Senior SQL Database Administrator

Verra Mobility; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Verra Mobility is seeking a Senior SQL Database Administrator to lead the design, optimization, and security of enterprise database platforms. In this role, you'll work closely with engineering and business teams to ensure high-performing database environments, implement modernization initiatives including cloud migration, and mentor junior DBAs.

The ideal candidate will have 7+ years of experience with SQL Server and strong expertise in Azure SQL. This position emphasizes accountability and collaboration, aligning with our company values.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience administering SQL Server environments.
• Deep expertise in SQL Server (2014–2022) and troubleshooting.
• Experience with Azure SQL and migration strategies.

Responsibilities

• Lead database architecture and strategy for SQL Server.
• Drive database modernization initiatives through cloud migration.
• Own performance tuning and indexing strategies in high-transaction systems.

Skills

SQL Server Administration

Performance Tuning

Azure SQL

Automation (PowerShell, Python)

Incident Management Tools

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Tools

SolarWinds

Azure Monitor

Job description

Position Overview

The Senior SQL Database Administrator (DBA) is a strategic technical leader responsible for the design, optimization, security, and scalability of enterprise database platforms. This role partners closely with engineering, infrastructure, and business teams to ensure high-performing, resilient, and secure database environments that support mission-critical applications.

This individual serves as a subject matter expert (SME) for SQL Server environments, drives best practices, leads complex initiatives (cloud, automation, modernization), and mentors junior DBAs.

Essential Responsibilities

• Lead database architecture & strategy
• Design, implement, and optimize SQL Server database solutions across on-premises and cloud environments (Azure).
• Drive database modernization initiatives, including cloud migration and hybrid architectures.
• Own performance tuning, indexing strategies, and query optimization for large-scale, high-transaction systems.
• Proactively identify bottlenecks and implement solutions to ensure scalability and reliability.
• Architect and maintain HA/DR solutions (Always On Availability Groups, replication, backups, failover strategies).
• Ensure business continuity and compliance with uptime SLAs in a 24x7 environment.
• Lead database security strategy including access controls, encryption, auditing, and regulatory compliance.
• Partner with security teams to ensure adherence to data governance standards.
• Drive adoption of Azure database services, including performance optimization, cost management, and scaling strategies.
• Develop automation using PowerShell, Python, or similar tools to streamline operations and reduce manual effort.
• Oversee monitoring, incident response, and root cause analysis using enterprise tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Azure Monitor).
• Improve operational processes, documentation, and runbooks for consistency and efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering, DevOps, and application teams to optimize database interactions and support product delivery.
• Serve as escalation point for complex database issues.
• Mentor junior DBAs and contribute to team development and knowledge sharing.
• Influence technical direction and establish database best practices across the organization.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience administering and optimizing SQL Server environments in enterprise-scale environments
• Deep expertise in SQL Server (2014–2022), including performance tuning, HA/DR, and troubleshooting
• Strong experience with Azure SQL / cloud database platforms, including migration, scaling, and cost optimization
• Experience with hybrid environments and data replication technologies (e.g., Oracle GoldenGate)
• Familiarity with Oracle environments (nice to have, not primary focus)
• Advanced scripting and automation experience (PowerShell, Python, etc.)
• Strong experience with monitoring, alerting, and incident management tools
• Experience with data warehousing and BI concepts
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent experience
• Successful completion of the Nlets fingerprinting background assessment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience leading database strategy or large-scale transformation projects
• Strong expertise in performance tuning for high-volume transactional systems
• Experience partnering with executive stakeholders or product leadership
• Exposure to DevOps practices (CI/CD, infrastructure as code)

Personal Skills and Attributes

• Strong problem-solving and analytical mindset with the ability to navigate complex technical environments
• Excellent communication skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Ability to lead initiatives independently and influence across teams
• Adaptable in fast-pace, evolving environments
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on reliability and quality

Verra Mobility Values

• Own It. We focus on high performance and drive toward breakthrough outcomes. Our employees ensure accountability, optimize and align work, focus on the customer, and cultivate innovation.
• Do What’s Right. We champion integrity and good character. Our team members model ethical behavior, demonstrate good judgment and are courageous.
• Choose Courage Over Comfort. We lean into the conversations, decisions and actions that move the business forward, even when they feel uncomfortable. We challenge assumptions, address issues early and prioritize progress over ease.
• Win Together. We believe in growing and inspiring people together. We seek people who collaborate, value differences, think and act globally, foster an engaging work environment, and recognize and develop others.

Verra Mobility is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.