We also offer transit reimbursement for all work-related travel, supporting your involvement in career and personal development activities.
Paid Time Off and Sick Time
Retirement Benefits: Our 401K plan is managed through Fidelity, featuring a 25% match on employee contributions, helping you plan for a secure financial future.