Mid level Database Administrator

Software Engineering Herndon, Virginia United States


Description

We are seeking a motivated Mid-Level Database Administrator (DBA) to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of database management systems (DBMS), experience with database performance optimization, and a keen interest in ensuring the stability, performance, and security of our database environments. The Mid-Level DBA will work closely with senior DBAs, developers, security, project and IT staff to ensure that all databases are running efficiently and securely.
 
In this role, you will assist with maintaining, monitoring, and troubleshooting databases, while also contributing to the design and improvement of our database systems. The position offers growth opportunities for the right individual to advance their skills and knowledge in a collaborative and supportive environment.
 
Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
 

Responsibilities

Database Administration:
  • Install, configure, and manage database systems such as SQL Server, PostgreSQL, or Oracle.
  • Monitor database performance and tune queries to improve speed and efficiency.
  • Manage database backups, restores, and disaster recovery operations.
  • Assist in maintaining high availability, fault tolerance, and data integrity across production and non-production environments.
Database Security:
  • Ensure proper database security by configuring access controls, enforcing password policies, and encrypting sensitive data.
  • Assist in performing regular database audits to identify security risks and recommend solutions.
Troubleshooting & Performance Tuning:
  • Identify and resolve database performance issues, including slow queries, locking, and resource constraints.
  • Perform regular database health checks, provide analysis and suggest improvements.
  • Assist with database incident management and provide support during critical system downtimes or failures.
Database Maintenance & Upgrades:
  • Manage and apply routine database patches and updates in accordance with security best practices.
  • Work with the team to plan and execute database version upgrades, migrations, and optimizations.

Collaboration & Documentation:

  • Collaborate with development teams to provide database-related advice for application design and improvements.
  • Develop and maintain documentation related to database configurations, processes, and troubleshooting guides.
  • Provide support for database deployments and migrations in coordination with other IT departments.
Automation & Monitoring:
  • Set up and maintain automated database monitoring tools and alerts.
  • Contribute to the automation of routine database maintenance tasks (e.g., backups, data migrations).
Cloud & On-Premises Database Management:
  • Manage databases in both cloud environments and on-premises environments.
  • Support cloud migrations and integrations for database workloads.
 

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience as a Database Administrator or in a similar database management role.
  • Strong knowledge of relational database management systems (RDBMS) such as SQL Server, PostgreSQL, or Oracle.
  • Experience with cloud-based database platforms such as AWS RDS is a plus.
  • Familiarity with backup and recovery strategies, disaster recovery, and data replication.
  • Experience with database performance tuning (indexing, query optimization) and troubleshooting.
  • After-hours and/or weekend work for database support, patching, upgrades, or emergencies will be required.
 
Additional Skills
  • Solid understanding of database security best practices, including user roles, encryption, and data masking.
  • Proficiency with SQL and database scripting.
  • Knowledge of database monitoring tools (e.g., SolarWinds, New Relic).
  • Experience with automation tools (e.g., PowerShell, Python, Shell scripting) is a plus.
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA), Oracle Certified Professional (OCP), AWS Certified Database – Specialty, or other relevant certifications, but not required.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Detail-oriented with a focus on maintaining system stability and security.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Familiarity with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines.
  • Understanding of database design principles and data modeling.
  • Experience with automation frameworks and infrastructure as code tools.