Database Engineer

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage highly available and scalable Azure database solutions, including Azure SQL Database, Azure Managed Instance, and Cosmos DB.
• Administer, maintain, and optimize both on-premises and cloud-based database environments to ensure peak performance, security, and reliability.
• Monitor database performance and proactively optimize queries, indexing, and storage configurations in Azure.
• Develop and implement robust backup, disaster recovery, and high-availability strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Enforce database security, auditing, and compliance practices in alignment with federal standards and organizational policies.
• Leverage Azure-native monitoring tools (e.g., Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, Application Insights) for proactive monitoring and performance tuning.
• Collaborate with development and DevOps teams to integrate database services into CI/CD pipelines and automate deployment strategies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex database issues and performance bottlenecks.
• Develop and enforce standards, procedures, and best practices for database design, use, and maintenance.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers when required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in database engineering, administration, or cloud data solutions.
• Expert-level experience with Azure database services including Azure SQL Database, Azure Managed Instance, and Cosmos DB.
• Proficiency in T-SQL, PowerShell, and Azure CLI for scripting, automation, and database administration.
• Strong understanding of PaaS and IaaS database offerings within Azure.
• Proven expertise in performance tuning, query optimization, and indexing strategies.
• Demonstrated experience implementing database security, auditing, encryption, and compliance controls in cloud environments.
• Hands-on experience with backup, restore, disaster recovery, and high-availability solutions.
• Experience collaborating with DevOps teams on automation and CI/CD workflows.
• Active Secret or Top Secret clearance required (U.S. Citizenship required)

Preferred Experience

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate or similar certification.
• Prior experience supporting NTIA, Department of Commerce, or other federal civilian agencies.
• Familiarity with NoSQL database technologies in Azure (e.g., Cosmos DB, Table Storage).
• Experience implementing database security controls and compliance measures aligned with federal standards.
• Understanding of hybrid or multi-cloud database strategies.