PostgreSQL Database Administrator

Mid-Level PostgreSQL Database Administrator

For 25 years, DrFirst has empowered providers and patients to achieve better health through intelligent medication management. We improve healthcare workflows and help patients start and stay on therapy with end-to-end solutions that enhance prescription access, affordability, and adherence. Our solutions help 100 million patients a year and are used by more than 420,000 prescribers, 71,000 pharmacies, 270 EHRs and health information systems, and over 2,000 hospitals in the U.S. This is a great opportunity to be a part of a successful Healthcare IT company experiencing significant growth. Here you'll get to work with some of the smartest and most interesting people around, solving unique and complex challenges in healthcare on a scale matched by few companies. If you get excited about stretching yourself in new ways, developing yourself to your fullest potential, and care about working with smart colleagues, we want to talk to you!

Position Overview

We are seeking a talented mid-level PostgreSQL Database Administrator to join our System Operations team. This role will be crucial in managing our PostgreSQL infrastructure, primarily running on AWS Aurora, supporting mission-critical healthcare applications. You'll work in a collaborative environment focused on automation, performance optimization, and operational excellence.

What You Will Work On

Database Management & Operations

• Manage day-to-day operations of PostgreSQL databases in AWS Aurora environments across multiple accounts
• Perform database setup, configuration, and deployment following best practices
• Implement and maintain backup and recovery strategies, ensuring data integrity and disaster recovery readiness
• Monitor database health, performance metrics, and capacity planning
• Execute database upgrades, patches, and migrations with minimal downtime

Performance Optimization

• Conduct performance tuning and optimization of PostgreSQL databases and queries
• Analyze and resolve database performance bottlenecks using AWS CloudWatch, AppDynamics, Grafana and other monitoring tools
• Optimize database parameters, indexes, and query execution plans
• Work with development teams to review and optimize SQL queries and database designs

AWS Cloud Infrastructure

• Leverage AWS Aurora PostgreSQL features including read replicas, automated backups, and high availability configurations
• Implement and manage Aurora clusters, parameter groups, and security configurations
• Utilize AWS services such as RDS, CloudWatch, Systems Manager, Lambda, and S3 for database operations
• Implement AWS best practices for security, monitoring, and cost optimization

Automation & Scripting

• Develop automation scripts using Python or other programming languages for routine database tasks
• Create tools for database provisioning, monitoring, alerting, and reporting
• Build and maintain CI/CD pipelines for database deployments
• Automate backup verification, database refresh processes, and compliance reporting

Collaboration & Support

• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for database-related issues
• Collaborate with DevOps, NetOps, and development teams on infrastructure and application initiatives
• Participate in on-call rotation for production support
• Document database procedures, configurations, and troubleshooting guides
• Contribute to database standards and best practices

Qualifications

Required:

• 4-7 years of hands-on experience as a PostgreSQL Database Administrator
• Strong experience with AWS Aurora PostgreSQL and RDS
• Proficiency in PostgreSQL performance tuning, query optimization, and troubleshooting
• Solid understanding of database backup and recovery strategies
• Experience with database security, user management, and access controls
• Programming skills in Python, Shell scripting, or similar languages for automation
• Knowledge of AWS services (CloudWatch, Lambda, S3, Systems Manager, IAM)
• Experience with database monitoring and alerting tools
• Strong understanding of SQL and relational database concepts
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred:

• Experience with PostgreSQL logical replication and streaming replication
• Familiarity with infrastructure as code (Terraform, CloudFormation)
• Experience with CI/CD tools (Jenkins, GitLab CI, AWS CodePipeline)
• Knowledge of other database platforms (Oracle, MySQL, Redshift)
• Experience in healthcare technology or regulated industries
• AWS certifications (Solutions Architect, Database Specialty)
• PostgreSQL certifications
• Familiarity with data warehousing and ETL processes

Physical Requirements

• 90% Desk work
• 10% Remote travel to client sites, conferences, or internal team meetings

Benefits

• Competitive compensation, with a base salary of $130,000 - $150,000 (Exact compensation may vary based on skills and experience)
• Eligible for Company Performance-based Bonus Program, based on individual and company performance
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401K eligible after 3 months of employment, with 50% company match up to first 5% of salary contributed to the plan with a 3-year vesting schedule
• HSA for eligible employees enrolled in the HDHP, with a generous company contribution up to $500 for individual coverage and $1000 for family coverage per year
• 100% company paid short and long-term disability, AD&D, and group life insurance
• Accrued annual paid time off (PTO) of 18 days for the first 3 years of service, increasing thereafter and 7 paid holiday days
• Employee Assistance Program
• Continuing Education funds up to $1500 annually for eligible programs after 1 year of service
• Voluntary benefits including FSA, Hospital indemnity, Accident and Critical Illness insurances