SQL Server Security Engineer

Description We are seeking an experienced SQL Server 2022 Security & Encryption Engineer to design and implement a comprehensive security and encryption framework for SQL Server 2022 databases containing Protected Health Information (PHI). This short-term contract role is critical for achieving strong technical safeguards and delivering auditable evidence for HIPAA compliance. The successful candidate will deploy and harden SQL Server 2022 using industry-leading encryption, access control, auditing, and masking technologies, ensuring sensitive data is protected at rest, in transit, and in use. Key Responsibilities Deploy and configure SQL Server 2022 with a full security and encryption stack, including: Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) Always Encrypted with Azure Key Vault integration Column-Level Encryption on all PHI-containing columns Row-Level Security (RLS) Dynamic Data Masking (DDM) Implement SQL Server Audit and route audit logs to Microsoft Sentinel for centralized monitoring and alerting Enforce TLS 1.2 / 1.3 for all database connections and disable legacy protocols Perform surface area reduction and hardening (disable unnecessary features, xp_cmdshell, etc.) Design and implement secure key management practices using Azure Key Vault Develop and document encryption strategies, policies, and procedures for PHI protection Create a complete HIPAA Technical Safeguard evidence package including configuration documentation, encryption inventories, key management processes, and audit procedures Collaborate with the Microsoft Security Framework Engineer and Microsoft Sentinel Engineer to ensure seamless integration with the broader security stack (Defender, Sentinel, Purview DLP, etc.) Provide knowledge transfer and training to internal database and security teams Requirements 7+ years of hands-on experience as a SQL Server DBA or Database Security Engineer Deep expertise in SQL Server 2022 security features, specifically: Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) Always Encrypted (with Azure Key Vault) Column-Level Encryption Row-Level Security and Dynamic Data Masking SQL Server Audit and log shipping to SIEM (Sentinel) Proven experience implementing encryption solutions for databases containing PHI in regulated healthcare environments Strong knowledge of HIPAA Security Rule technical safeguards and ability to produce auditable compliance evidence Experience with Azure Key Vault for cryptographic key management Solid understanding of TLS configuration, certificate management, and SQL Server surface area hardening Excellent documentation and communication skills Preferred Qualifications Prior experience working on Microsoft 365 E5 + Sentinel environments Familiarity with Microsoft Purview sensitivity labeling and DLP integration with SQL databases Certifications such as MCSE: Data Management and Analytics, or equivalent modern SQL security-focused credentials Experience delivering HIPAA-compliant database implementations Technology Doesn't Change the World, People Do. Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .