Job Title

The Database Operations Manager will lead database operations and performance optimization across a multi-company enterprise supporting approximately 1,100 employees. This role is responsible for ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and availability of both on-premises and Azure-based SQL Server environments. The position oversees database monitoring, backup strategies, performance tuning, and capacity planning while supervising offshore DBA contractors. This is a hands-on technical leadership role requiring deep expertise in SQL Server administration, Azure data platforms, and enterprise-scale database operations. Environment Overview This position supports shared services across a large ERP environment and additional database deployments for two smaller subsidiary companies. The database landscape includes a mix of custom-built and commercial off-the-shelf applications with extensive integrations. Infrastructure spans both on-premises and Azure-based environments including Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, SQL Server on Azure VMs, Azure Synapse, and migration paths to Microsoft Fabric and Foundry. Key Responsibilities Database Performance & Optimization Monitor, analyze, and optimize database performance across all SQL Server environments (on-premises and Azure-based) Conduct advanced performance tuning, query optimization, and indexing strategies Troubleshoot and resolve database integrity issues, blocking/deadlocking, connectivity, and security issues Perform capacity planning and resource optimization for very large databases (VLDBs) supporting OLTP applications Backup, Recovery & High Availability Design, implement, and manage enterprise backup and recovery strategies using Idera SQL backup tools Implement and maintain SQL Server high availability solutions (clustering, mirroring, Always On, replication) Execute and test disaster recovery procedures Monitoring & Operational Excellence Implement and maintain database monitoring solutions using Idera monitoring tools and SQL Server native tools (Performance Monitor, SQL Profiler, DMVs) Leverage monitoring and alerting to shift from reactive to proactive operations Execute DBCC commands and maintenance routines Automation & Efficiency Drive automation across database operations to reduce manual intervention and eliminate fragile processes Implement self-service capabilities where appropriate while maintaining proper guardrails Develop scripts and automation frameworks to improve operational efficiency Azure & Cloud Database Management Manage Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, and SQL Server on Azure VMs Support data warehouse operations in Azure Synapse and migrations to Microsoft Fabric and Foundry platforms Optimize cloud database costs and performance Data Platform & Pipeline Oversight Understand and support data pipelines including ingestion, transformation, orchestration, and downstream consumption Manage both batch and real-time data flows across the enterprise Partner closely with DBAs, data engineers, and analytics teams to ensure seamless data operations Reliability, Quality & Governance Define and enforce data SLAs and SLOs for database operations Implement data quality management practices, monitoring data freshness, completeness, and accuracy Support metadata management, lineage tracking, and data observability initiatives Collaborate on data governance, retention policies, and compliance requirements Database Development & Architecture Support Develop and troubleshoot stored procedures, functions, views, triggers, indexes, and constraints Review and approve database designs for new projects Partner with application engineers and the BI-focused Data Architect to align solutions with strategic direction Publish and enforce database standards Team Leadership & Management Supervise and mentor 2 offshore DBA contractors Develop clear performance goals and provide regular coaching and feedback Coordinate work assignments and ensure quality delivery across time zones Project & Stakeholder Management Provide regular updates on operational status, risks, and mitigation strategies Communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences Support multiple concurrent projects across the enterprise Maintain documentation for all database systems, configurations, and procedures Position Requirements Education Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field required Relevant certifications (Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate, MCSA: SQL Server, etc.) preferred Required Experience & Skills 8+ years of hands-on experience with SQL Server administration and performance tuning across enterprise-scale environments 5+ years of T-SQL programming, stored procedures, and database development experience Proven experience with Idera tools (SQL backup, monitoring, and diagnostic tools) or similar enterprise database management platforms Strong experience managing both on-premises and Azure-based SQL Server environments (Azure SQL Database, Managed Instance, VMs, Synapse) Extensive experience with database performance tuning, query optimization, and execution plan analysis Deep knowledge of backup and recovery strategies and high availability solutions Experience with very large databases (VLDBs) in OLTP environments Proficiency with SQL Server versions 2012 and above Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex database issues including performance bottlenecks, deadlocks, and connectivity problems Experience with automation and scripting (PowerShell, Python, or similar) to streamline database operations Understanding of data pipelines, ETL/ELT processes, and data integration patterns Supervisory or team lead experience, preferably managing remote or offshore resources Preferred Experience Experience with Microsoft Fabric and/or Palantir Foundry Familiarity with Azure Data Factory and data integration patterns Knowledge of data warehouse and BI architectures (SSIS, SSRS) Background supporting custom applications and ERP systems Experience with metadata management, data lineage, and data quality frameworks Familiarity with modern data stack technologies (data lakes, lakehouses, streaming platforms) Experience with other relational database platforms (PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle) and willingness to learn new technologies Key Characteristics & Soft Skills Strong leadership and people management skills with ability to mentor and develop team members Excellent problem-solving abilities with analytical and systematic troubleshooting approach Outstanding communication skills - able to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences Self-starter who is resourceful and comfortable working independently Comfortable with ambiguity and able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment Proactive and responsive - anticipates issues and acts before they become problems Working Conditions Standard business hours with on-call responsibilities for critical database issues In-office (Gainesville, GA or Houston, TX) with the option for a hybrid schedule after a 4-month introductory period All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.