Job description

Dice is the leading career destination for tech experts at every stage of their careers. Our client, iSphere, is seeking the following. Apply via Dice today! Senior SQL Database Administrator (DBA) - Onsite in Houston, TX - Contract-to-Hire Location: Houston, TX (100% Onsite) Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire | Long-Term/Ongoing Experience Level: Senior (8+ Years) Company: iSphere - IT Staffing and Solutions Opportunity Overview: iSphere is seeking a Senior SQL Database Administrator (DBA) to join an in-office technical team supporting complex data environments in Houston, TX. This long-term, contract-to-hire position is ideal for an experienced professional with deep SQL expertise, a passion for optimization, and a solid understanding of data integrity, ETL workflows, and replication. You'll play a critical role in maintaining, tuning, and advancing the organization's SQL Server infrastructure. Key Responsibilities: • Administer, configure, and maintain Microsoft SQL Server databases • Design, develop, and optimize T-SQL scripts, stored procedures, and functions • Monitor and improve database performance through indexing, query tuning, and proactive diagnostics • Manage ETL workflows using SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) • Implement and support Change Data Capture (CDC) and data replication strategies (SQL and Qlik) • Develop robust backup, recovery, and disaster recovery procedures • Collaborate with developers, analysts, and operations teams to support mission-critical applications • Ensure high levels of data availability, integrity, and security • Maintain clear documentation for database systems, configurations, and policies • Provide occasional after-hours support for deployments and critical incidents Required Skills & Qualifications: • 8+ years of hands-on experience as a SQL Database Administrator • Advanced proficiency in T-SQL, query tuning, indexing, and database architecture • Deep experience with MS SQL Server administration and development • Expertise in ETL processing, especially with SSIS • Familiarity with SQL CDC and data replication, including integration with Qlik • Strong grasp of data warehousing principles and database security best practices • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills Preferred / Bonus Skills: • Experience with NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Elasticsearch, RavenDB) • Working knowledge of PostgreSQL • Exposure to cloud-based database platforms (e.g., Azure SQL, AWS RDS) • Familiarity with SQL Sentry for performance monitoring • Understanding of IIS and RabbitMQ environments Why Join iSphere? • Be part of a growing, stable project with long-term potential • Work in a collaborative environment with skilled developers and IT professionals • Play a key role in shaping database strategy, performance, and security • Onsite role with full engagement in critical systems and business functions

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