Database Administrator

Position Summary

We're hiring a Database Administrator to operate and maintain a hybrid cloud data environment for a federal government client - AWS pipelines, relational databases, and a public-facing open data portal - ensuring stability, reliability, and security of production systems. Job location is the Washington, DC Metro Area. Hybrid options can be considered. Position is contingent upon contract award. 

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain established AWS-based workflows (Lambda, Glue, Step Functions, Redshift, RDS Postgres, SQL, S3, and related data services)
• Perform ongoing database administration: tuning, patching, backup/restore, and general maintenance
• Manage an open data portal and data catalog (e.g., CKAN); ensure accurate, timely dataset publication and support new visualizations
• Monitor platform health, logging, and alerts; perform initial incident triage and response
• Maintain and update SOPs, runbooks, and operational documentation on a regular cadence
• Provide end-user support and training on database access, credentials, and data usage tools
• Deliver regular SLA performance reports covering pipeline success rates, incident summaries, data availability, and operational metrics

Required Qualifications

• 3–7 years administering Amazon Redshift, RDS (PostgreSQL or SQL Server), or comparable managed data stores
• Experience with routine DBA tasks: backup/restore, tuning, patching, and performance optimization
• Experience supporting production data warehouses and resolving performance issues
• Experience designing or maintaining relational schemas, indexes, and partition strategies
• Proficiency in SQL; familiarity with Python or similar scripting for operational automation
• Experience in a government or regulated environment with SLA-driven deliverables

Preferred Experience

• Experience with federal government data projects. 

Preferred Certifications

• AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate
• AWS Certified Data Engineer – Associate
• AWS Certified Security – Specialty

Additional Requirements

Must be able to pass a federal background investigation prior to starting work and maintain eligibility throughout the engagement.

Salary range for this position is $150,000.00 - $165,000.00. 

Work Authorization: At this time, we are unable to sponsor new H-1B visas or other employment-based visa petitions for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship.

Why Join Us?

Join a collaborative team supporting high-impact federal programs that incorporate innovative technology solutions. You'll have the opportunity to lead complex modernization initiatives, work alongside talented technical professionals, and help shape the future of government IT and data management.

Synectics is an equal opportunity employer.