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Lead Database Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sidley

Lead Database Administrator

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Lead Database Administrator is a senior member of the database team responsible for the advanced operational support, performance optimization, and architectural maintenance of the firm ...

PeopleNTech

Oracle DBA

Draper, UT · On-site

$47.50 - $64.50/hr

Reporting directly to the Lead Oracle Database Administrator, this role executes within established architectural standards and database strategies, with responsibility for keeping production systems ...

TECO

Database Administrator Consultant

Lutz, FL · On-site

Lead Database Administrator Entry-level Database Administrator (DBA) position that supports a limited number of databases with frequent supervision. PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Perform ...

Clarivate Analytics US LLC

Lead DBA/Developer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$53.50 - $66.75/hr

We are seeking an experiencedLead DBA/Developer to join a small, highly technical team of database ... Lead PostgreSQL development efforts, including SQL coding, query optimization, and data conversion ...

OneAZ Credit Union

Database Administrator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

The DBA will lead database architecture, performance tuning, disaster recovery planning, automation initiatives, data integration services, and operational support activities while partnering closely ...

OneAZ Credit Union

Database Administrator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

The DBA will lead database architecture, performance tuning, disaster recovery planning, automation initiatives, data integration services, and operational support activities while partnering closely ...

Clarivate Analytics

Lead DBA/Developer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$53.50 - $67/hr

We are seeking an experiencedLead DBA/Developer to join a small, highly technical team of database ... Lead PostgreSQL development efforts, including SQL coding, query optimization, and data conversion ...

Clarivate

Lead DBA/Developer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$53.50 - $67/hr

We are seeking an experiencedLead DBA/Developer to join a small, highly technical team of database ... Lead PostgreSQL development efforts, including SQL coding, query optimization, and data conversion ...

Cox Communications, Inc.

Sr Database Engineer

Draper, UT · On-site

$101K - $169K/yr

Reporting to the Lead Database Administrator, this role executes within established architectural standards, independently resolving the full spectrum of operational database issues while escalating ...

Mindlance

Database Administrator

Englewood, CO · On-site

Englewood Cliffs, NJ DURATION:- 12+ Months Local candidate only on W2. • The lead DBA role requires hands-on production database administration skills, deep technical expertise MySQL including ...

Mindlance

Database Administrator

Englewood, NJ · On-site

Responsibilities : • The lead DBA role requires hands-on production database administration skills, deep technical expertise MySQL including various third party versions like Percona Server. • ...

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How much do lead database administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead database administrator in the United States is $46.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead database administrator?

A Lead Database Administrator (Lead DBA) is a senior IT professional responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of an organization's databases. They lead a team of database administrators, ensure high availability and performance, and often develop policies and best practices for database management. Lead DBAs also coordinate database upgrades, troubleshoot complex issues, and collaborate with other departments to support business needs. Their role is crucial in safeguarding data integrity and optimizing database efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead database administrator?

To thrive as a Lead Database Administrator, you need expertise in database design, optimization, backup and recovery, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Proficiency with major database management systems like Oracle, SQL Server, or MySQL, along with certifications such as Oracle Certified Professional or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate, is crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help in managing teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure the integrity, performance, and security of critical data assets while supporting business continuity and growth.

How does a lead database administrator typically collaborate with development and IT teams on large-scale projects?

As a Lead Database Administrator, you will frequently work alongside software developers, system administrators, and IT project managers to ensure that database systems are optimized, secure, and reliably support application requirements. This collaboration often involves participating in project planning meetings, reviewing database design decisions, and advising on best practices for performance and scalability. You may also coordinate database deployment schedules, oversee data migrations, and troubleshoot complex issues that span multiple technical teams. Effective communication and the ability to translate technical database concepts to non-specialist stakeholders are key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Lead Database Administrator vs Database Administrator?

AspectLead Database AdministratorDatabase Administrator
CertificationsOften requires advanced certifications like Oracle Certified Professional or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator AssociateTypically requires basic certifications such as Oracle Certified Associate or Microsoft Certified: SQL Server Database Certification
Work EnvironmentLeads team, manages projects, and oversees database systemsMaintains and supports database systems under supervision
ResponsibilitiesDesigns, plans, and coordinates database activities; mentors team membersPerforms routine database maintenance, backups, and performance tuning

The main difference between a Lead Database Administrator and a Database Administrator lies in leadership and scope. The Lead Database Administrator typically manages teams, oversees projects, and handles complex database architecture, while the Database Administrator focuses on day-to-day maintenance and support tasks. Both roles require similar certifications, but the lead position demands more experience and leadership skills.

