Systems Engineer (SQL)

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Systems Engineer (SQL) based in the United States.

As a Systems Engineer (SQL), you will be responsible for designing, implementing, securing, and maintaining complex database environments supporting critical government and defense IT systems. You will oversee SQL Server infrastructure across Microsoft Azure and AWS platforms, ensuring high availability, scalability, performance, and data protection. Working across database architecture, administration, and systems engineering, you will contribute to the reliability and continuous improvement of essential IT services. You will also lead database optimization initiatives, implement disaster recovery solutions, and strengthen security through advanced encryption and authentication technologies. The role requires close collaboration with technical teams and stakeholders to translate complex requirements into effective infrastructure solutions. This position is contingent upon the successful award of a contract currently under bid.

As a Systems Engineer (SQL), you will manage the engineering, administration, and optimization of database infrastructure while ensuring compliance with technical, operational, and security requirements. Your responsibilities will include:

• Provision, install, configure, operate, and maintain systems hardware, software, databases, and related infrastructure.

• Provide technical expertise and hands-on support for database planning, implementation, administration, and ongoing operations.

• Design, develop, and optimize SQL Server databases hosted on Microsoft Azure Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS) environments.

• Implement and manage SQL Server databases on Azure Managed Instances, leveraging built-in availability, scalability, and security capabilities.

• Administer AWS database environments, including provisioning, configuration, optimization, security, and availability management.

• Develop, debug, and optimize complex T-SQL queries, stored procedures, triggers, and functions to support application requirements and improve database performance.

• Perform advanced database performance tuning through query optimization, index management, partitioning, and resource utilization analysis.

• Configure and maintain database backup, restoration, and recovery procedures to ensure business continuity and data protection.

• Design, implement, and maintain SQL Server high-availability solutions, including Failover Cluster Instances and disaster recovery capabilities.

• Conduct systems analysis to evaluate database requirements, identify performance bottlenecks, and recommend improvements to data management processes.

• Implement database security and encryption solutions, including Transparent Data Encryption (TDE), Always Encrypted, and column-level encryption.

• Manage database authentication and security mechanisms, including LDAP and certificate-based authentication.

• Use DBCC commands to perform database consistency checks, index maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.

• Configure and monitor SQL Server diagnostic and monitoring tools, including SQL Server Profiler, Extended Events, and Dynamic Management Views.

• Conduct root cause analysis of database incidents and performance issues using diagnostic tools, execution plans, and system logs.

• Develop and maintain database models, schemas, data dictionaries, entity-relationship diagrams, and process documentation.

• Create and manage PowerShell scripts to support server administration, automation, and data acquisition.

• Configure and maintain SQL Server Database Mail to automate notifications, alerts, and operational reporting.

• Participate in technical research and development to identify opportunities for infrastructure innovation and continuous improvement.

• Ensure systems, operating procedures, and configurations comply with organizational standards and applicable regulatory requirements.

• Prepare and maintain technical specifications, project plans, configuration records, test plans, and implementation results.

• Communicate complex technical concepts, project objectives, scope, and progress to technical teams and relevant stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in database engineering and administration, particularly within Department of Defense (DoD) or federal IT environments. The following qualifications and technical capabilities are required:

• At least 5 years of overall professional experience in engineering.

• At least 5 years of experience in SQL Server database administration and analysis support within DoD or federal IT systems.

• Experience performing responsibilities across the following areas:

• Database architecture.

• Database replication.

• Database encryption.

• LDAP and certificate-based authentication.

• Disaster recovery and Continuity of Operations (COOP).

• Database security.

• High availability and failover management.

• Experience working with current or recent versions of Windows Server operating systems.

• Hands-on experience with SQL Server 2016 or later.

• Strong expertise in Microsoft Azure database services, including Azure IaaS, PaaS, and Managed Instances.

• Experience administering and optimizing databases in AWS environments.

• Advanced T-SQL programming skills, including complex queries, stored procedures, triggers, and functions.

• Demonstrated expertise in database performance tuning, query optimization, indexing, partitioning, and resource management.

• Experience configuring SQL Server backup, recovery, high availability, and disaster recovery solutions.

• Knowledge of Failover Cluster Instances and database failover technologies.

• Proficiency with PowerShell scripting for server management and automation.

• Experience using DBCC commands, SQL Server Profiler, Extended Events, and Dynamic Management Views.

• Strong understanding of database security, encryption technologies, and authentication mechanisms.

• Experience with data modeling methodologies, including conceptual, logical, and physical data modeling, preferably using SQL Server Data Tools.

• Ability to perform root cause analysis and resolve complex database and infrastructure issues.

• Strong technical documentation, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Security and Certification Requirements:

• Must be eligible for IT I clearance, with a Critical Sensitive designation.

• Must hold a DoD-approved 8140/8570 baseline certification at Category IAT Level II.

• Must hold at least one of the following Computing Environment (CE) certifications:

• Oracle OCP Database (version 19 or higher).

• MCSA: SQL Server 2016 DBA.

• OCP SA.

• OCI Foundations 2020.

• Microsoft Azure Database Administrator Associate (Azure DBAA) or higher.

• Must meet the DLA Computing Environment certification requirements for the DBA Administrator role/function.

The position offers an annual salary range of $140,000–$175,000, alongside a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Competitive base salary based on qualifications and professional experience.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching.

• Tax-deferred savings options.

• Supplementary employee benefits.

• Paid time off.

• Professional development and career growth opportunities.

Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.

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