Operational Database Administrator Jobs in Chicago, IL

The Database Administrator will be responsible for managing all aspects of database administration, including design, installation, configuration, upgrades, capacity planning, performance tuning, backup and recovery, and patch management to ensure reliable, secure, and high-performing systems. This role requires the ability to work across multiple database management platforms such as Oracle, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, and MySQL, supporting diverse environments and business needs. The ideal candidate will also bring extensive experience with cloud-based database solutions and have a strong track record of successfully migrating applications and data from legacy systems to modern cloud infrastructures while maintaining data integrity and minimizing downtime.

This position is based at our Corporate Headquarters in Wood Dale, IL, with a planned relocation to the Merchandise Mart (Chicago) in early 2027.

What you will be responsible for: 

• Fully support, configure, maintain, and upgrade database environments on-premise and in the cloud
• Manage all database efforts including day-to-day workloads and large, high-impact projects
• Monitor and support Oracle WebLogic Middleware
• Develop and maintain standards and procedures for the DBA team and automate routine tasks 
• Lead migration efforts of legacy on-prem databases to SaaS or IaaS options
• Responsible for application deployments, configurations, certificate management, analyzing error logs, tuning, and http server troubleshooting
• Performs database modifications as required to support system enhancements, implementations, maintenance, and data recovery
• Monitors database integrity in a proactive manner with respect to hardware corruption, software malfunctions, and user error
• Supports the AAR development staff in the areas of database design as it relates to reliability, resource utilization, practical operations, database environment, bug fixes, and interaction with vendor support
• Database backup and recovery 
• Disaster recovery planning and testing
• Provide analysis for system updates
• Monitor environment performance 
• Resolve problems reported by end users and remote admins
• Research and make recommendations on environment administration

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  A Database Administrator should have advanced knowledge of administration of but not limited to Oracle and PostgreSQL for performing maintenance of the databases and upgrading the system, including patches, service packs, security configurations, hot fixes and disaster recovery. They must be capable of acquiring more knowledge by continuing education or through other avenues. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

What you need to be successful in this role:

• Strong interpersonal skills; the ability to work well with people from many disciplines and with varying degrees of business and technical experience
• Strong, recent database administration technical skills, knowledge and background
• Excellent knowledge of best practices around management, control, and monitoring of database infrastructure
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to describe complex, highly technical issues using simple, clear, and precise language
• Great at organizing, prioritizing, and multitasking
• Strong troubleshooting skills
• Technical writing skills are required for database management documentation and procedures
• Bachelor's degree in related field or 5 years' work experience in database administration and other related database technologies 
• Travel to other AAR locations when needed.

Additional Positives for the Position:

• Holding credentials that demonstrates ability to perform a specific level of tasks related to database administration
• Able to review and make decisions regarding the software and hardware required to meet the organization's needs. 
• Training users in the proper use of company computer technology. 
• Troubleshoot database operation errors and slowness
• Experience working with RHEL and Windows environments
• 
  The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary: 
   
• Competitive salary and bonus package
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off program
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Physical Demands/Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
    While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about the facility.
    The environmental characteristic for this position is an office setting.
    Candidates should be able to adapt to a traditional business environment.
AAR provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.

Compensation:
The anticipated salary range for this position is $110,000 to $130,000 annually. This range reflects the base salary for candidates who meet the requirements of the role, including experience, education, and location. [In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for a 10% bonus.] AAR offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/dental/vision/life/and AD&D insurance, 401(k) savings plan with employer match, paid time off and holiday pay, as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.

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