Lead SQL Server DBA

We are seeking a senior-level SQL Server DBA to support a critical upgrade project from SQL Server2017 to 2022. This role is focused on managing and upgrading SQL Server environments hosted on on-premises virtual machines (VMs). The ideal candidate will have deep experience with high availability configurations clustering and disaster recovery in a virtualized infrastructure.

Note : The candidate MUST have experience in leading/performing a SQL Server 2016/2017 to 2022 migration in a HA Always up Clustered environment with DR using replication.

• Lead the upgrade of SQL Server 2017 to 2022 in a complex on-prem VM-based environment
• Maintain and troubleshoot Always On Availability Groups and Windows Server Failover Clustering (WSFC)
• Collaborate with infrastructure teams to manage VM configurations storage and networking
• Support both production and disaster recovery (DR) environments
• Perform performance tuning capacity planning and backup/restore operations
• Create and maintain detailed documentation and procedures
• Provide on-call support as needed
• Provide direction as needed for other DBA contractors on work required to be performed
• Provide knowledge transfer to internal teams

Required Qualifications

• 7 years of SQL Server DBA experience in enterprise environments
• Proven experience upgrading SQL Server 2017 to 2022 on virtualized infrastructure
• Expertise in clustering high availability and DR strategies using VMs
• Strong understanding of Hyper-V or VMware environments
• Proficiency in T-SQL and PowerShell scripting
• Experience managing SQL Server on Windows Server in an on-premises data center
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Experience with SQL Server components such as SSRS SSIS and Analysis Services

Preferred Qualifications

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate or equivalent
• Familiarity with VM backup and snapshot strategies
• Experience with monitoring tools like Redgate SolarWinds or Sentry One
• Knowledge of hybrid DR strategies involving off-site or co-located data centers
• Knowledge of current Microsoft SQL Server licensing
• Experience in using and configuring 3rd party tools such as Redgate monitoring tools
• Understanding of Active Directory configuration requirements including:
  • Cluster Name Object (CNO) requirements for pre staged SQL Computer Objects
  • Delegation of rights to service accounts for dynamic object creation within specific OUs
• Understanding of DNS configuration requirements to support dynamic updates for SQL Server listeners and CNOs in high availability scenarios

Note: While the contractor will not directly manage AD or DNS they will work closely with the Server Support team to facilitate necessary changes and ensure proper configuration.