Database Engineer

This role is responsible for the installation, configuration, maintenance, and performance tuning of Microsoft SQL Server databases. They ensure the security, availability, and reliability of database systems that support business applications and data needs. This role also prioritizes the ongoing maintenance of enterprise-level open-source database systems. Lastly, it ensures the stability, reliability, scalability, and security of mission-critical data platforms that support business operations and analytics.
The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience managing large, high-availability MySQL and PostgreSQL environments—both on-premises and in the cloud. They will play a key role in database architecture planning, automation of operational workflows, and mentoring junior DBAs. The Senior DBA works closely with development, DevOps, and infrastructure teams to optimize database performance, streamline deployments, and ensure seamless data operations across multiple environments.

This role is fully onsite at the DOT headquarters in Washington DC.

Job Description and Duties:

• Position is required to be full-time onsite at DOT HQ, Washington DC
• Assist in driving, standardizing, and managing unified configuration management database.
• Install and configure Microsoft SQL Server instances and tools (SSMS, SSRS, SSIS, SSAS).
• Set up new databases, servers, and related infrastructure.
• Manage SQL Server clustering, replication, and high availability solutions.
• Monitor and maintain database performance, integrity, and security.
• Perform regular database maintenance tasks (index optimization, statistics updates, consistency checks).
• Plan and perform database upgrades, patches, and migrations.
• Troubleshoot database errors, bottlenecks, and performance issues.
• Analyze query execution plans and optimize SQL queries.
• Monitor system performance using tools like SQL Profiler, Extended Events, and Performance Monitor.
• Identify and resolve slow-running queries or deadlocks.
• Manage user accounts, roles, and permissions to maintain data security.
• Audit database activities and log changes.
• Maintain detailed documentation of database environments, configurations, and changes.
• Generate reports for performance metrics, growth trends, and usage statistics.