Azure SQL DBA

Overview: We are seeking an experienced Azure SQL Database Administrator (DBA) to join our IT team on a contract basis. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and optimizing Azure SQL database environments. This role requires expertise in cloud-based database administration, high availability solutions, performance tuning, and security best practices. You will collaborate with development, infrastructure, and security teams to ensure efficient database operations that align with business objectives.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain Azure SQL databases to support business applications.
• Monitor and optimize database performance, security, and availability.
• Configure and manage high availability and disaster recovery (HA/DR) solutions such as Always On Availability Groups.
• Perform database tuning, indexing, and query optimization.
• Implement and maintain database security, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Manage database backups, restores, and recovery strategies.
• Develop and maintain automation scripts for database maintenance and deployment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve database-related issues in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with developers and other IT teams to improve database efficiency and application performance.
• Document database configurations, procedures, and best practices.

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience as an Azure SQL Database Administrator.
• Strong knowledge of Azure SQL Database, SQL Server (2016/2019/2022), and Azure SQL Managed Instances.
• Experience with T-SQL for database administration and optimization.
• Hands-on experience with Azure services such as Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and Security Center.
• Expertise in database backup, recovery, and disaster recovery planning.
• Experience implementing security best practices, including RBAC, encryption, and auditing.
• Strong understanding of performance tuning techniques, including indexing strategies and query optimization.
• Familiarity with PowerShell scripting and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools such as Terraform or ARM templates.
• Experience supporting CI/CD pipelines for databases (e.g., Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions).
• Knowledge of data replication, mirroring, and Always On Availability Groups.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve database-related performance and connectivity issues.
• Microsoft certification in Azure Database Administration (DP-300) or equivalent.
• Experience with NoSQL databases such as Cosmos DB.
• Knowledge of machine learning, AI, and analytics workloads in Azure.
• Experience working in ITIL or Agile environments.

Person Specification

• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to troubleshooting.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• High attention to detail and commitment to database security and reliability.
• A passion for learning new technologies and staying up to date with industry trends.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills to manage multiple database environments efficiently.