SENIOR DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR

Senior Database Administrator

Join Durham County Government Durham County Government is home to over 2,000 dedicated professionals working together to deliver essential services that strengthen and support our vibrant, diverse community. As the heart of a fast-growing region, we offer meaningful careers across a wide range of fields—giving you the opportunity to make a real impact where you live, work, grow, and play.

DEPARTMENT: Information Services & Technology

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this position is to design, configure, implement, document, and report on databases within the Enterprise platform, primarily SQL Server. Support Applications Development, other IT divisions, and county-wide business users. This class works independently, under limited supervision, reporting major activities through periodic meetings.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Designs, configures, and maintains the physical database structures required to keep application software current.
• Provides technical guidance to applications programmers on the effective use of the specific database management system.
• Monitors the specific database management systems engine performance.
• Conduct database tuning; trouble-shoot issues in code and/or applications.
• Utilize various components of SQL Server such as SSAS, SSRS, SSIS, and PowerBI.
• Defines and addresses data security; provides database encryption, backup, recovery, version upgrades and migrations.
• Assists in the implementation and release certification of the specific database management system.
• Conducts server maintenance such as patching, cumulative updates, and applying service packs regularly.
• Assists in the creation, maintenance, and enforcement of standards for all databases.
• Research, acquires, and implements utilities that work with the specific database management system.
• Provides technical input into the selection of vendor application software packages.
• Performs related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• High-availability solutions (Always On Availability Groups, SQL Server Clustering, Database Mirroring, etc.)
• Database security, backup, and recovery techniques
• Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) for database management and deployment
• 3rd party database management tools (preferred)
• Power BI design and deployment (preferred)
• SSRS and Power BI Report Server installation and administration
• SSIS experience (preferred)
• Oracle database experience (a plus)
• Performance tuning techniques, indexing, and query optimization
• Database security best practices and disaster recovery strategies
• Automation tools (PowerShell, SQLCMD, etc.) for routine maintenance tasks
• Data visualization and reporting using Power BI
• Managing and configuring SSRS and Power BI Report Server
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Ability to optimize database performance and ensure high availability
• Ability to adapt to new technologies and tools quickly

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline, plus a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in database design, administration, and security; or, in lieu of the required degree, a minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in database design, administration, and security that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the duties of the position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or sustained keyboard operations.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT): None

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIREMENTS:

Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history.

STANDARD CLAUSES:

May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Durham County.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS:

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses. Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE:

Durham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Durham County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT:

This position may be subject to a background check, which could include, but is not limited to, criminal history (employment-related and/or SBI fingerprint-based), credit history, motor vehicle records, educational verification, and checks of the sexual offender registry, depending on the specific requirements of the role. A conviction record does not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment consideration, unless otherwise required by applicable state law.