We are seeking a highly skilled Mid - to Senior SQL Server DBA/Developer. This is a hands-on, technical role responsible for administering, optimizing, modernizing, and supporting mission-critical SQL Server environments for a federal civilian agency in the Washington D.C. area. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in SQL Server internals, strong T-SQL development skills, takes ownership of work, collaborates effectively across teams, and thrives in a high-performance, data-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Database Administration & Operations

• Install, configure, patch, and upgrade SQL Server instances (2016, 2019, 2022)
• Manage Development, QA, Staging, and Production environments
• Configure and support Windows Server Failover Clustering (WSFC)
• Implement and maintain backup/recovery strategies and disaster recovery testing
• Create and maintain SQL Server Agent Jobs, Maintenance Plans, and Windows Task Scheduler jobs
• Configure and test Database Mail (DBMail)
• Monitor and optimize system health using DMVs, Extended Events, SQL Trace, Query Store, and wait statistics

Performance Tuning & SQL Server Internals

• Perform advanced performance tuning, indexing strategy design, and execution plan analysis
• Deep understanding of SQL Server engine internals including MAXDOP, cardinality estimator behavior, compatibility levels, memory and tempdb configuration
• Identify and resolve blocking, deadlocks, parameter sniffing, and other performance bottlenecks
• Use diagnostic tools such as sp_whoisactive, Idera, and Plan Explorer

T-SQL Development & Code Quality

• Design, develop, and optimize advanced T-SQL (stored procedures, functions, triggers, views)
• Peer-review SQL code and enforce development best practices
• Refactor existing stored procedures for performance and maintainability
• Identify and fix database code bugs; implement workarounds when necessary
• Troubleshoot application-related data issues and collaborate with software developers to resolve defects

Data Integration, Automation & Modernization

• Design and maintain SSIS packages and SSRS reports
• Import and export data across diverse source and destination systems
• Automate tasks using T-SQL, PowerShell, CMD, batch scripting, and dbatools
• Participate in SQL Server upgrades and modernization initiatives
• Support Infrastructure-as-Code and DevOps collaboration practices

Required Qualifications

• 7+ years of hands-on SQL Server DBA and development experience in production environments
• Strong expertise in HA/DR, Always On, and Failover Clustering
• Advanced T-SQL coding, troubleshooting, and performance tuning skills
• Extensive experience with SSIS and SSRS
• Experience creating SQL Agent Jobs, Maintenance Plans, Task Scheduler jobs, and DBMail configuration
• Strong knowledge of SQL Trace, Extended Events, DMVs, and system tables
• Experience with PowerShell, CMD, and batch scripting
• Experience patching and upgrading SQL Server instances
• Strong understanding of database security, encryption, masking, and access control
• Hands-on experience with Azure SQL and/or cloud-based database environments
• Working knowledge of Python for automation and data-related tasks is highly desirable

Core Competencies

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong critical thinking and analytical problem-solving abilities
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation discipline
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across cross-functional teams
• Accountable, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement

Not Required, but Strongly Preferred:

• Current Public Trust Clearance
• Previous experience in Federal space