Company overview: Blue Orange Digital is a cloud-based data transformation and predictive analytics development firm with offices in NYC and Washington, DC. From startups to Fortune 500s, we help companies make sense of their business challenges by applying modern data analytics techniques, visualizations, and AI/ML. Founded by engineers, we love passionate technologists and data analysts. Our startup DNA means everyone on the team makes a direct contribution to the growth of the company. Note: This is a long-term contractor opportunity, structured as an independent contractor role, with potential to transition into a full-time position later. The client requires a contractor arrangement at this stage. We cannot consider candidates represented by third-party agencies unless applying directly. Position overview: Blue Orange is looking for an experienced and capable Database Administrator (DBA) to join our talented, multi-disciplinary team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for Microsoft SQL Server, T-SQL, and modern data technologies. They understand how to extract business requirements for data transformations, assess data quality, and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. In this role, you will work directly with our client to design, build, scale, and maintain production data validation systems and platforms. Responsibilities Provide in-depth, hands-on Microsoft SQL Server, T-SQL and DBA implementation services Analyze and resolve processing bottlenecks, including slow or long-running queries. Improve and evolve SQL logic (CTEs, window functions, normalization, triggers, etc.). Operate and optimize query and processing workflows. Work with the team and stakeholders to define data sources, accuracy metrics, and validation requirements. Build and maintain data ingestion pipelines, models, orchestration workflows, transformations, and validation tests. Extract and prepare data from source systems for analytics and testing. Collaborate with technical and business teams to evolve the data architecture. Deliver continuous value within an Agile environment. Required Qualifications SQL expertise, especially SQL 2017. Can resolve long-querying and blocking issues. 5+ years of relevant experience in database engineering roles. Expertise in database administration: security, file management, backup/restore processes, performance tuning, etc. Experience with Log-Shipping and Monitoring systems – Redgate a plus. 5+ years of experience in a DBA role, including work with ETL processes, data warehousing, data lakes/lakehouses, pipelines, modeling, and data quality validation. Expert-level experience with data ingestion, modeling, and compliance validation. Deep SQL expertise, with strong data validation and statistical analysis capabilities. Strong skills for writing, optimizing, and troubleshooting SQL queries, stored procedures, triggers, etc. Solid experience with database design, ETL processes, and data management. Advanced troubleshooting/debugging capabilities. Good judgment in distinguishing between bug fixes, configuration changes, and feature enhancements. Solid understanding of algorithms, data structures, and code complexity. Strong analytical, documentation, and communication skills. Ability to interact professionally and with sound judgment in a fast-paced environment. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Mathematics (with a computer science track). Self-motivated, takes-initiative professional acumen. Effective time-management and prioritization skills; able to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines. Familiarity with IT Service Management best practices; keeps tickets and tasks updated regularly. Fluent in English (spoken and written). Preferred Qualifications (Nice-to-Haves) Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, or Azure. Hands-on skills in Databricks. Experience in financial services - especially corporate loan processing, risk, and reporting. Strong engagement skills; sets expectations clearly and communicates updates consistently. Experience with tools/languages such as R, Python, Scala, SPSS, Teradata, SAS, Power BI, Tableau, and Looker is a plus. Salary: $140,448 - $160,512 per year ($11,704 to $13,376 per month) - USD Blue Orange Digital is an equal opportunity employer. Background checks may be required for certain positions/projects.