What are the responsibilities and job description for the Database Engineer position at Expression?
Expression Networks is seeking an experienced Database Engineer to support the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) under the ISCOM Division. In this role, you will design, implement, secure, and optimize complex database solutions across both on-premises and cloud-based environments, with a strong emphasis on Microsoft Azure services. The Database Engineer will play a critical role in ensuring the performance, scalability, and reliability of mission-critical database systems that advance NTIA’s mission of secure and efficient communications.
This position requires a proactive problem-solver with strong technical skills, a passion for automation and optimization, and the ability to collaborate closely with development, DevOps, and infrastructure teams to deliver modern, secure data solutions.
Location and Clearance
- Washington, DC – Onsite
- Active Secret or Top Secret clearance required (U.S. Citizenship required)
- Minimal travel (<10%)
Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and manage highly available and scalable Azure database solutions, including Azure SQL Database, Azure Managed Instance, and Cosmos DB.
- Administer, maintain, and optimize both on-premises and cloud-based database environments to ensure peak performance, security, and reliability.
- Monitor database performance and proactively optimize queries, indexing, and storage configurations in Azure.
- Develop and implement robust backup, disaster recovery, and high-availability strategies to ensure business continuity.
- Enforce database security, auditing, and compliance practices in alignment with federal standards and organizational policies.
- Leverage Azure-native monitoring tools (e.g., Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, Application Insights) for proactive monitoring and performance tuning.
- Collaborate with development and DevOps teams to integrate database services into CI/CD pipelines and automate deployment strategies.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex database issues and performance bottlenecks.
- Develop and enforce standards, procedures, and best practices for database design, use, and maintenance.
- Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers when required.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum of 4 years of experience in database engineering, administration, or cloud data solutions.
- Expert-level experience with Azure database services including Azure SQL Database, Azure Managed Instance, and Cosmos DB.
- Proficiency in T-SQL, PowerShell, and Azure CLI for scripting, automation, and database administration.
- Strong understanding of PaaS and IaaS database offerings within Azure.
- Proven expertise in performance tuning, query optimization, and indexing strategies.
- Demonstrated experience implementing database security, auditing, encryption, and compliance controls in cloud environments.
- Hands-on experience with backup, restore, disaster recovery, and high-availability solutions.
- Experience collaborating with DevOps teams on automation and CI/CD workflows.
Preferred Experience
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate or similar certification.
- Prior experience supporting NTIA, Department of Commerce, or other federal civilian agencies.
- Familiarity with NoSQL database technologies in Azure (e.g., Cosmos DB, Table Storage).
- Experience implementing database security controls and compliance measures aligned with federal standards.
- Understanding of hybrid or multi-cloud database strategies.
Benefits
Expression Networks offers highly competitive salaries, performance-based incentives, and additional benefits, such as:
- 401k matching
- PPO and HDHP medical/dental/vision insurance
- Education reimbursement up to $10,000/yr
- Complimentary life insurance
- Generous rollover PTO and 11 days of holiday leave
- Onsite gym facility at our HQ office in Washington DC
- Commuter Benefits Plan
- In-office Cold Brew Coffee
About Expression
Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Washington, DC, Expression provides data fusion, data analytics, AI/ML, software engineering, information technology, and electromagnetic spectrum management solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, and national security community.
Our culture emphasizes creating immediate and sustainable value for our clients through agile delivery of tailored solutions and constant engagement. We were ranked #1 on the Washington Technology Fast 50 list of fastest-growing small business Government contractors and recognized as a Top 20 Big Data Solutions Provider by CIO Review.
At Expression, we ensure every team member has the tools and opportunities to grow while working with the newest technologies in the industry. We celebrate milestones, accomplishments, promotions, and collaborative achievements that make our workplace engaging and rewarding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Expression is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
