IT DBA Journey

State of Washington; Tumwater (WA); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Washington Office of the Secretary of State (OSOS) Division of Information Technology is seeking a permanent IT DBA to manage statewide databases, design cloud-based architectures, and ensure security and availability of critical data across OSOS systems.

Responsibilities include database administration, testing, and support for OSOS applications, working with senior IT staff to modernize and safeguard enterprise data while meeting regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Four years of information technology experience in consulting, analyzing, designing, programming, or maintaining software applications.
• 1 year of experience in Azure SQL or other cloud-based environments.
• Ability to read and write English.
• Ability to use a PC and standard software to perform essential functions.

Responsibilities

• Manages and maintains statewide electronic records databases.
• Designs and implements database architectures including cloud-based databases.
• Oversees performance, security, and availability of databases.

Skills

IT experience

Azure SQL

Cloud environments

Data modeling

SQL proficiency

English literacy

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Associate degree

Master’s degree

Tools

SQL Server

Azure

Elastic Search

Job description

The Office of Secretary of State (OSOS) offers some of the most unique and diverse job opportunities in state government. Its critical responsibilities include: ensuring a fair and accurate elections process; connecting Washingtonians through the power of libraries; protecting our important government records; and registering corporations and charities. The Secretary of State also administers vital community programs that inspire giving, document our history, and assist crime survivors in avoiding further abuse. This independent office under the state Constitution operates from facilities in the Olympia area and statewide.

The OSOS is looking for top-performing employees who embody its core values of integrity, service excellence, visionary leadership, collaboration and teamwork. It is committed to both employee growth and work-life balance. The benefits of working in state government also include potential eligibility for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Visit our website at: www.sos.wa.gov.

The Division of Information Technology (IT) ensures that all technology systems within OSOS business programs run smoothly, securely, and efficiently. We are the strategic partner in driving business goals, improving operational efficiency, and safeguarding critical data and systems. IT is deeply involved in ensuring the seamless flow of information, providing scalability and innovation, handling everything from hardware, software and tools to complex systems delivering valuable customer experience.

IT DBA Journey

Permanent, Full-Time

The Application and Data Management program is responsible to provide core IT application and data management maintenance and support, while striving for continuous modernization and innovation of existing systems supported within OSOS IT in partnership with Business. This position provides database administration, unit testing and technical support for OSOS IT applications, under the direction of senior IT staff. This position assists with consulting, designing, and quality assurance for system enhancements, maintenance of the data base, fully resolves and test system defects, and provides system support to business users on a continuous basis.

Manage large statewide systems

Tasks include:

• Manages and improves statewide electronic records databases.
• Responsible for data storage repositories. This includes any future storage that serves as the digital object repository. It also includes future storage like Elastic Search which is used for meta data searches.
• Designs and implements database architectures, including the development and upkeep of cloud-based databases.
• Oversees and ensures the performance, security, and availability of databases.
• Develops strategies for database expansion and storage capacity needs.
• Evaluates recovery scenarios and establishes backup requirements. This includes designing and executing backup and recovery procedures and schedules.
• Ensures data integrity, enforces security protocols, and guarantees compliance with data regulations.
• Builds and maintains processing environments, including development, testing, and production systems.
• Requests storage allocation, writes database scripts, and prepares data for loading.

Maintains large data repository

Tasks include:

• Requests storage allocation, writes database scripts, and prepares data for loading.
• Manages applications for reviewing repository data.
• Monitors database systems to maintain secure services and minimize downtime.
• Stays current with the latest Azure technologies, trends, and techniques.
• Responsible for creating and documenting security protocols and emergency database recovery plans.

Miscellaneous

Tasks include:

• Supports internal staff and external customers in troubleshooting issues.

Required Qualifications:

• Four yearsof information technology experience such as: consulting, analyzing, designing, programming, installing and/or maintaining computer software applications; providing customer or technical support in information technology disciplines.
  • ORAn associate’s degree in technology or related field with 2 years of Information Technology experience*.
  • ORA bachelor’s degree in technology or related field.
  • ORA master’s degree in technology or related field.
  • ORany combination of education and experience that is equal to 4 years. (Education is credited towards experience on a year for year basis)
• At least one year of experience must be independently working on a system or project for large workgroup, or single business function in an Azure SQL or other cloud-based environment
• Ability to efficiently use a personal computer and applicable software to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.
• Ability to read and write English Language.

Information Technology Experience *

is the progressive technical expertise of enterprise solution design and engineering in any of the following functional & technical IT domain areas:

• Software development & engineering (web, mobile, desktop, and embedded systems).
• Cybersecurity (network, asset, risk)
• Cloud computing & DevOps: (cloud architecture, management, and workflow automation)
• Data Science, AI & Analytics (big data, machine learning, data mining, and AI systems)
• Network administration (design and support)
• Quality Assurance (QA testing for failures, missed features and quality)
• Database Administration (managing and securing data stores, tuning & optimization)
• Emerging Tech

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrated proficiency of:

• Data modeling
• Physical database design
• Database documentation
• Database security
• SQL Server
• Microsoft Azure

Demonstrated experience of:

• Design, development, and maintenance of web Environment.
• Object Oriented programming theory and principles.
• Application development for preserving and providing access to electronic records that includes data backup, versioning, storing and retrieving data.

PLEASE READ: If you have gotten this far and are thinking you do not qualify, consider again. Studies have shown that members of historically marginalized and underrepresented communities, specifically women and people of color, are less likely to apply to jobs unless they clearly meet every single qualification. At the Office of the Secretary of State, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic work force with a foundation of belonging. If you are excited about this role and have relevant experience and skills, but question whether your experience aligns perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply regardless. You may just be the ideal candidate this office needs.

Working Conditions

The role necessitates an individual who can function effectively both independently and as part of a team. It demands the ability to excel under pressure in order to meet stringent deadlines. The candidate must demonstrate adaptability within the rapidly evolving realm of web development, particularly with regards to website security. Thoroughness and precision in task execution are paramount, as is the capability to manage multiple tasks concurrently. Proficiency in interpersonal and communication skills, directed towards both internal and external stakeholders, is a fundamental requirement. The standard work hours are Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm. However, there is an expectation of availability beyond these hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, particularly during unforeseen emergencies. The role includes the physical ability to handle objects weighing up to 50 lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation. Additionally, readiness to travel to different office locations within the state on short notice is essential. The work environment is predominantly office-based, involving prolonged periods of sitting and extensive utilization of the keyboard.

Remote work is allowed per office policy; however, you must be in the office full time for the six-month trial services/probationary period and three days in person (50% of time) after that.

Special Requirements

• This position is in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE)and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, The Office of the Secretary of State, and the WFSE.
• Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.

The Office of the Secretary of State is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We do not discriminate on the basis of religion, age, gender, marital status, color, creed, national origin, political affiliation, military status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any sensory, mental or physical ability. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing the announcement in alternative format, should call [phone].