SQL Server DBA

About the Position

Cognizant is seeking a SQL Server DBA for a full-time hybrid opportunity in Des Moines, IA. The candidate needs to work out of the client’s office 3 days a week. 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 builder of AI solutions and a provider of technology services. We bridge the gap between AI investments and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep knowledge of sectors, processes, and engineering enables us to anchor the unique context of an organization in technological systems. These systems enhance human potential, deliver tangible results, and give global enterprises an edge in a rapidly changing world. Discover more at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.

Employment Terms

Our employment terms program is designed with you in mind - so you can enjoy a fulfilling, balanced, and healthy life.

Financial Health

We regularly assess market data to ensure that the compensation aligns with the value you bring. Your employment terms go beyond just salary and may include pension plans, financial education, and more.

Physical and Mental Health

We enable you to prioritize your well-being through paid leave, flexible working hours where possible, health insurance, counseling, our Mental Health Allyship program, and more.

Your Career, Your Way

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

Real-World Impact

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

Your Path to Cognizant

Here’s what you can expect from our recruitment process. Please note that this may vary by role and location. Check our FAQs for more information.

Step 1: Apply for the Right Role

Find an open role that matches your skills and career goals and show why you’re the right fit for the role. If you don’t see a suitable role, consider joining our Talent Community.

Step 2: Connect with Your Recruiter

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

Step 3: Showcase Your Skills

If you and our team want to continue the process, you’ll interview with our recruitment team. Some roles may also require technical assessments and/or client interviews.

Step 4: Time for a Decision

Our team will then evaluate each candidate’s potential to succeed in the role. This step may take some time as we want to find the right match - both for you and for us - but you can expect us to keep you updated.

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