SQL Server DBA with AWS Experience

Location: Remote
Employment Type: Contract

We are seeking a talented and detail-oriented SQL Server Database Administrator (DBA) with expertise in both SQL Server and AWS to join our team. The ideal candidate will possess deep knowledge of database administration, performance tuning, and cloud technologies, particularly within the AWS ecosystem. This role involves ensuring the reliability, availability, and scalability of database solutions to support mission-critical applications and business processes.

Key Responsibilities

1. Database Administration
   • Install, configure, and maintain SQL Server databases on both on-premises and cloud environments.
   • Perform routine database maintenance tasks, including backups, restores, and data recovery.
   • Monitor database performance, troubleshoot issues, and optimize SQL queries for efficiency.
2. Cloud Database Management
   • Deploy and manage SQL Server instances on AWS services like EC2, RDS, and Aurora.
   • Utilize AWS tools for backup, recovery, monitoring, and scaling databases.
   • Migrate on-premises databases to AWS cloud environments using tools like DMS and Schema Conversion Tool.
3. Performance Tuning and Optimization
   • Conduct database health checks and implement performance tuning strategies.
   • Optimize indexing, query execution plans, and database configurations for high performance.
   • Implement database partitioning and other advanced optimization techniques.
4. Security and Compliance
   • Implement robust database security practices, including user authentication, encryption, and auditing.
   • Ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) and company policies.
   • Manage access controls and roles for database environments.
5. High Availability and Disaster Recovery
   • Design and implement HA/DR solutions using SQL Server Always On, Mirroring, or Log Shipping.
   • Set up and maintain automated failover solutions in AWS, ensuring minimal downtime.
   • Test and validate recovery strategies to ensure business continuity.
6. Collaboration and Communication
   • Work closely with development teams to support application changes and optimize database interactions.
   • Provide technical guidance and support to stakeholders regarding database capabilities and limitations.
   • Document database configurations, processes, and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Experience:
  • 7+ years of experience as a SQL Server DBA.
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience with AWS database services (RDS, Aurora, EC2-hosted databases).
  • Proven experience with database migration from on-premises to cloud environments.
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong expertise in SQL Server administration, including backups, restores, and performance tuning.
  • Proficiency in AWS tools like CloudWatch, IAM, S3, and Lambda for database management.
  • Familiarity with database monitoring and optimization tools.
  • Knowledge of scripting languages (PowerShell, Python) for automation.
• Soft Skills:
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication skills to collaborate with technical and non-technical teams.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with other cloud platforms such as Azure or GCP.
• Familiarity with NoSQL databases (DynamoDB, MongoDB) and hybrid database environments.
• Relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Database – Specialty or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate.