SQL Database Administrator Job Los Angeles area,California USA,IT/Tech

Job Summary:

As an SQL database engineer, you will be responsible for managing and maintaining SQL Server databases, with a focus on SQL clustering, Always On, replication, and SSIS package development; troubleshooting; performance tuning; and supporting database-related projects. This role involves responding to escalated issues from L1/L2 engineers, optimizing database systems, and ensuring operational stability. You will collaborate closely with developers, system administrators, and other IT staff to resolve database issues and improve overall database efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Database Administration:

Administer, maintain, and monitor SQL Server databases.
Perform database installations, upgrades, and patching.
Monitor and optimize the performance of the database system by analyzing performance metrics and logs.
Ensure database availability, scalability, and security through backup strategies and recovery processes.

2. Troubleshooting:

Act as an escalation point for L1 and L2 database issues, providing advanced troubleshooting and resolving complex database incidents.
Investigate and resolve performance bottlenecks, deadlocks, and locking issues.
Collaborate with developers to optimize query performance and enhance database operations.

3. Performance Tuning:

Analyze and optimize slow queries, indexes, and database configurations.
Perform query optimization and index tuning to improve database performance.
Use performance monitoring tools (SQL Profiler, Performance Monitor, etc.) to track and resolve performance issues.

4. Backup & Recovery:

Manage automated backup and recovery processes.
Ensure the reliability of backup and recovery operations through regular testing.
Implement disaster recovery strategies to minimize downtime in the event of a system failure.

5. Security & Compliance:

Implement and enforce database security measures, including access control and encryption.
Monitor user roles and permissions to ensure proper data access.
Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal security policies.
Collaborate with developers and application teams to support database design and query optimization.
Work with L1/L2 support teams to resolve escalated issues.
Communicate with stakeholders to provide status updates on database health, incidents, and performance improvements.

7. Documentation:

Maintain detailed documentation of database configurations, processes, and troubleshooting steps.
Create and update knowledge base articles to assist L1 and L2 teams.

Key Skills and

Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Experience:

10+ years in SQL database administration, with at least 1-2 years in an L3 support or senior role.

Certifications (preferred):

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) in SQL Server

Technical

Skills:

Strong experience with Microsoft SQL Server (2012, 2016, 2019, or newer).
Proficient in T-SQL, query optimization, and performance tuning.
Experience with database clustering, replication, and Always On availability groups.
Hands-on experience with database backup, recovery, and disaster recovery processes.
Knowledge of SQL Server tools (SSMS, SQL Profiler, Performance Monitor).
Familiarity with cloud-based databases (Azure SQL, AWS RDS) is an advantage.
Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Power Shell) for automation.

Soft Skills:

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Excellent communication skills to interact with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
Team player with a proactive attitude.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working in enterprise environments.
Familiarity with No

SQL databases is a plus.
Knowledge of data warehousing and ETL processes.