At ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our success starts and ends with our people, so we built a company where great people can do great things, with the resources and autonomy to make decisions that transform organizations. We operate as one team of diverse people, united by a passion for continuous growth and optimization. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation. www.validatek.com

The SQL Database Administrator (DBA) is responsible for the design, implementation, administration, and optimization of enterprise-level Microsoft SQL Server databases that support mission-critical applications and services. This role ensures the reliability, performance, security, and availability of all database systems across production, testing, and development environments.

The SQL DBA works closely with systems engineers, application developers, and cybersecurity personnel to maintain database integrity, enhance performance, and support ongoing modernization and migration initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in SQL Server technologies, database architecture, and data management best practices.

Database Administration & Maintenance

• Install, configure, and maintain Microsoft SQL Server (2012 and newer) in standalone and clustered environments.
• Manage database instances, including SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS), Reporting Services (SSRS), and Analysis Services (SSAS) as applicable.
• Perform regular database maintenance tasks, such as backups, restores, re-indexing, consistency checks, and statistics updates.
• Monitor database performance, troubleshoot issues, and tune SQL queries, indexes, and configurations to ensure optimal efficiency.
• Implement database replication, log shipping, and high-availability/disaster recovery (HA/DR) solutions.

Design, Development & Implementation

• Design and develop database structures, schemas, and stored procedures to support enterprise applications and data processing needs.
• Collaborate with software engineers to design efficient, scalable, and secure data models that align with business and mission requirements.
• Support the integration of databases with enterprise applications, middleware, and reporting systems.
• Develop and maintain data migration and transformation workflows using SQL scripts or ETL tools.

Security & Compliance

• Implement and enforce database security best practices, including authentication, authorization, encryption, and auditing.
• Manage database user accounts, roles, and access permissions in accordance with organizational and federal security standards.
• Ensure compliance with applicable frameworks (e.g., NIST, DISA STIGs, or DoD RMF) for database systems.
• Support data protection, integrity, and privacy initiatives through regular audits and configuration reviews.

Performance Monitoring & Optimization

• Proactively monitor system performance and identify areas for improvement in query efficiency, resource utilization, and storage management.
• Use performance monitoring tools such as SQL Profiler, Database Engine Tuning Advisor, or Query Store to identify and remediate performance bottlenecks.
• Conduct capacity planning and forecasting to ensure adequate database resources for future growth and workloads.

Backup, Recovery & High Availability

• Develop, implement, and test backup and disaster recovery (DR) strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Validate backup integrity and maintain documentation for restoration procedures.
• Configure and maintain SQL clustering, Always On Availability Groups, and failover configurations for high availability.

Collaboration & Documentation

• Collaborate with application developers, network administrators, and systems engineers to troubleshoot and resolve database-related issues.
• Participate in change control, release management, and system upgrade planning.
• Document all database designs, configurations, procedures, and standards for consistency and audit readiness.
• Provide mentoring and technical guidance to junior DBAs or support personnel.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Systems Analysis, or related discipline; or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience designing, implementing, and managing Microsoft SQL Server 2012 or newer databases.
• Proficiency in:
• Database design and normalization principles.
• SQL programming, stored procedures, triggers, and functions.
• Backup and recovery planning and implementation.
• Database performance tuning and query optimization.
• HA/DR configuration and maintenance.
• Strong understanding of Windows Server environments and Active Directory integration.
• Familiarity with PowerShell scripting or automation tools for database administration tasks.

• Must be able to pass the DHS law enforcement background check.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certifications such as:
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate
• Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA)
• Experience with Azure SQL, SQL Managed Instance, or cloud-based database administration.

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications.

The upper end of the salary range may be reserved for individuals who have demonstrated tenure with the company, seniority, and proven excellent performance. This includes factors such as education, certifications, and extensive/unique experience beyond what is required.

ValidaTek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to verify authorization to work in the United States.

Offers of employment will be contingent upon passing a post-offer background check.