Job description

We are seeking a skilled and experienced SQL Server Database Administrator (DBA) to lead and execute the on-premises upgrade initiatives for our client's SQL Server databases. You will be responsible for planning, implementing, and managing the upgrade process while ensuring the stability, security, and performance of our database environment.

**Responsibilities:**

1. **Upgrade Planning:**
- Collaborate with stakeholders to define upgrade goals, scope, and objectives.
- Assess the current database environment and applications to determine compatibility and potential issues with the new SQL Server version.
- Develop a detailed upgrade plan outlining tasks, timelines, resource requirements, and risk mitigation strategies.

2. **Database Pre-Upgrade Activities:**
- Backup and secure existing databases and related objects to ensure data integrity.
- Review and optimize database schema, indexes, and queries to enhance performance.
- Identify and address security vulnerabilities and compliance concerns.

3. **Upgrade Execution:**
- Lead the execution of the upgrade process, ensuring minimal downtime and impact to business operations.
- Monitor the upgrade process and address any issues or errors that arise during the upgrade.
- Perform necessary compatibility tests and resolve any application-related issues.

4. **Post-Upgrade Validation:**
- Conduct thorough testing of upgraded databases to verify functionality, data integrity, and performance.
- Collaborate with development teams to validate application compatibility and resolve any post-upgrade issues.
- Document the upgrade process, changes made, and lessons learned for future reference.

5. **Performance Tuning and Optimization:**
- Monitor database performance post-upgrade and identify opportunities for optimization.
- Fine-tune query performance, indexes, and configurations to ensure optimal performance.

6. **Security and Compliance:**
- Implement security best practices for the upgraded databases, including user access, roles, and permissions.
- Ensure compliance with relevant data protection regulations and internal security policies.

7. **Documentation and Reporting:**
- Maintain comprehensive documentation related to database upgrades, configurations, and changes.
- Provide regular status reports to management, highlighting progress, challenges, and recommended solutions.

**Qualifications:**

- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
- Proven experience as a SQL Server Database Administrator, with a focus on database upgrades and migrations.
- Strong knowledge of SQL Server versions and editions, with expertise in planning and executing upgrades.
- Proficiency in database performance tuning, query optimization, and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with security best practices and compliance requirements for database systems.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure to resolve critical issues.
- Strong communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
- Relevant certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate) are a plus.
- Experience with scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell) for automation is desirable.
- Prior experience in on-premises to cloud migration is a Must.

Required profile