Lead Database Engineer

We're seeking a Lead Database Engineer to join our Data Security Team . This role is ideal for a seasoned professional who thrives in dynamic environments and has a passion for building secure, scalable, and high-performing database solutions. As a Lead Database Engineer , you will serve as a subject matter expert in database administration and security , leading initiatives that ensure data integrity, compliance, and protection across enterprise systems. You will work closely with internal teams to assess current environments, identify gaps, and implement best practices aligned with ITIL standards and industry security frameworks. Key Responsibilities Lead database security initiatives and drive implementation of secure database solutions for enterprise systems. Plan, coordinate, and design technical solutions to support evolving business and security needs. Conduct 360-degree security assessments on in-flight and pre-flight projects. Evaluate existing systems to identify vulnerabilities and performance gaps; recommend and implement enhancements. Ensure adherence to all technical standards, infrastructure strategies, and service-level agreements. Design, configure, and administer relational database management systems (RDBMS). Develop and optimize database structures, including views, triggers, stored procedures , and indexing strategies. Monitor database performance, capacity, and growth; ensure high availability and disaster recovery readiness. Collaborate with development and application teams to integrate security best practices into solution design. Communicate complex technical issues and associated risks to technical and executive stakeholders. Maintain up-to-date documentation of database configurations, security controls, and architecture diagrams. Required Skills & Qualifications 10+ years of overall IT industry experience, with at least 5+ years in Database Administration for complex, enterprise-scale environments. Proven expertise with relational database systems (e.g., Oracle, SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MySQL). Experience with installation, configuration, maintenance, and optimization of RDBMS software. Strong knowledge of database security principles , access control, encryption, and auditing. Hands-on experience in performance tuning, replication, clustering, and backup/recovery strategies. Demonstrated ability to track and report on database capacity, utilization, and overall health. Solid understanding of IT security frameworks, compliance standards, and risk management . Familiarity with common vulnerabilities, attack vectors, and mitigation strategies . Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical details to non-technical audiences. Experience collaborating with cross-functional development and infrastructure teams. Education & Certifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (required). Preferred Certifications: Database Administration (e.g., Oracle Certified Professional, Microsoft Certified Database Administrator). Security Certifications such as CompTIA Security+ , SSCP , or AWS Security . Additional Information This is a high-visibility role supporting Client's data protection and compliance initiatives. Candidates must be able to operate in a fast-paced, multi-project environment with minimal supervision. Strong potential for contract renewal or transition into long-term initiatives within Client's Data Security division. Equiliem