Is a Lead Database Administrator still in demand?

A Lead Database Administrator remains in demand due to ongoing reliance on data management and database systems across industries. They are expected to have skills in SQL, database design, and experience with tools like Oracle or SQL Server, with demand driven by data-driven decision-making and cybersecurity considerations.
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Lead Database Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Database Administrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,996 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Lead Database Administrator

Chicago, IL • On-site

Sidley Austin LLP
Law Firms • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Sidley Austin LLPexternal

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

The Lead Database Administrator is a senior member of the database team responsible for the advanced operational support, performance optimization, and architectural maintenance of the firm's database environments, including the legacy hub-and-spoke data distribution framework. This role independently resolves complex, high-impact issues, mentors other database administrators, and serves as a key technical escalation point for the team. The Lead Database Administrator also helps guide the team's transition toward cloud-native and modern data platforms (Azure, Databricks) as those initiatives mature.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the primary technical escalation point for complex SQL Server performance, replication, availability, and database infrastructure issues, including support of the firm's hub-and-spoke data distribution framework.
  • Design, maintain, and enhance the firm's hub-and-spoke data distribution architecture, including staging tables, MERGE-based sync procedures, intermediary databases, and related SQL Server ETL/data integration solutions
  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to Database Administrators through guidance on query tuning, performance optimization, ETL design, troubleshooting, and best practices.
  • Lead root cause analysis for recurring database issues, recommend long-term improvements, and participate in database capacity planning and infrastructure roadmap initiatives.
  • Develop, implement, and support enterprise reporting, data integration, and automation solutions using SSRS, SSIS, Visual Studio, PowerShell, and related SQL Server technologies.
  • Monitor, optimize, and maintain database performance, availability, backup and recovery, security, and disaster recovery technologies, including replication, log shipping, failover clustering, and SQL Server Availability Groups.
  • Perform SQL Server administration, including patching, cumulative updates, version upgrades, documentation, and support for Azure-based SQL Server environments.
  • Evaluate and support modernization initiatives by piloting Azure-native and Databricks-based solutions, including database migrations across on-premises and cloud environments in partnership with database leadership.
  • Participate in a rotating 24x7 on-call schedule and provide off-hours support as required to ensure the availability and reliability of critical database systems.

Education and/or Experience:
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field, or equivalent experience
  • A minimum of 6 years of experience administering Microsoft SQL Server (2016-2022) in enterprise environments, including at least 3 years in a senior or lead technical capacity
  • Expert-level SQL Server performance tuning and troubleshooting experience, including execution plans, indexing strategies, and root-cause analysis of recurring or systemic issues
  • Demonstrated experience designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting large-scale ETL and data distribution architectures (e.g., hub-and-spoke, staging/MERGE-based sync patterns, or equivalent)
  • Strong hands-on experience with, SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS), SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS), Visual Studio for SSIS/SSRS development, SQL Server replication technologies, and SQL Server Availability Groups, including setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting
  • Experience with SQL Server monitoring tools (e.g., SQL Sentry or equivalent)
  • Experience performing and overseeing SQL Server patching, cumulative updates, and upgrades, including change management governance
  • Advanced proficiency in PowerShell scripting for SQL Server administration and automation
  • Demonstrated experience mentoring or providing technical guidance to junior or mid-level database administrators
  • Experience with Power BI for reporting and analytics (preferred for enterprise reporting modernization)
  • Strong knowledge of Windows Server
  • Strong knowledge of physical and VMware-based SQL Server configurations
  • Azure SQL Server administration experience, including hybrid on-prem/Azure environments

Preferred:
  • Experience modernizing legacy SSRS reporting to Power BI
  • Experience automating SQL Server administration using PowerShell and CI/CD practices
  • Experience supporting large-scale, mission-critical SQL Server environments in regulated enterprises
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor and influence the technical work of others without direct management authority
  • Exposure to Azure-native data platforms (Azure SQL Managed Instance, Azure Synapse, or similar) or Databricks
  • Experience leading or contributing to architecture/modernization roadmap discussions

Other Skills and Abilities:
The following will also be required of the successful candidate:
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Good judgment
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others
  • Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
  • Able to work under pressure
  • Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

#LI-KG2
#LI-Hybrid
The target salary range for this role is:
$123,000 - $169,000 if located in Illinois.
Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities above satisfactorily and meet the requirements. The requirements listed above are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email sidleytalentacquisition@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources).
Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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