SQL Database Administrator

SQL Server Database Administrator

Ahava Services is seeking a SQL Server Database Administrator to manage and maintain enterprise databases across production, UAT, and development environments. The ideal candidate will be responsible for database architecture, performance tuning, security, backup and recovery, high availability, and disaster recovery. This role will work closely with application development teams to ensure reliable, scalable, and secure database solutions that support critical business operations.

Location - Deerfield, IL (2 days a week)

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and support high-availability SQL Server databases in production, UAT, and development environments.
• Perform database installation, configuration, maintenance, upgrades, and patch management.
• Ensure successful database backup, recovery, replication, and disaster recovery processes.
• Monitor database growth, performance, capacity, and system efficiency; proactively identify and resolve issues.
• Design, create, and maintain database structures including tables, indexes, views, stored procedures, and schemas.
• Implement and maintain database security, encryption, access controls, and compliance standards.
• Provide technical consultation and support to application development teams.
• Assist with database troubleshooting, performance optimization, and root cause analysis.
• Participate in application design reviews and recommend database best practices.
• Develop and maintain database standards, procedures, documentation, and operational guidelines.
• Mentor junior team members and share technical knowledge across teams.
• Support database monitoring, automation, and scripting initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• 5–10 years of experience as a SQL Server Database Administrator.
• 3\+ years supporting SQL Server in a 24x7 high-availability environment, including failover and failback testing.
• 5\+ years creating and modifying SQL Server database objects including tables, columns, indexes, and constraints.
• 3\+ years of database performance tuning and proactive maintenance.
• 3\+ years using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
• 3\+ years utilizing database monitoring and performance management tools.
• 3\+ years implementing database security, encryption protocols, and access controls.
• 3\+ years performing logical and physical database design.
• 3\+ years developing and supporting SQL Server T-SQL solutions.
• Experience mentoring and coaching technical team members.
• Experience with metadata management and data modeling methodologies.
• Experience implementing and managing Transparent Data Encryption (TDE).

Preferred Qualification

• Experience designing and supporting enterprise Data Warehouse solutions.
• Experience with SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS).
• Experience with SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS).
• Experience with SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS).
• Proficiency in scripting and automation using PowerShell and/or Python.