Role Overview :
We are seeking a SQL Ops Engineer to ensure the performance, reliability, security, and availability of SQL database platforms that power healthcare data ecosystems. You will manage operational aspects of relational databases (primarily Microsoft SQL Server), support high-stakes healthcare workloads, and provide foundational stability for data pipelines and applications.
Key Responsibilities :
- Install, configure, upgrade, patch, and maintain SQL Server (and other RDBMS) instances in on-prem, cloud, and hybrid environments.
- Perform performance tuning — query optimization, indexing strategies, execution plan analysis, and resource governance.
- Design and implement high availability and disaster recovery solutions (Always On Availability Groups, clustering, replication, backups).
- Monitor database health, capacity, and performance using native and third-party tools; proactively resolve bottlenecks.
- Manage security, encryption, auditing, access controls, and compliance requirements (HIPAA, data privacy, PHI protection).
- Automate routine operations (maintenance plans, monitoring scripts, alerting) using PowerShell, T-SQL, or Python.
- Troubleshoot and resolve database incidents; conduct root-cause analysis and implement permanent fixes.
- Support data migration, integration, and replication projects across systems.
- Collaborate with DataOps Engineers to ensure databases provide optimal support for pipelines and analytics.
- Participate in on-call support and ensure adherence to strict SLAs for uptime and performance in a 24/7 healthcare environment.
Required Qualifications & Skills :
- 8 years of hands-on experience as a SQL Database Administrator, SQL Ops Engineer, or equivalent.
- Deep expertise in Microsoft SQL Server administration, tuning, and high availability features.
- Strong command of T-SQL, indexing, execution plans, and performance troubleshooting.
- Experience with backup/recovery strategies, security hardening, and compliance in regulated industries.
- Proficiency in automation scripting (PowerShell, T-SQL) and monitoring tools (SQL Server Management Studio, Extended Events, Azure Monitor, or similar).
- Solid understanding of healthcare data environments and regulatory requirements (HIPAA, PHI).
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills.
- Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Azure SQL Database, Managed Instance, or hybrid cloud SQL setups.
- Knowledge of other RDBMS (PostgreSQL, MySQL) is a plus.
- Exposure to medical device or EMS data platforms.
- Relevant certifications (Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator, MCSE, etc.).