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Principal Database Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MKS2 Technologies

Database Engineer - Cleared

Aurora, CO · On-site

$175K - $180K/yr

... Principal Database Administrator to support high-priority infrastructure and software systems. This role focuses on database performance, reliability, and architecture within a dynamic environment ...

MKS2 Technologies

Database Engineer - Cleared

Aurora, CO

$175K - $180K/yr

... Principal Database Administrator to support high-priority infrastructure and software systems. This role focuses on database performance, reliability, and architecture within a dynamic environment ...

Envision Innovative Solutions

$130 - $180/hr

Lead development of database structures that fit into the overall architecture of the system under development * Lead development of databases, database parser software, and database loading software

Ford

Principal Cloud Database Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

We are seeking a Principal Cloud Database Engineer (GCP & AI) to drive architecture, engineering, and innovation across enterprise-scale database platforms. This role will lead modernization efforts ...

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All JobsPrincipal Database Architect Jobs

Principal Database Architect information

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$107K

$166.5K

$217K

How much do principal database architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal database architect in the United States is $166,502.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,500.00 and $192,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal database architect?

A Principal Database Architect is a senior-level professional responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex database systems within an organization. They set the technical vision for database architecture, ensure data integrity and security, and guide teams in best practices for database development and maintenance. Principal Database Architects collaborate closely with other IT professionals and stakeholders to align database solutions with business needs, optimize performance, and plan for future scalability. They often mentor junior staff and lead large-scale infrastructure projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal database architect?

To thrive as a Principal Database Architect, you need expert knowledge in database design, data modeling, and performance optimization, typically supported by a degree in computer science and extensive experience with database technologies. Mastery of systems such as Oracle, SQL Server, PostgreSQL, and cloud database platforms, along with certifications like AWS Certified Database – Specialty or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate, is often required. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for architecting scalable, secure, and efficient database solutions that support organizational goals.

What is the difference between Principal Database Architect vs Database Administrator?

AspectPrincipal Database ArchitectDatabase Administrator
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Science, certifications like Oracle Certified Professional, SQL Server certificationsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, certifications like Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA)
Work EnvironmentDesigning database systems, developing architecture, collaborating with development teamsMaintaining, monitoring, and troubleshooting existing databases
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large enterprises, tech companies, financial institutionsCommon across organizations of all sizes, especially in IT departments
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding strategic design roles, high-level architectureOperational management, database performance, and security

The Principal Database Architect focuses on designing and planning database systems at a strategic level, while the Database Administrator handles daily database operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are some of the biggest challenges principal database architects face when designing scalable systems for large organizations?

Principal Database Architects often encounter challenges such as balancing system performance with reliability, managing complex data integrations from multiple sources, and ensuring database security at scale. Additionally, they must design architectures that can handle rapid growth in both data volume and user activity while minimizing downtime. Collaborating with cross-functional teams—including developers, DevOps, and business analysts—is essential to align data infrastructure with organizational goals and implement best practices for future scalability.
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Principal Database Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Database Architect job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $166,502 per year, or $80 per hour.

Database Engineer - Cleared

MKS2 Technologies

Aurora, CO • On-site

$175K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

MKS2 Technologies, LLC, an award-winning high growth small business, creates innovative and customer-centric technology solutions in the areas of Cyber Security, Instructional Design and Training, Software Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security and well-being of our clients. Our commitment to excellence and our "Mission First" orientation has resulted in steady growth and an expanding client base across government agencies. We have employees nationwide and for the past three consecutive years were named one of the fastest growing Veteran-owned companies in the nation. Please take a moment to browse through our website and learn more about what it means to serve with MKS2.
Role: Principal Database Administrator
Location: Aurora, CO (Buckley AFB - Onsite)
Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Poly
Overview
We are seeking a Principal Database Administrator to support high-priority infrastructure and software systems. This role focuses on database performance, reliability, and architecture within a dynamic environment that includes both routine maintenance and urgent troubleshooting.
What You Will Do
  • Administer databases across clustered and containerized environments
  • Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot database systems
  • Perform administrative support for PostgreSQL databases
  • Plan and execute database upgrades, patches, and installations
  • Support database architecture design and refinement
  • Respond to database-related issues and work requests
  • Collaborate with system engineers and integration teams
  • Maintain and update database schemas and design documentation
  • Support both routine operations and urgent system issues

Qualifications You Must Have
  • Experience with database administration in enterprise environments
  • TS/SCI w/ Poly
  • Strong experience with PostgreSQL
  • Experience supporting Linux-based systems (Ubuntu preferred)
  • Experience with database installation, upgrades, and patching
  • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve database performance issues
  • Experience working in clustered or containerized environments
  • Strong documentation and system design experience

Qualifications We Prefer
  • Experience supporting high-availability or mission-critical systems
  • Experience working in secure or government environments
  • Experience collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams
  • Familiarity with database architecture optimization and performance tuning

Salary: $175,000-$180,000
+
Benefits, PTO, Holiday, Immediate 401k match and More!
Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: MKS2 Technologies is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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