Database Engineer

Database Engineer (PostgreSQL) – Remote Location: Remote (Team is based Schaumburg, IL) Duration: 1 Year Contract + Long Term extensions (potential for perm conversion) Start: ASAP Pay Rate: $40-45/hour (max) Overview Optum is seeking a Database Engineer with strong PostgreSQL expertise to support a large-scale data initiative focused on implementing and expanding the Curo platform across the organization. This role is ideal for a hands-on data professional who enjoys working directly with data—analyzing, correcting, transforming, and optimizing data assets to support business and technical objectives. The ideal candidate is a clear and concise communicator with 2–3+ years of database engineering experience and a strong foundation in SQL, data modeling, and performance tuning within cloud-based environments. Key Responsibilities • Design, develop, and maintain database solutions and data pipelines using PostgreSQL and SQL. • Analyze, cleanse, transform, and remediate data issues to ensure accuracy and integrity. • Optimize database performance through query tuning, indexing strategies, schema improvements, and performance analysis. • Collaborate with engineering, analytics, and platform teams to deliver scalable data solutions. • Ensure adherence to data quality, governance, validation, and reconciliation standards. • Troubleshoot production issues, implement fixes, and drive continuous improvements in database processes and automation. Required Qualifications • 2–3+ years of experience with PostgreSQL database development and performance tuning. • Strong SQL development and data modeling experience (2–3+ years). • Experience working with cloud platforms, preferably Azure (1+ year). • Ability to analyze, manipulate, and resolve complex data issues. • Familiarity with modern AI-assisted development tools and workflows. • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently. • Excellent, succinct communication skills. Preferred Qualifications • Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments. • Knowledge of data validation, reconciliation, lineage, and governance practices. • Experience with partitioning strategies, indexing patterns, and query execution plan analysis. • Exposure to high-volume or high-throughput PostgreSQL environments. • Experience with Azure-based data solutions. • Understanding of data observability, monitoring, and operational support. • Experience with Snowflake. • Experience with Python for automation, data processing, or analytics. Technical Environment • PostgreSQL • SQL • Azure • AI-assisted development tools • Snowflake (preferred) • Python (preferred) What We're Looking For A motivated Database Engineer who enjoys working directly with data and has a strong understanding of PostgreSQL performance optimization. The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of collaborating across teams while independently owning data-related initiatives in a fast-paced enterprise environment.