Database Engineer

Title: Database Engineer Job Type: Contract Contract Length: 6 months Pay Range: $70-75/hr Start Date: ASAP Location: Onsite in Foster City, CA (5 days in office) About The Opportunity Our client, a leader in autonomous vehicle technology, is looking for a skilled Database Engineer to join their team for a 6-month engagement. This project involves designing, building, and operating scalable, secure data stores that power their applications and analytics. You will partner closely with application and data teams to shape schemas, tune performance, and automate operations using AWS and infrastructure-as-code to improve reliability and accelerate delivery from development through production. This is a high-impact role that requires a self-motivated professional who can hit the ground running. Note: While this is a 40-hour work week role, flexibility in working hours (e.g., before or after typical business hours) is required. Key Responsibilities & Deliverables This role is focused on the successful completion of specific tasks and deliverables. Your responsibilities will include: • Designing and developing efficient, scalable database solutions aligned to business requirements. • Installing, configuring, and upgrading database software and related tooling. • Monitoring performance and optimizing queries, indexes, and schemas for reliability and speed. • Implementing and maintaining database security controls to protect sensitive data. • Collaborating with application developers to optimize schema designs and SQL. • Managing and supporting AWS database infrastructure (e.g., RDS/Aurora/Redshift) and performing capacity planning. • Troubleshooting incidents and providing timely resolution across environments. Required Skills & Experience: We are looking for someone with a proven track record of successful contract engagements. The ideal candidate will have: • Proven experience as a Database Engineer or DBA. • Strong understanding of AWS and Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) for database resources. • Deep knowledge of DBMSs (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server, Redshift). • Proficiency in SQL, query optimization, and solid grasp of data modeling and schema design principles. • Hands-on experience with performance tuning, monitoring, backup/restore procedures, and disaster recovery. • Knowledge of database security best practices. • Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. W2 only (No C2C or 1099 contractors)