PARTNER CONSULTANT - SQL

Job Title: SQL Server Database Administrator (DBA)

Experience: 5 to 7 Years

Location: Flexible (Preferably Bangalore)

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced SQL Server Database Administrator (DBA) with 5 to 7 years of hands-on experience in SQL Server administration, infrastructure management, database maintenance, patching, upgrades, high availability, and operational support. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing the complete SQL Server lifecycle, ensuring high availability, security compliance, operational stability, and adherence to ITIL-based change management processes.

Key Responsibilities:

SQL Server Administration & Environment Management

• Manage SQL Server installations, configurations, upgrades, and decommissioning activities.
• Perform migration and retirement activities.
• Maintain database inventory, configuration records, and environment documentation.
• Ensure database platforms meet performance, availability, and security standards.

Installation, Configuration & Deployment

• Install and configure SQL Server instances following organizational standards and best practices.
• Validate infrastructure prerequisites, storage requirements, and deployment readiness.
• Prepare implementation plans, rollback procedures, and deployment documentation.
• Conduct post-installation validation and operational readiness checks.

Patching, Upgrades & Security

• Plan and execute SQL Server Cumulative Updates (CU), Service Packs, and Security Patches.
• Perform patching activities for standalone servers, clustered environments, and Always On Availability Groups.
• Validate application compatibility and deployment prerequisites.
• Conduct post-patch health checks and ensure system stability.
• Support vulnerability remediation and security compliance initiatives.

Change & Release Management

• Create and maintain Change Requests (CRs) as per ITIL standards.
• Develop implementation plans, risk assessments, business impact analyses, and rollback strategies.
• Execute approved changes during maintenance windows.
• Support change closure activities and maintain audit-compliant documentation.

Decommissioning & Lifecycle Management

• Execute SQL Server uninstallation and decommissioning activities.
• Archive databases, backups, and related records according to retention policies.
• Remove obsolete SQL Server components and infrastructure dependencies.
• Update operational documentation after successful decommissioning.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Collaborate with application teams, infrastructure teams, business users, and change management teams.
• Communicate maintenance schedules, outages, implementation progress, and completion status.
• Provide timely escalations and stakeholder updates during critical activities.

Required Technical Skills:

• Microsoft SQL Server Administration (2008, 2008 R2, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2022)
• SQL Server Installation, Configuration, and Upgrades
• SQL Server Patching and Security Remediation
• Always On Availability Groups
• Windows Failover Clustering
• SQL Server Replication
• Log Shipping
• Backup and Recovery Management
• Performance Monitoring and Troubleshooting
• Change and Release Management (ITIL)
• Incident and Problem Management
• Documentation, Audit, and Compliance Management

Preferred Skills:

• PowerShell scripting and automation.
• Experience with enterprise monitoring tools.
• Knowledge of database security best practices and compliance standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• 5 to 7 years of hands-on experience as a SQL Server DBA.
• Microsoft SQL Server certifications are preferred.

Key Competencies:

• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to work independently in production environments.
• Strong documentation and process adherence mindset.
• Commitment to operational excellence, security, and service availability.