Senior SQL Server Database Administrator (With Cloud Experience)

Senior SQL Server Database Administrator (With Cloud Experience) Position Summary RalanTech is seeking a Senior SQL Server Database Administrator to support our enterprise clients across hybrid and multi-cloud environments (Azure, AWS, and GCP). This fully remote, U.S.-based contract role offers the opportunity to work with the latest Microsoft SQL Server technologies while driving modern cloud-first solutions. You’ll lead efforts in performance tuning, cloud migrations, automation, and high availability for mission-critical databases. Technical Expertise & Advisory Administer SQL Server environments across on-prem, Azure (SQL MI, SQL DB), AWS (RDS, EC2), and hybrid cloud infrastructures. Expertise with SQL Server versions 2016 through 2022, including Always On, Replication, and Log Shipping. Provide architectural guidance on HA/DR, sharding, partitioning, and storage strategies. Perform complex troubleshooting, tuning queries and indexes, and resolve system-level performance issues. Evaluate new features and make recommendations for best-fit adoption based on client needs. Day to day Operations Management Manage the full SQL Server database lifecycle installs, upgrades, patching, and service pack rollouts. Maintain high availability and disaster recovery setups (Always on AGs, Failover Clusters). Monitor and tune performance using tools like SQL Profiler, Extended Events, and DMVs. Enforce database security, access controls, auditing, and encryption protocols. Develop and maintain proactive monitoring dashboards using tools like Azure Monitor, CloudWatch, SCOM, and custom PowerShell scripts. Database Migration Management Lead SQL Server migrations from on-prem to cloud and between cloud platforms. Use tools such as Data Migration Assistant (DMA), SSIS, DMS, and native backup/restore methods. Validate performance, data integrity, and compliance post-migration. Automation & Scripting Automate operational processes like patching, provisioning, backups, and health checks using PowerShell, T-SQL, and Azure/AWS CLI tools. Serve as the escalation point for critical database issues and lead incident management. Ensure SLAs for uptime, RTO/RPO, and response time are met. Provide mentorship to junior SQL DBAs and share best practices across teams. Client Relationship Management Act as a trusted technical advisor for clients on database strategy and modernization efforts. Conduct regular client check-ins and architecture reviews. Champion client needs to ensure long-term success internally. Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field (or equivalent experience). 10+ years of experience as an SQL Server DBA in enterprise environments. Demonstrated expertise with cloud-hosted SQL Server in Azure, AWS, or GCP. Technical Skills Deep knowledge of SQL Server internals, T-SQL, query optimization, and database architecture. Proficient in Always On AGs, clustering, replication, and other HA/DR technologies. Experience with SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS), Reporting Services (SSRS), and Management Studio (SSMS). Strong background in automation using PowerShell and T-SQL. Familiarity with DevOps pipelines and Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) for database deployments is a plus. Certifications (Preferred) AWS Certified Database – Specialty MCSA/MCSE in SQL Server or related database technologies Competitive hourly rate: $65–$75 per hour , based on experience and location 100% remote with flexible hours Collaborate on cloud-forward, enterprise-scale projects with a global technical team About RalanTech RalanTech is a premier IT services and consulting company specializing in multi-platform database solutions, cloud strategy, and IT transformation. We provide expert support across Oracle, SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MySQL, and other platforms—empowering businesses through reliable, scalable, and secure infrastructure design. RalanTech is specialized in database managed services. We are passionate about leveraging cutting-edge solutions to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth for our clients. #J-18808-Ljbffr Ralantech