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Ms Sql Server Database Administrator Jobs in Iowa

SQL Developer DBA5

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$44.25 - $60.50/hr

... SQL Server database). - please read through the skills section and entire description for more detail. Duties include: NOTE: THIS IS NOT A DBA POSITION WHERE THE RESOURCE IS DOING MAINTENANCE ...

SQL Developer DBA5

Des Moines, IA

$44.25 - $60.50/hr

... SQL Server database). - please read through the skills section and entire description for more detail. Duties include: NOTE: THIS IS NOT A DBA POSITION WHERE THE RESOURCE IS DOING MAINTENANCE ...

DBA Admin (Physical SQL) (XIN001_JS3Z)

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$47.25 - $59/hr

Database Administration skills in MS SQL & mySQL Design, implement and troubleshoot SQL in large, multi server (high-volume and high-availability) environment Experience in Operating Systems (Windows ...

Familiarity with RDBMS principles, database design and normalization * Previous experience with SSIS and SSRS is preferred * Demonstrates initiative and works independently with minimal supervision

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49 - $66.25/hr

Databases: DB2, VSAM * Transaction Processing: CICS * Version Control & Change Management: Endevor * Tools/Software: ServiceNow, Eclipse, DB Visualizer, MS SQL Server

Software Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Ability to interact with MS SQL Server database, T-SQL, stored procedures. * Experience in n-tier web-based architecture / service-oriented architecture and design is a plus. * Familiarity developing ...

SQL Server * Database design and data modeling * Query optimization and performance tuning * Stored procedures and data integration * Experience designing enterprise-level architectures and ...

.Net Developer

Clive, IA

$47.25 - $62.50/hr

Strong database engineering skills on the MS SQL server platform * Experience implementing an order management system (OMS); Charles River Development (CRD) preferred * Expertise with the CRD Middle ...

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Ms Sql Server Database Administrator information

See Iowa salary details

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How much do ms sql server database administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for ms sql server database administrator in Iowa is $50.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.14 and $56.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an MS SQL Server Database Administrator?

MS SQL Server Database Administrators (DBAs) are IT professionals responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and securing Microsoft SQL Server databases. They ensure databases are available, perform regular backups, optimize performance, and manage user access and security. DBAs also troubleshoot issues, apply updates, and design disaster recovery strategies to protect data. Their role is crucial in maintaining the reliability and efficiency of an organization's database systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an MS SQL Server Database Administrator?

To thrive as an MS SQL Server Database Administrator, you need expertise in database design, performance tuning, backup and recovery, and strong knowledge of T-SQL, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate. Familiarity with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS), and monitoring tools is usually required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you manage incidents and collaborate with other IT professionals. These skills are crucial for maintaining data integrity, optimizing system performance, and ensuring business continuity.

What are some common challenges faced by MS SQL Server Database Administrators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

MS SQL Server Database Administrators often face challenges such as managing database performance, ensuring high availability, and handling data security. Performance tuning requires constant monitoring and proactive optimization of queries and indexes, while minimizing downtime involves implementing robust backup and recovery strategies. Security can be addressed by regularly updating permissions, applying patches, and adhering to best practices for data protection. Collaborating closely with developers and system administrators is essential to address these challenges effectively and maintain a stable, secure environment.

What is the difference between Ms Sql Server Database Administrator vs Database Developer?

AspectMs Sql Server Database AdministratorDatabase Developer
Primary RoleMaintains, secures, and optimizes SQL Server databasesDesigns, develops, and implements database solutions
Skills & CertificationsSQL Server certifications, database management, troubleshootingSQL programming, database design, application development
Work EnvironmentDatabase administration teams, IT departmentsDevelopment teams, software projects
Common TasksBackup, recovery, performance tuningWriting queries, schema design, data modeling

The Ms Sql Server Database Administrator focuses on maintaining and securing SQL Server databases, ensuring optimal performance and data integrity. In contrast, a Database Developer primarily designs and develops database solutions to support applications. While both roles require SQL expertise, their responsibilities and daily tasks differ significantly, making each essential for different stages of database management and development.

What are popular job titles related to Ms Sql Server Database Administrator jobs in Iowa?

