Job Type: Contract

Job Category: IT

Job Description

Job Title: Senior SQL DBA (Performance Analyst)
Location: Remote (Toronto, ON)
Duration: 6-12 Months Contract (Possible extension)

Overview: We are seeking a proactive and technically skilled Database Administrator (DBA) to join our IT team. This role will focus on modernizing and managing our SQL database infrastructure with a strong emphasis on automation, cloud technologies, and performance optimization. You will play a critical role in ensuring our data platforms remain secure, scalable, and resilient in support of business growth and innovation.

What you will do

• Administer, support, and automate the full lifecycle of Microsoft SQL Server databases across on-prem and cloud environments.
• Drive automation of routine tasks using Azure DevOps Pipelines and Infrastructure-as-Code principles (e.g., build releases, backups, restores, environment refreshes).
• Optimize and maintain the performance, integrity, and security of production, development, and test databases.
• Perform advanced performance tuning and query optimization for high-volume, mission-critical systems.
• Establish and enforce database governance and security best practices aligned with regulatory and company requirements.
• Design and implement solutions for disaster recovery, high availability, and data retention compliance.
• Collaborate with application developers and DevOps engineers to define and enforce database architecture and standards.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation including system architecture diagrams, SOPs, and database design specifications.
• Manage database access control through automated, self-service provisioning in line with RBAC principles.
• Evaluate and recommend emerging technologies, including database platforms, monitoring tools, and cloud-native services.
• Deliver and maintain meaningful dashboards, reports, and monitoring metrics to stakeholders.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement through knowledge sharing, process refinement, and mentoring.
• Provide global database support, including on-call availability for high-severity incidents and changes.

What you require for the role

• Advanced proficiency in SQL and SQL Server management tools.
• Hands-on experience with data warehouse architecture and managing large, complex datasets.
• Expertise in database security, backup/recovery strategies, and performance monitoring.
• Strong scripting capabilities with PowerShell, Bash, or Python.
• Working knowledge of SSAS, SSIS, and SSRS.
• Solid experience with database administration, data modeling, and database design principles.
• Comfortable operating in both Windows Server and Linux environments.
• Practical experience with cloud database services such as Azure SQL, Amazon RDS, or Google Cloud SQL.
• Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and modern software development workflows.
• Experience working in Agile/Scrum teams and familiarity with the full SDLC.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with a customer-oriented mindset.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to operational excellence.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across global teams.

Required Skills