Senior SQL Server Database Developer / DBA

The Senior SQL Server Database Developer / DBA will design, develop, troubleshoot, and optimize complex database solutions while helping ensure the performance, reliability, and integrity of production databases.

This role combines database development and database administration responsibilities with a strong emphasis on testing discipline, attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication. The position works closely with Java application developers to support Java-based applications and ensure effective interaction between application code and SQL Server. A strong understanding of application-to-database integration is important to supporting application performance, reliability, and ongoing development.

SCHEDULE -This is a full-time, exempt position. The employee is expected to be available during the department’s standard business hours and work the time necessary to effectively perform the responsibilities of the position.

LOCATION - This position is Hybrid. Candidate must be able to regularly commute to our New Bedford, MA location. 

DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, maintain, and troubleshoot complex T-SQL queries, stored procedures, views, functions, and triggers.
• Design efficient solutions involving complex joins, CTEs, temporary tables, window functions, aggregations, and other advanced SQL techniques.
• Develop complex reports and reporting queries involving large volumes of data and detailed business requirements.
• Perform large-scale data updates, corrections, conversions, and cleanup operations safely and efficiently.
• Thoroughly test and validate database code and data-modification scripts before production execution, including verifying affected records, row counts, totals, and business rules.
• Use appropriate safeguards such as transactions, rollback strategies, backups, staging tables, and validation queries for significant production changes.
• Troubleshoot and optimize database performance using execution plans, indexing, statistics, and other SQL Server performance-tuning techniques.
• Support DBA responsibilities including database maintenance, backups/restores, security, monitoring, recovery, and SQL Server Agent jobs.
• Work closely with Java application developers to troubleshoot application/database issues, understand data-access patterns, and develop efficient database solutions. Familiarity with JDBC, connection pooling, transactions, ORM frameworks, and application/database performance issues is a strong plus.
• Participate in code reviews, technical design discussions, and development of database standards and best practices.
• Clearly communicate database designs, issues, risks, and recommendations to both technical and non-technical team members.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Experience with Java/JDBC and Java database frameworks, SSIS, SSRS, Power BI, SQL Server Always On, Azure SQL, ETL/data integration, source control, CI/CD, and data warehousing is desirable.
• Treats data accuracy and production safety as critical responsibilities, carefully analyzing, testing, validating, and verifying significant database changes rather than assuming code is correct because it executes successfully.

 EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Significant experience (5 years) as a SQL Server Database Developer and/or DBA.
• Expert-level T-SQL skills and extensive experience with stored procedures, views, functions, triggers, and complex reporting.
• Strong understanding of relational database design, transactions, locking/blocking, indexing, execution plans, and performance optimization.
• Experience working with large databases and safely performing high-volume production data modifications.
• Strong SQL Server administration, backup/recovery, security, and maintenance knowledge.
• Exceptional analytical, troubleshooting, testing, and validation skills.
• Strong communication skills and demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with application developers.
• Ability to independently analyze complex problems while recognizing when additional review or approval is appropriate.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Exposure to moderate noise level.
• Office environment 

VISION REQUIREMENT

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

• Closed-toe footwear is required when entering the Production Floor (as needed).

OUR BENEFITS

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (eligible after 30 days)
• 401(k) Plan with Company Match
• Company-Paid and Voluntary Insurance Options at Discounted Rates
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Sick Time
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Product Discounts

Ahead, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a socially responsible company. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Ahead, LLC participates in E-Verify, We verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment in the United States.

Completion of a post-offer background check is required for all positions. A satisfactory driving record is required for positions in which driving is an essential job function.