Microsoft SQL Server Database Administrator III

Sr. Microsoft SQL Server Database Administrator Payrate: up to $91/hr. W-2, depending on experience. C2C is available. Benefits: Health, Dental & Vision Insurance is available. Health savings account, Flexible spending accounts, Life insurance and Retirement plan are also available.This position is a contract position with the possibility to go direct. Therefore, candidates must be eligible to permanently work in the US.Interview Process: 1st round will be 30-minute MS Teams video; 2nd round will be 2-hour onsite/in-person with existing team.Staff augmentation due to increased workload, will follow corporate schedule hours.We are seeking a highly skilled Sr. Microsoft SQL Server Database Administrator (with Open-Source DB experience) and proven experience in enterprise-scale environments across both on-prem and cloud platforms. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in MS SQL Server along with hands-on experience supporting widely used open-source databases such as PostgreSQL or MongoDB, plus exposure to any other additional database technologies.This role will assist with installation, configuration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and operational support of SQL Server environments across both production and non-production systems in a fast-paced enterprise environment. Experience working with virtualized infrastructure, cloud technologies (Azure, AWS), and DevOps automation is critical.Daily Tasks/Priorities:Manage on-prem and cloud SQL Server databases across development, test, production, and DR environments.Install, configure, patch, upgrade, and maintain SQL Server instances following established standards and documentation.Administer and support PostgreSQL environments; exposure to additional RDBMS/Mongo/Snowflake platforms is a plus.Perform and validate database backups, restores, disaster recovery tests, and capacity/performance monitoringKey Responsibilities: Database Administration & OperationsManage SQL Server databases across development, test, production, and DR environments.Install, configure, patch, upgrade, and maintain SQL Server instances following established standards and documentation.Administer and support PostgreSQL environments; exposure to additional RDBMS platforms is a plus.Perform and validate database backups, restores, disaster recovery tests, and capacity/performance monitoring.Performance, Troubleshooting & High AvailabilityTroubleshoot SQL Server issues including performance, blocking, connectivity, integrity, and HA configuration issues.Support Always-On Availability Groups, failover clustering, Distributed Availability Groups, and related HA/DR technologies.Work with Infrastructure and Application teams to ensure database reliability, security, performance, and recoverability.Automation & ScriptingDevelop and maintain automation using T-SQL, PowerShell, Python, Ansible, or similar technologies.Create and maintain administrative scripts for maintenance, monitoring, and operational workflows.Cloud & DevOps SupportSupport database deployments across Azure and AWS environments.Participate in DevOps pipelines, CI/CD processes, and database automation initiatives.Operational Support & CollaborationWork within a ticketing system to manage incidents, service requests, and change requests.Provide real-time support for deployments, production issues, and urgent operational tasks.Contribute to database standards, architecture discussions, and continuous improvement opportunities.Required Qualifications (Must haves):5+ years of hands-on experience as a SQL Server DBA II or IIIStrong expertise with SQL Server 2016–2022 (any SQL Server 2025 experience - is a plus)Strong PowerShellHands-on experience managing Open-Source DB's PostgreSQL or MongoDB within production environmentsAzure and AWS database services and cloud administration experienceAutomation experienceProficiency with HA technologies including Always-On AGs and Distributed Availability Groups.Experience with SQL Server in virtualized ecosystems (VMware); Zerto familiarity - is a plusStrong scripting skills: T-SQL, PowerShell; exposure to Python/Ansible preferred.Preferred QualificationsExperience working in SOX-compliant or regulated environments.DevOps or automation-focused background.Experience supporting enterprise applications with high-transaction workloads.Knowledge of monitoring tools (SolarWinds, Idera, Dynatrace, Grafana, etc.).Experience with other open-source database platforms beyond PostgreSQL or MongoDBExperience with specialized cloud databases such as Snowflake is preferred.Soft SkillsStrong verbal and written communication skills.Ability to explain complex technical issues to technical and non-technical audiences.Collaborative, customer-focused mindset with strong problem-solving abilities.Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, ownership, and ability to meet deadlines.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.