Database Administrator

Database Administrator (DBA) Position Overview The Database Administrator (DBA) provides enterprise-level data platform administration, engineering, and governance for NCEH/ATSDR systems and applications supporting PHIAT. This role is responsible for the design, operation, security, optimization, and modernization of database environments, data pipelines, and analytics platforms supporting both managed and non-managed IT assets across NCEH/ATSDR programs. The DBA plays a critical role in ensuring data availability, integrity, security, and performance across cloud and on‑premise environments while maintaining compliance with CDC, HHS, OMB, and federal IT security and lifecycle requirements. Core Responsibilities Database Administration & Operations • Design, implement, administer, and maintain enterprise database environments supporting NCEH/ATSDR applications and analytics platforms. • Manage database environments across Development, QA, UAT, Staging, and Production. • Ensure high availability, reliability, performance optimization, and scalability of databases and supporting infrastructure. • Execute database backup, recovery, archival, and disaster recovery strategies in alignment with federal continuity requirements. • Maintain and update database baseline documentation, configurations, and inventories. Data Management & Engineering • Design, create, modify, and maintain relational and analytical databases, schemas, and objects. • Develop and maintain data pipelines for ingestion, transformation, validation, and delivery of data across enterprise systems. • Support ETL/ELT workflows using cloud and enterprise data integration tools. • Maintain Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs), data dictionaries, and metadata artifacts. • Support data migration, consolidation, and modernization initiatives across legacy and cloud‑based platforms. Enterprise Platforms & Analytics • Administer and support data solutions leveraging: • Microsoft Dataverse • Azure SQL / SQL Server • Databricks • CDC consolidated SQL Server environments • Enterprise Data Analytics and Visualization (EDAV) platforms • Support analytics and reporting solutions using Power BI, SQL‑based reporting tools, and enterprise visualization platforms. • Collaborate with application developers, data scientists, and BI teams to optimize data structures for analytics, reporting, and advanced modeling. Security, Privacy, & Compliance • Implement database security controls in compliance with FISMA, NIST, CDC, and HHS requirements. • Support system security authorization activities, including documentation, audits, and evidence generation related to data storage and processing. • Enforce role‑based access control (RBAC), encryption at rest and in transit, and secure credential management. • Support vulnerability remediation, audit readiness, and continuous monitoring activities related to data platforms. • Ensure proper handling of PII, sensitive data, and controlled unclassified information (CUI). Lifecycle & Governance Support • Support Enterprise Performance Life Cycle (EPLC) activities related to data assets, including design reviews, documentation, and stage‑gate readiness. • Provide technical input for IT governance, asset reviews, modernization planning, and data consolidation efforts. • Support governance boards and data calls by providing accurate data inventories, reports, and technical analyses. • Identify opportunities to improve data quality, reduce redundancy, and automate manual data processes. Operations & Maintenance (O&M) and Modernization • Provide ongoing O&M support for production data systems, including issue resolution, performance tuning, and change implementation. • Support Development, Modernization, and Enhancement (DME) initiatives, including new data solutions and system enhancements. • Monitor system health, capacity, and performance metrics; implement proactive improvements. • Support decommissioning and data archival activities in accordance with federal records management requirements. Required Technical Skills • Database Technologies • SQL Server / Azure SQL • Relational and analytical database design • Data Platforms & Tools • Microsoft Dataverse • Databricks • Azure Data Factory or equivalent ETL tools • SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) • Cloud & Enterprise Environments • Azure (preferred); AWS familiarity a plus • Hybrid and cloud‑native data architectures • Data Engineering • Data pipelines, ETL/ELT processes • Data migration and integration strategies • Security & Compliance • FISMA, NIST 800‑53, CDC/HHS IT security standards • Encryption, RBAC, audit logging Minimum Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Engineering, or a related technical field • Minimum of 2-3 years of progressive experience as a Database Administrator, Data Engineer, or equivalent role supporting enterprise data environments • Experience supporting federal government IT systems or highly regulated environments preferred Professional Competencies • Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a solution‑oriented mindset • Ability to translate technical data concepts into actionable insights for non‑technical stakeholders • Experience working in multi‑stakeholder, matrixed environments • Excellent technical documentation and written communication skills • Ability to operate independently while coordinating closely with program managers, developers, and security teams Preferred Certifications (Optional) • Microsoft Azure Data Engineer or Database certifications • Cloud platform certifications (Azure or AWS) • Security or compliance certifications (e.g., Security+, CISSP – not required)