Remote SQL Server DBA - Contract - Direct Candidates Only

Direct Candidates Only – No Third Parties Please. Resource 1 is seeking an experienced SQL Server DBA for a contract starting on June 1st. The initial contract will go through September. The client recently migrated most of their SQL Server databases to SQL on Azure VM. This role is remote and requires a collaborative professional who can work with existing DBAs to manage day-to-day operations, support mission critical databases (including off-hours support), and provide guidance on database best practices. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in MS SQL Server, strong problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to performance, availability, and security in a 24x7 environment.Database Monitoring & Availability:Monitor SQL Server databases in an Always On environment using tools like Idera and Red Hat OpenShift.Diagnose and resolve issues with Availability Group (AG) health and related replication or failover challenges.Identify/ resolve long-running processes that are consuming excessive CPU or resources.Database Replication:Manage transactional replication between Always On systems.Ensure replication processes are healthy, performant, and reliable.Performance Tuning:Analyze and optimize slow-running queries, stored procedures, and database jobs.Optimize backups, restores, and other scheduled maintenance tasks.Patching & Maintenance:Apply MS SQL Server and Windows patches in a 24x7 production environment.Ensure databases remain up-to-date, secure, and compliant with organizational standards.Data Refresh & Environment Management:Execute development and test database refreshes from production backups.Maintain consistency and data integrity across environments.Best Practices:Provide guidance on SQL Server best practices, processes, architecture improvements and potentially a future migration to MI (Managed Instance).Qualifications:Experience with MS SQL Server, including administration, monitoring, and tuning.Hands-on experience with Always On Availability Groups.Proficient in performance tuning, query optimization, and resource management.Experience with transactional replication.Proven ability to manage patching and maintenance in 24x7 production environments.Experience performing database refreshes for development or test environments.Familiarity with backup, restore, and disaster recovery strategies.Willingness to participate in non-business hour support for critical events.Pluses:Experience implementing or advising on SQL Server best practicesMigrating from on-prem SQL Server to Azure VM to MI (Managed Instance)Microsoft certification in Azure Database Administration