Database Operations Manager, Houston - Hybrid

The Database Operations Manager will lead database operations and performance optimization across a multi‑company enterprise supporting approximately 1,100 employees. This role is responsible for ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and availability of both on‑premises and Azure‑based SQL Server environments. The position oversees database monitoring, backup strategies, performance tuning, and capacity planning while supervising offshore DBA contractors. This is a hands‑on technical leadership role requiring deep expertise in SQL Server administration, Azure data platforms, and enterprise‑scale database operations.

This position supports shared services across a large ERP environment and additional database deployments for two smaller subsidiary companies. The database landscape includes a mix of custom‑built and commercial off‑the‑shelf applications with extensive integrations. Infrastructure spans both on‑premises and Azure‑based environments including Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, SQL Server on Azure VMs, Azure Synapse, and migration paths to Microsoft Fabric and Foundry.

• Monitor, analyze, and optimize database performance across all SQL Server environments (on‑premises and Azure‑based)
• Conduct advanced performance tuning, query optimization, and indexing strategies
• Troubleshoot and resolve database integrity issues, blocking/deadlocking, connectivity, and security issues
• Perform capacity planning and resource optimization for very large databases (VLDBs) supporting OLTP applications

• Design, implement, and manage enterprise backup and recovery strategies using Idera SQL backup tools
• Implement and maintain SQL Server high availability solutions (clustering, mirroring, Always On, replication)
• Execute and test disaster recovery procedures

• Implement and maintain database monitoring solutions using Idera monitoring tools and SQL Server native tools (Performance Monitor, SQL Profiler, DMVs)
• Leverage monitoring and alerting to shift from reactive to proactive operations
• Execute DBCC commands and maintenance routines

• Drive automation across database operations to reduce manual intervention and eliminate fragile processes
• Implement self‑service capabilities where appropriate while maintaining proper guardrails
• Develop scripts and automation frameworks to improve operational efficiency

• Manage Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, and SQL Server on Azure VMs
• Support data warehouse operations in Azure Synapse and migrations to Microsoft Fabric and Foundry platforms
• Optimize cloud database costs and performance

• Understand and support data pipelines including ingestion, transformation, orchestration, and downstream consumption
• Manage both batch and real‑time data flows across the enterprise
• Partner closely with DBAs, data engineers, and analytics teams to ensure seamless data operations

• Define and enforce data SLAs and SLOs for database operations
• Implement data quality management practices, monitoring data freshness, completeness, and accuracy
• Support metadata management, lineage tracking, and data observability initiatives
• Collaborate on data governance, retention policies, and compliance requirements

• Develop and troubleshoot stored procedures, functions, views, triggers, indexes, and constraints
• Review and approve database designs for new projects
• Partner with application engineers and the BI‑focused Data Architect to align solutions with strategic direction
• Publish and enforce database standards

• Supervise and mentor 2 offshore DBA contractors
• Develop clear performance goals and provide regular coaching and feedback
• Coordinate work assignments and ensure quality delivery across time zones

• Provide regular updates on operational status, risks, and mitigation strategies
• Communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and…