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SQL Server DBA

00069848175

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.

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.

Qualifications:

Candidates must have over 7 years of experience with the technical skills below:

  • 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.

Cloud & Modern Platform Exposure (Preferred)

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

About Cognizant: 
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.

Additional employment information
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Language requirements vary depending on roles, but we ask that all candidates have basic English proficiency for company-wide communications purposes. For roles based in Quebec, professional English proficiency is required, as you’ll deliver services to and collaborate with stakeholders outside the province who may not speak French.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial or local laws.

If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] with your request and contact information.

Benefits that help you thrive and grow

Our benefits program is built with you in mind—so you can enjoy a fulfilling, balanced and healthy life.

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Financial wellbeing

We regularly review market data to ensure compensation reflects the value you bring. Your benefits extend beyond pay and may include financial education, a pension plan with matching contributions, etc.

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Physical and mental health

We empower you to prioritize your wellbeing through paid time off, flexible working where possible, healthcare plans, counselling, our Mental Health Allyship program and more. 

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Your career, your way

With 350,000+ roles at Cognizant, you’ll have opportunities explore new technologies, industries and locations—and build the skills you need to grow your career.

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Real-world impact

Think about the biggest brands you rely on. Chances are, they rely on us to help strengthen their business. Here, you’ll turn bold ideas into solutions that improve lives everywhere.

Your path to Cognizant

Here’s what you can expect from our hiring process. Please keep in mind that it may vary by role and location. Explore our FAQs to learn more.

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Step 1: Apply to the right opportunity

Find an open role that matches your skills and career goals and show us why you’re the person for the job. Don’t see the right opportunity? Consider joining our Talent Community.

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Step 2: Connect with your recruiter

If one of our recruiters sees a fit, they’ll set up a short intro call to learn more about you and how your experiences and skills match the role.

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Step 3: Show off your skills

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

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Step 4: Decision time

Our team will then review each candidates’ potential to succeed in the role. This step may take some time because we want to find the right fit for both you and us—but you can count on us to keep you updated.

CAN Brigitte
Cognizant is great for those wanting to make the world a better place, as we create solutions with top technology partners to address complex problems for our clients.
Brigitte Roy Director of Strategy Alliances
CAN Rahul
I’m supported by motivational leaders who empower me to grow in my career through learning programs, industry conferences and internal job moves. I’m proud of the career progression I’m making here.
Rahul Sathe Principal Product Architect – Insurance
Can Amita
The moment I joined Cognizant, I felt like I belonged. I was heard and empowered to challenge ideas—and I still am to this day.
Dr. Amita Oppal Gill Service Line Sales Manager
1 (2)
Cognizant has one of the best learning ecosystems you can ask for. From sponsored certifications to training platforms to mentorship, we have all that we need to grow.
Debashish Mishra SAP MM Developer

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