SQL Server Developer

We are seeking a Senior SQL Database Developer to support the modernization of an enterprise tolling transaction platform undergoing a microservices rewrite. Operating within an Agile/Scrum environment, this contract role focuses on developing, optimizing, and modernizing database components within a high-availability SQL Server platform hosted on Azure Virtual Machines (IaaS).

You will collaborate with solution architects, .NET Core developers, cloud engineers, and testers to build high-performance data structures, streamline ETL pipelines, and ensure total compliance with PCI security standards.

Location & Work Arrangement

• City, State: Mechanicsville, VA
• Work Arrangement: Hybrid (Onsite 1 day per week; local candidates only).
• Interview Mode: Web Cam or In-Person.
• Shift: EST.

Key Responsibilities

Database Development & Performance Tuning

• Write and optimize complex T-SQL queries, stored procedures, functions, and views to support new platform capabilities.
• Perform advanced performance tuning, indexing strategies, and execution plan optimization for high-transaction workloads.
• Modernize legacy database schemas and code to support a modular, microservices-based application architecture.

High Availability & Cloud Integration

• Maintain high-availability database environments using SQL Server Always On Availability Groups in Azure IaaS environments.
• Build, maintain, and migrate ETL logic and data pipelines using SSIS and Databricks.
• Collaborate with .NET Core/C# developers to refine data access patterns, APIs, and cross-system integrations.

DevOps, Security & Compliance

• Deploy database updates and schema changes through Azure DevOps and GitHub CI/CD pipelines.
• Implement data retention policies and enforce strict PCI compliance and security standards.
• Participate actively in Agile ceremonies, sprint estimations, and code reviews.

Required Skills & Experience

Skill Category	Requirement	Years of Exp.
Total IT Exp.	Overall experience in enterprise IT environments.	10+ Years
SQL Server	Enterprise database design and development.	7+ Years
T-SQL & Tuning	Advanced query tuning, indexing, and execution optimization.	5+ Years
Azure IaaS	SQL Server deployment/management on Azure VMs.	5+ Years
High Availability	Supporting Always On Availability Groups.	5+ Years
DevOps Pipelines	Database deployment via Azure DevOps or GitHub CI/CD.	5+ Years
Application Integration	Collaborating with .NET Core / C# dev teams.	5+ Years

Preferred Qualifications

• ETL & Data Engineering: Experience building ETL solutions with SSIS and Databricks (5+ years).
• Architecture: Familiarity with Domain-Driven Design (DDD) and microservices (5+ years).
• Compliance & Security: Practical knowledge of PCI compliance and database encryption.
• Infrastructure as Code: Experience with Terraform for database infrastructure provisioning (3+ years).