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MS SQL Server DBA - On Prem to AWS Migration

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Cognizant is seeking an experienced MS SQL Server DBA L3 to support large-scale migration of SQL Server environments from on-premises infrastructure to AWS. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in SQL Server administration, cloud migration, performance tuning, high availability, and production support. Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without any visa sponsorship. Cognizant will not sponsor visas now or anytime in the future.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead end-to-end migration of Microsoft SQL Server databases from on-premises environments to AWS (primarily SQL Server on Amazon EC2).
  • Assess existing SQL Server environments, dependencies, backups, HA/DR configurations, and migration readiness.
  • Design and execute migration, cutover, validation, and rollback plans.
  • Install, configure, and maintain SQL Server environments on AWS.
  • Perform database migrations using Backup/Restore, Log Shipping, Replication, Always On, and other migration approaches.
  • Support cutover activities and post-migration stabilization (hypercare).
  • Troubleshoot database performance, availability, connectivity, backup, and security issues.
  • Create migration runbooks, SOPs, validation checklists, and operational documentation.
  • Collaborate with application, cloud, infrastructure, security, and business teams throughout the migration lifecycle.

Required Skills & Experience

  • 8+ years of hands-on Microsoft SQL Server DBA experience.
  • Strong experience with SQL Server 2008 R2, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2022.
  • Proven experience migrating SQL Server workloads from on-premises to AWS or other cloud platforms.
  • Strong knowledge of Amazon EC2, EBS, VPC, Security Groups, and cloud-based SQL Server operations.
  • Expertise in SQL Server installation, configuration, patching, backup/recovery, performance tuning, and troubleshooting.
  • Experience with High Availability and Disaster Recovery technologies including:
    • Always On Availability Groups
    • Windows Server Failover Clustering
    • Failover Cluster Instances (FCI)
    • Replication
    • Log Shipping
    • Database Mirroring
  • Strong experience with Query Store, execution plans, indexing, deadlock analysis, TempDB optimization, and performance tuning.
  • Experience supporting SQL Server security, authentication, service accounts, certificates, and encryption.
  • Experience migrating SQL Server dependencies including Linked Servers, SQL Agent Jobs, SSIS, SSRS, and SSAS.

Preferred Qualifications

  • AWS certifications are a plus.
  • Experience with large-scale migration programs and migration factory models.
  • Strong communication, stakeholder management, and documentation skills.

The role is open to remote candidates located in the US. The salary range for this role is between $110,000 to $130,000 depending on skills and qualifications of the candidate. Applications will be accepted till 9/20/2026.

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.

Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.

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, state 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] for roles based in the Americas or [email protected] for roles based in India.

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 retirement plans, financial education, 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.

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