About the Role
Our Client is seeking a skilled Database Administrator to manage and optimize Microsoft SQL Server environments across production, staging, and development systems. The role will be based in Columbus, Ohio, with an initial remote arrangement that may transition to an on‑site presence at 1221 McKinley Avenue. You will collaborate closely with development teams, security officers, and IT operations to ensure high availability, performance, and compliance of critical data assets. Your work will directly support the state’s mission by keeping essential applications reliable and secure. This position offers a chance to influence database strategy and contribute to enterprise‑wide data governance.
Key Responsibilities
- Install, configure, patch, and upgrade SQL Server instances across multiple environments.
- Design, test, and maintain backup and disaster recovery plans, including Always On Availability Groups and Log Shipping.
- Monitor system health, analyze performance metrics, and tune queries and indexes to eliminate bottlenecks.
- Implement role‑based access control, encryption, and other security controls in line with state regulations.
- Develop and maintain automation scripts in T‑SQL and PowerShell for routine DBA tasks.
- Collaborate with developers to review and optimize stored procedures, triggers, and complex queries.
- Document installation procedures, configuration changes, and best‑practice guidelines for the development team.
- Participate in on‑call rotation and provide 24/7 support for critical database incidents.
Required Skills & Experience
- Minimum 3 years of hands‑on experience administering Microsoft SQL Server (2016 or later).
- Strong proficiency in T‑SQL, database design, and performance tuning.
- Experience with high‑availability solutions such as Always On Availability Groups, Failover Clusters, and Log Shipping.
- Knowledge of backup strategies, point‑in‑time recovery, and disaster‑recovery planning.
- Familiarity with security best practices, including RBAC, encryption at rest and in transit, and compliance frameworks.
- Proficiency in PowerShell scripting for automation and monitoring.
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
- Relevant certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate or MCSE: SQL Server are preferred.
Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft SQL Server (2016/2017/2019/2022) and SQL Server Management Studio.
- PowerShell for automation and scripting.
- Windows Server operating systems.
- Backup and monitoring tools (e.g., SQL Server Agent, SQL Profiler, and third‑party monitoring solutions).
- High‑availability technologies: Always On Availability Groups, Failover Cluster Instances, Log Shipping, and database replication.
Work Schedule & Duration
- Contract length: 8 months (November 2, 2026 – June 30, 2027).
- Work arrangement: Remote initially, transitioning to hybrid with on‑site presence at 1221 McKinley Avenue, Columbus, Ohio.
- On‑call support may be required for critical incidents.
Interview Process
The selection process typically includes an initial phone or Teams screening, followed by a technical interview focused on SQL Server administration scenarios and a final interview with the hiring manager. Candidates may be asked to complete a short DBA task or provide examples of past performance‑tuning projects.
Position Details
- Employment Type: Contract
- Duration: Approximately 12 months (with potential for extension)
- Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States