Lead Database Engineer

Job Title: Lead Database Engineer Job Location: Remote Job Type: Contract Job Overview We are seeking a Database Engineer with deep expertise in SQL Server and Microsoft Azure to join our product engineering team. This role is well suited for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, Al-enhanced SDLC and is passionate about building scalable, secure, and high-performance data platforms. Key Responsibilities · Design, implement, and optimize SQL Server databases with a focus on high availability, scalability, and performance · Lead and support Azure migration initiatives for legacy databases and data services · Develop and maintain cloud-native data solutions using: • Azure SQL (including Hyperscale) • Azure Data Factory • Azure Cosmos DB • Other relevant Azure data services · Operate within an Al-driven SDLC, including: o Partnering with Al copilots to translate business requirements into data models and technical specifications o Leveraging generative Al tools to iterate on database architecture and performance strategies o Pair-programming with Al assistants (e.g., GitHub Copilot) to write, refactor, and validate SQL in real time o Implementing automation for validation, performance monitoring, bug prediction, and self-healing data pipelines o Collaborate closely with application engineers to ensure seamless integration between data systems and product features o Monitor, troubleshoot, and remediate database performance, security, and compliance issues Required Qualifications 6+ years of database engineering experience with a strong focus on SQL Server Deep expertise in: • Database design and normalization (3rd Normal Form) • Indexing strategies • Query optimization • Stored procedure development and tuning · Strong experience with database modeling and data architecture · 3 to 5 years of NoSQL experience, including Azure Cosmos DB · Solid understanding of SQL Server internals, including Azure SQL Database Hyperscale · Proven experience reviewing execution plans and optimizing high-volume queries and stored procedures · Hands-on experience monitoring database performance from both system and database perspectives. · Experience using SQL Server Trace and performance diagnostics tools · Demonstrated experience with: • Azure SQL • Azure Data Factory • Cloud-native and distributed data architectures · Familiarity with Al-assisted development tools such as GitHub Copilot or similar · Experience with distributed databases, ELT pipelines, and data streaming technologies is a strong plus