SQL Server DBA

Unidor•Plano, TX

18h

About The Position

The Senior Database Administrator designs, manages, and optimizes SQL Server databases, with a strong emphasis on Microsoft Azure cloud solutions. The role ensures the performance, scalability, security, and governance of database systems critical to business operations. It leads Azure-based database initiatives, enforces data security and governance policies, safeguards sensitive data, and ensures compliance with organizational and regulatory standards. The role also mentors team members and aligns database solutions with business objectives.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Strong proficiency in T-SQL, SQL Server administration, performance optimization, and secure, governed database design.
In-depth knowledge of data security practices, including encryption and access controls, and data governance principles, including data quality, lineage, and compliance.
Expertise in Azure security tools such as Azure Defender, Key Vault, and network security groups, and governance tools such as Azure Purview and data cataloging.
Familiarity with PowerShell scripting for SQL Server, Azure automation, security, and governance management.
Excellent analytical skills and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating security risks and ensuring data governance.
Strong communication skills to collaborate with technical teams and explain security and governance practices to non-technical stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Microsoft certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate, Microsoft Certified: Data Management and Analytics, and/or Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals.
Knowledge of additional Azure data tools, such as Azure Data Lake, Azure Synapse Analytics, and Azure Purview, and their secure, governed implementation.
Familiarity with hybrid cloud database architectures and secure, governed data synchronization between on-premises SQL Server and Azure.

Responsibilities

Design, deploy, and manage Microsoft SQL Server databases on-premises and in Azure, including Azure SQL Database and Azure SQL Managed Instance, using secure and governed architectures.
Optimize SQL Server performance through query tuning, index management, and resource optimization while adhering to Azure data governance and security standards.
Implement and enforce data security measures, including encryption, Azure Active Directory authentication, and role-based access control.
Establish and maintain data governance frameworks for data classification, lineage tracking, and metadata management.
Develop and execute backup, recovery, and high-availability strategies using Azure Blob Storage, Azure Backup, and Always On Availability Groups.
Monitor and respond to security threats using Azure Defender for SQL, audit logs, and compliance tools while upholding governance policies.
Troubleshoot and resolve complex database, security, and governance issues across SQL Server and Azure SQL platforms.
Collaborate with development teams to design secure, efficient, and governed database schemas for Azure-hosted applications.
Automate database administration, security, and governance tasks using T-SQL, PowerShell, and Azure Automation.
Conduct security assessments, vulnerability scans, and data governance audits of Azure database resources to meet regulatory requirements.
Lead migrations from on-premises SQL Server instances to Azure cloud database services, ensuring secure data transfer, validation, and governance compliance.
Provide expertise on Azure data services, including Azure Data Factory and Azure Synapse Analytics, and their secure data transfer, validation, and governance compliance.
Work with stakeholders to define and enforce data policies, standards, and procedures, ensuring data accessibility, accuracy, and accountability.
Mentor junior DBAs and IT staff on Microsoft database technologies, Azure best practices, data security protocols, and data governance principles.