Microsoft SQL Database and Windows Specialist - Contract - Onsite

SUMMARY:
Microsoft SQL Database and Windows Specialist - Contract - Onsite

POSITION INFO:

Our Client a Global Tech firm is seeking an Microsoft SQL Database and Windows Specialist to join their team in Johannesburg on a contract basis.

Responsibilities:

• Active Directory: Manage and maintain Active Directory services, including domain controllers and group policies.
• Server and Database Management: Install, configure, upgrade, and maintain Windows server and database software (such as Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL).
• Monitoring and Performance: Monitor and optimise database performance by analysing query performance, indexing, and system resource utilisation. Monitor system performance, resource utilisation, and troubleshoot issues.
• Backup and Recovery: Implement backup and recovery strategies to ensure data integrity and availability in case of failures or disasters.
• Security (User access management): Manage database security by setting up user access, permissions, and encryption mechanisms to protect sensitive data. Implement security measures, including firewalls, antivirus software, and user access controls.
• Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve issues related to database connectivity, performance, and data integrity.
• Capacity Planning: Estimate future database growth and plan for hardware and storage requirements.
• High Availability: Set up and manage high availability solutions such as clustering, replication, or mirroring to minimise downtime.
• Database Design: Collaborate with application developers to design and optimise database schemas.
• Patch Management: Apply patches, updates, and security fixes to the database and Windows systems.
• Report writing and dashboard design per business unit requirements.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelors degree in computer science, Information Security, or a related field.
• 5 years experience in SQL DBA and Windows Server medium to enterprise organisations.
• In-depth knowledge of SQL and database management systems.
• Knowledge of Active Directory and group policies.
• Proficiency in database design and normalization.
• Experience with database performance tuning and optimization.
• Managing backup and recovery strategies.
• Strong knowledge of database security practices.
• Knowledge of high availability and disaster recovery solutions.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Good communication skills to work with various other stakeholders and ICT teams.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator, Certified Professional) can be advantageous.
• Proficiency in Windows server operating systems.
• Familiarity with networking concepts and configurations.
• Experience in system security and access controls.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Scripting and automation skills (PowerShell, batch scripting, etc.).
• Understanding of virtualization technologies.
• Good communication skills for collaborating with other IT teams and stakeholders.
• Knowledge and skills in PowerBI, data management, and analytics can be advantageous.