Database Operations Manager, Houston - Hybrid Schedule

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.