Azure SQL Database Administrator (DBA)

JOB TITLE: AZURE SQL DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR (DBA)

LOCATION: BRUSSELS, BELGIUM

LANGUAGES: ENGLISH, (DUTCH OR FRENCH IS PREFERABLE)

WORK MODE: HYBRID (2 TO 3 DAYS ONSITE PER WEEK)

DURATION: ASAP - LONG TERM

ROLE OVERVIEW

• We are looking for an experienced and hands-on Azure SQL Database Administrator (DBA) to support our SQL platform hosted on Microsoft Azure during an international operational transition.
• As part of our strategy to transfer operational activities to our team in Portugal, we are seeking an external consultant who can ensure business continuity while actively supporting a structured knowledge transfer.
• The assignment will involve taking over responsibilities from the current DBA, independently managing day-to-day operations, and gradually transferring knowledge and responsibilities to the new team in Portugal.

The key objective is to ensure a stable, well-documented SQL environment and a successful handover by the end of June 2027.

key responsibilities

Database Operations & Support

• Manage and maintain the daily operations of our SQL platform hosted on Microsoft Azure.
• Monitor database health, availability, performance and stability.
• Proactively identify and resolve performance issues.
• Perform SQL query analysis, troubleshooting and query tuning.
• Ensure timely resolution of incidents and operational issues.
• Support continuous improvement of database operations and performance.

APPLICATION & RELEASE SUPPORT

• Work closely with application development teams to provide database expertise throughout the development lifecycle.
• Assist developers with query optimization, database design and performance-related challenges.
• Support application deployments and database changes.
• Actively participate in scheduled release weekends (approximately 8 per year), ensuring smooth deployments and providing technical support when required.

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER & TRANSITION

• Take over existing DBA responsibilities and operational knowledge from the current team.
• Maintain and improve technical documentation, operational procedures and troubleshooting guides.
• Collaborate closely with the new DBA colleagues in Portugal, who will join in January 2027.
• Organize and deliver structured knowledge transfer sessions, including practical training and hands-on support.
• Gradually transition operational responsibilities to the Portuguese team.
• Ensure that the Portuguese team can independently manage and support the SQL platform by the end of the assignment.

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Strong experience as a Microsoft SQL Server DBA in an Azure environment.
• Solid expertise in SQL performance tuning, query optimization and execution plan analysis.
• Experience with database monitoring, troubleshooting and operational support.
• Good understanding of database availability, maintenance, security and backup/recovery procedures.
• Experience supporting application development teams and production deployments.
• Familiarity with IT operational processes, including incident, change and release management.

PERSONAL SKILLS

• A genuine team player with strong collaboration and communication skills.
• Proactive, hands-on and solution-oriented.
• Able to work independently and take ownership of operational responsibilities.
• Strong documentation skills and a structured approach to knowledge sharing.
• Patient and supportive when coaching colleagues and transferring knowledge.
• Comfortable working with geographically distributed teams.
• Good command of English.

EXPECTED OUTCOME

By the end of the assignment, the consultant will have:

• Ensured uninterrupted and reliable SQL database operations throughout the transition.
• Maintained platform performance, stability and operational support.
• Delivered complete and up-to-date technical and operational documentation.
• Successfully transferred operational knowledge, procedures and responsibilities to the Portuguese team.
• Enabled the Portuguese team to independently manage daily operations, troubleshoot issues and support application deployments.