Job description

Position: Sr. Database Administrator/ Developer Overview We are seeking a highly experienced and technically proficient Senior SQL DBA / Developer to join our cloud engineering team. This role is pivotal in managing and optimizing SQL Server workloads across virtual machines (IaaS) and cloud-native services (PaaS) such as Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, and AWS RDS for SQL Server. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in SQL Server administration, performance tuning, automation, and cloud infrastructure, along with a strategic mindset for cost optimization and scalability. In this role you will Cloud-Based SQL Server Management (IaaS & PaaS) • Provision and configure SQL Server instances on Azure/AWS VMs (Windows/Linux). • Deploy and manage cloud-native databases using Azure Portal, CLI, ARM templates, or AWS Cloud Formation. • Configure storage, networking, backup settings, and performance tiers (DTUs, vCores). • Apply platform-native security policies, maintenance windows, and scaling options. Monitoring & Performance Tuning • Monitor SQL Server performance using native tools (SQL Profiler, Extended Events, Performance Monitor) and cloud services (Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, AWS Cloud Watch). • Tune queries, indexes, and system configurations (e.g., NUMA, disk alignment) for optimal performance. • Conduct proactive performance analysis and implement recommendations. Backup & Disaster Recovery • Design and automate backup strategies using SQL Server Agent, Ola Hallengren scripts, or third-party tools. • Implement disaster recovery solutions including Always On Availability Groups, Log Shipping, and Replication. • Configure geo-redundant backups, failover groups (Azure), and Multi-AZ deployments (AWS). High Availability & Scalability • Set up and manage traditional HA solutions (Failover Cluster Instances, AGs). • Configure auto-failover groups, active geo-replication, and zone-redundant deployments. • Scale databases up/down or out using platform-native options with minimal downtime. Security & Compliance • Implement RBAC, Azure AD/AWS IAM integration, and data encryption (TDE, Always Encrypted). • Set up auditing, threat detection, and vulnerability assessments. • Ensure compliance with standards such as HIPAA, SOC 2, and GDPR using platform tools. • Preferred knowledge of Thales encryption products. Strategic & Leadership Responsibilities • Evaluate and recommend IaaS vs. PaaS solutions based on workload requirements. • Optimize licensing models and monitor cloud costs using reserved instances and automation. • Automate deployments using Terraform, Bicep, ARM templates, or Cloud Formation. • Implement CI/CD pipelines for database code using Azure Dev Ops or Git Hub Actions. • Use scripting tools (Power Shell, Azure CLI, dbatools, SQLCMD) for repeatable automation. • Act as SME in cloud planning meetings and lead SQL Server migration projects (on-prem to cloud, IaaS to PaaS). • Mentor junior engineers and enforce SQL standards across environments. • Collaborate with Dev Ops, cloud architects, and network teams to ensure seamless integration. What you’ll need to succeed (required skills) • 8+ years of experience in Postgre SQL DBA, Always On, Database Development, Power Shell expertise and RBAC, Azure Active Directory (Mandatory) • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field. • 8+ years of experience in SQL Server engineering and development. • Proven experience managing SQL Server on Azure/AWS (IaaS & PaaS). • Strong knowledge of performance tuning, backup/recovery, and high availability. • Experience with automation and infrastructure-as-code tools. • Proficiency in scripting languages (Power Shell, Shell, Python, etc.). Preferred skills: what will help you stand out • Familiarity with other SQL and No SQL databases. • Experience with Attunity and Delphix tools. • Knowledge of cloud cost optimization strategies. • Certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate or AWS Certified Database – Specialty. Salary and Other Compensation The annual salary for this position is between $79,000 to $92,000 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate. This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program,…

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