For Ms Sql Server Database Administrator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ms Sql Server Database Administrator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Ms Sql Server Database Administrator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Ms Sql Server Database Administrator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Ms Sql Server Database Administrator job openings:

Infographic showing various Ms Sql Server Database Administrator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, and 37% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,945 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

$48.75 - $61/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Cognizant rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

Job Description - Database Engineer (SQL Server DBA)
Location - Des Moines, IA / Hybrid / Onsite
Database Administration & Operations
  • Manage and support SQL Server databases across Development, Test, UAT, and Production environments.
  • Perform database code, schema, and object migrations in compliance with established change management procedures.
  • Execute daily operational health checks, backup verification, job monitoring, database consistency checks, and capacity reviews.
  • Install, configure, upgrade, patch, and maintain SQL Server instances while minimizing business disruption.
  • Manage database storage, growth, capacity planning, and lifecycle management activities.

Performance Management & Optimization
  • Monitor database and server performance, proactively identifying and resolving CPU, memory, I/O, storage, locking, blocking, and resource contention issues.
  • Perform advanced performance tuning using:
    • SQL Profiler
    • Query Store
    • Execution Plans
    • Dynamic Management Views (DMVs)
    • Extended Events
    • Performance Monitor (PerfMon)
  • Optimize SQL queries, stored procedures, indexes, database objects, and execution plans to improve application performance and reduce response times.
  • Establish performance baselines and implement proactive monitoring strategies.

Database Architecture & Engineering
  • Design, architect, and implement scalable, secure, and highly available SQL Server environments.
  • Collaborate with Infrastructure, Server, Storage, Network, and Application teams to develop robust database platforms.
  • Review database deployments and migration requests to ensure compliance with security, performance, scalability, and infrastructure standards.
  • Participate in enterprise database modernization and cloud transformation initiatives.

High Availability & Disaster Recovery
  • Implement and manage SQL Server HA/DR solutions, including:
    • Always On Availability Groups
    • Failover Clustering
    • Log Shipping
    • Replication
    • Disaster Recovery Planning
  • Develop, maintain, and test database backup, recovery, and business continuity procedures.
  • Conduct periodic restore testing and disaster recovery exercises.

Security & Compliance
  • Manage database security through user provisioning, role management, permissions, and access controls.
  • Ensure compliance with organizational security policies, audit requirements, and regulatory standards.
  • Conduct database security reviews and remediate vulnerabilities and risks.

Migration, Upgrades & Automation
  • Lead database migrations, refreshes, cloning activities, platform upgrades, cloud migrations, and consolidation initiatives.
  • Automate routine DBA tasks using:
    • PowerShell
    • T-SQL
    • SQL Server Agent Jobs
    • Automation Frameworks
  • Develop scripts, utilities, and monitoring solutions to improve operational efficiency and reliability.

Incident & Production Support
  • Provide 24x7 support for critical production databases and applications.
  • Troubleshoot database-related incidents and service disruptions.
  • Perform Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and implement preventive measures.
  • Work closely with application, infrastructure, and vendor teams to ensure SLA compliance and service availability.

Required Skills & Qualifications
Technical Skills
  • Strong administration experience with:
    • Microsoft SQL Server 2016/2019/2022
    • SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)
  • Expertise in:
    • T-SQL Development
    • Performance Tuning
    • Index Optimization
    • Query Optimization
    • Database Design
  • Hands-on experience with:
    • Always On Availability Groups
    • Clustering
    • Replication
    • Log Shipping
  • Experience with backup and recovery strategies and tools.
  • Strong understanding of database security, compliance, and auditing.
  • Experience with PowerShell scripting and automation.
  • Knowledge of Windows Server administration and infrastructure concepts.

Cloud & Modern Platform Exposure (Preferred)
  • Azure SQL Database
  • Azure Managed Instance
  • AWS RDS SQL Server
  • Cloud migration tools and methodologies

Soft Skills
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Strong documentation and process discipline.

Experience Range: 7-12+ Years
Role Type: Infrastructure Managed Services / Database Operations / Production Support / Database Engineering.
About Cognizant:
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization's unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.
Additional employment information
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] for roles based in the Americas or [email protected] for roles based in India.

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