Database Administrator

Database AdministratorJoin the City of Decatur's Information Technology team as the primary Database Administrator responsible for the enterprise databases that support critical City operations. You'll administer, maintain, and optimize the secure, reliable, high-performing databases that power public safety, finance, utilities, asset management, permitting, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.In this technical leadership role, you'll collaborate with IT staff, software vendors, and department leaders to enhance system performance, support mission-critical business applications, and help shape the City's long-term database infrastructure. If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges, improving enterprise systems, and applying your expertise in a collaborative public service environment, you'll find meaningful opportunities to make an impact every day.Enjoy an outstanding benefits package including:14.5 paid holidays, including two personal daysPaid vacation and sick leaveComprehensive health insuranceIMRF pensionEmployee health center offering free checkups, chronic care, immunizations, lab work, and many prescriptions for employees and eligible dependentsThis is an onsite position with a regular Monday–Friday schedule from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Key ResponsibilitiesEnterprise Database AdministrationInstall, configure, maintain, and optimize enterprise database platforms such as Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL, or similar technologies.Monitor database health, troubleshoot issues, perform performance tuning, and manage upgrades, patches, and lifecycle planning.Support high availability, disaster recovery, backup, and restoration strategies to ensure business continuity.Database Security & ComplianceAdminister database security, user permissions, encryption, and role-based access.Maintain compliance with City IT security policies and applicable data protection standards.Monitor audit logs and implement best practices to safeguard sensitive information.Application & Business Systems SupportSupport mission-critical applications including ERP, public safety, finance, utility billing, permitting, and asset management systems.Collaborate with application owners, vendors, and IT staff to troubleshoot issues, optimize database performance, and improve system functionality.Develop and maintain stored procedures, scripts, automation tools, and optimized queries for operational and business intelligence reporting.Technical Leadership & Continuous ImprovementMaintain database documentation, standards, and procedures.Provide technical guidance to IT staff and business users regarding database best practices.Evaluate emerging database technologies and participate in infrastructure planning and cybersecurity initiatives.Perform other related duties as assigned.Qualifications and Preferred SkillsEducation & ExperienceBachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, information systems, or a closely related field.Five years of progressively responsible enterprise database administration experience.Municipal or public sector experience is preferred.An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.Technical ExpertiseExperience administering Microsoft SQL Server or comparable enterprise database platforms.Experience supporting ERP, public safety, or other enterprise business applications.Knowledge of database architecture, indexing strategies, query optimization, backup and recovery, disaster recovery, and system integration.Experience with cloud database platforms such as Microsoft Azure SQL, AWS RDS, or similar environments is preferred.Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900) and/or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate (DP-300) certifications are preferred.Technical SkillsStrong SQL development skills, including stored procedures, scripting, and performance tuning.Ability to administer multiple database environments while maintaining high availability and data integrity.Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities with experience implementing effective technical solutions.Professional CompetenciesExcellent communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments and with technology vendors.Commitment to maintaining accurate technical documentation and protecting confidential information.Valid Illinois driver's license.Sponsorship for EmploymentThe City of Decatur does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B). To be considered for regular employment with the City of Decatur, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a continuous basis.More DetailsResidency Requirement Employees must reside within 50 miles of Decatur's corporate limits within 12 months of appointment.Why Decatur? Located in the heart of Central Illinois, Decatur offers an outstanding balance of professional opportunity and quality of life:Affordable Living: Ranked the #1 Best Affordable Place to Live in the U.S. (2025–2026) by U.S. News & World Report, with a low cost of living and attainable housing.Central Location: Conveniently located within driving distance of Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy Lake Decatur, over 2,000 acres of parks, trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, and more.Arts & Entertainment: Experience concerts at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Millikin University performances, the historic Lincoln Theatre, and a thriving public art scene.Family Activities: Explore Splash Cove Waterpark, Overlook Adventure Park, and Scovill Zoo.Career Opportunities: Decatur is home to major employers including ADM, Caterpillar, Primient, HSHS St. Mary's Hospital, and Decatur Memorial Hospital.To Apply Put your database expertise to work where it makes a lasting impact. Join a collaborative IT team responsible for the systems that support every City department and the essential services our community depends on. If you're ready to apply your technical expertise in a meaningful public service environment, we encourage you to apply using the link below. Be sure to include all requested information; incomplete applications will be rejected. The City of Decatur is a drug-free workplace, including marijuana. All candidates are subject to a post-offer pre-employment drug screen, physical examination, and background check.