About the Position

Cognizant is seeking a SQL Server DBA for a full-time opportunity in Des Moines, IA. The candidate needs to work out of the client’s office 3 days a week. This is a Hybrid role. Qualified applicants must have valid US work authorization. Cognizant will not offer visa sponsorship now or anytime in the future.

Responsibilities

Database Administration & Operations

Manage and support SQL Server databases across Development, Test, UAT, and Production environments.
Perform database code, schema, and object migrations in compliance with established change management procedures.
Execute daily operational health checks, backup verification, job monitoring, database consistency checks, and capacity reviews.
Install, configure, upgrade, patch, and maintain SQL Server instances while minimizing business disruption.
Manage database storage, growth, capacity planning, and lifecycle management activities.

Performance Management & Optimization

Monitor database and server performance, proactively identifying and resolving CPU, memory, I/O, storage, locking, blocking, and resource contention issues.
Perform advanced performance tuning using:
- SQL Profiler
- Query Store
- Execution Plans
- Dynamic Management Views (DMVs)
- Extended Events
- Performance Monitor (PerfMon)
Optimize SQL queries, stored procedures, indexes, database objects, and execution plans to improve application performance and reduce response times.
Establish performance baselines and implement proactive monitoring strategies.

Database Architecture & Engineering

Design, architect, and implement scalable, secure, and highly available SQL Server environments.
Collaborate with Infrastructure, Server, Storage, Network, and Application teams to develop robust database platforms.
Review database deployments and migration requests to ensure compliance with security, performance, scalability, and infrastructure standards.
Participate in enterprise database modernization and cloud transformation initiatives.

High Availability & Disaster Recovery

Implement and manage SQL Server HA/DR solutions, including:
- Always On Availability Groups
- Failover Clustering
- Log Shipping
- Replication
- Disaster Recovery Planning
Develop, maintain, and test database backup, recovery, and business continuity procedures.
Conduct periodic restore testing and disaster recovery exercises.

Security & Compliance

Manage database security through user provisioning, role management, permissions, and access controls.
Ensure compliance with organizational security policies, audit requirements, and regulatory standards.
Conduct database security reviews and remediate vulnerabilities and risks.

Migration, Upgrades & Automation

Lead database migrations, refreshes, cloning activities, platform upgrades, cloud migrations, and consolidation initiatives.
Automate routine DBA tasks using:
- PowerShell
- T-SQL
- SQL Server Agent Jobs
- Automation Frameworks
Develop scripts, utilities, and monitoring solutions to improve operational efficiency and reliability.

Incident & Production Support

Provide 24x7 support for critical production databases and applications.
Troubleshoot database-related incidents and service disruptions.
Perform Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and implement preventive measures.
Work closely with application, infrastructure, and vendor teams to ensure SLA compliance and service availability.

Requirements

Strong administration experience with:
- Microsoft SQL Server 2016/2019/2022
- SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)
Expertise in:
- T-SQL Development
- Performance Tuning
- Index Optimization
- Query Optimization
- Database Design
Hands-on experience with:
- Always On Availability Groups
- Clustering
- Replication
- Log Shipping
Experience with backup and recovery strategies and tools.
Strong understanding of database security, compliance, and auditing.
Experience with PowerShell scripting and automation.
Knowledge of Windows Server administration and infrastructure concepts.

Nice to Have

Azure SQL Database
Azure Managed Instance
AWS RDS SQL Server
Cloud migration tools and methodologies

About the Company

Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) is a technology services and AI solutions developer. We bridge the gap between AI investments and real business value, creating end-to-end full-stack AI solutions for our clients. With our deep industry, process, and engineering expertise, we integrate the specific needs of businesses seamlessly into technology systems. This way, we unlock human potential, achieve tangible results, and secure the critical edge for global companies in a rapidly changing world. Learn more at cognizant.ai or follow us on Twitter.

Benefits

Financial Security

We regularly review market data to ensure that compensation reflects the value you bring. Our benefits go beyond salary and may include retirement plans, financial education, and more.

Physical and Mental Health

We empower you to put your well-being first-through paid time off, flexible work models where possible, health benefits, counseling, our Mental Health Allyship Program, and much more.

Your Career, Your Path

With over 350,000 positions at Cognizant, you have the opportunity to explore new technologies, industries, and locations-and build the skills you need to advance your career.

Real-World Impact

Think of the biggest brands you rely on. Chances are, they rely on us to power their business. Here, you turn bold ideas into solutions that improve lives everywhere.

Your Journey to Cognizant

Here’s what to expect during our hiring process. Please note that this may vary by role and location. Visit our FAQs for more information.

Step 1: Apply for the Right Role

Find an open position that matches your skills and career goals, and show us why you’re the right fit for the job. Can’t find the right opportunity? Join our Talent Community.

Step 2: Connect with Your Recruiter

If one of our recruiters sees a match, they’ll schedule a brief introductory call to learn more about you and how your experience and skills align with the position.

Step 3: Showcase Your Skills

If you and our team decide to move forward, you’ll engage with our hiring team. Some positions may require technical assessments and/or client interviews.

Step 4: Time for Decision

Our team will then review each candidate’s potential to succeed in the role. This step may take some time as we want to find the right fit for you and for us-but you can trust that we’ll keep you updated along the way.

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SQL Server DBA

Job description