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Principal Dba Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SA Technologies Inc.

SQL DBA

Martinez, CA

$58.25 - $72.75/hr

Principal Responsibilities: Support of Microsoft 2003/2008/2012 server Support of SQL Server 2008 ... as a SQL Server DBA using associated toolsets such as SQL Admin Studio, MVC, BI, SSRS, etc.

AVUM INC

Database Administrator

Malibu, CA · On-site

$125K - $170K/yr

... dental and vision (Principal), 401(k), PTO, education reimbursement, and certification ... AWS database certifications * Experience with MarkLogic or NoSQL databases * Scripting skills ...

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Principal Dba information

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$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal dba jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal dba in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal Dba vs Database Architect?

AspectPrincipal DbaDatabase Architect
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field, with certifications like Oracle Certified Professional or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator AssociateUsually holds a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or information systems, with certifications such as TOGAF or specific database architecture certifications
Work EnvironmentFocuses on managing, maintaining, and optimizing existing databases within organizationsDesigns and plans new database systems and architectures for future needs
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in large enterprises, financial institutions, and tech companiesFound in organizations developing new systems or migrating to cloud solutions

The Principal Dba primarily manages and maintains existing databases, ensuring performance and security, while the Database Architect focuses on designing and planning new database systems. Both roles require strong technical skills and certifications, but their core responsibilities differ significantly in scope and focus.

How does a Principal DBA typically collaborate with development and infrastructure teams to ensure database performance and reliability?

A Principal DBA often works closely with both development and infrastructure teams to design, implement, and maintain robust database solutions. They advise developers on optimal schema design, query optimization, and best practices for efficient data access, while also coordinating with infrastructure teams on database deployment, backup strategies, and high availability configurations. Regular cross-team meetings and proactive communication help identify potential bottlenecks and ensure database environments meet organizational requirements for security, scalability, and uptime. This collaborative approach is key to maintaining high performance and reliability in production systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal DBA, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal DBA, you need deep expertise in database architecture, performance tuning, and advanced SQL, typically supported by a degree in computer science and significant DBA experience. Familiarity with enterprise database platforms like Oracle, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL, as well as certifications such as Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate, is highly valued. Exceptional problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you manage complex projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills are essential for ensuring data integrity, system reliability, and effective database strategy in large-scale environments.

What is a Principal DBA?

A Principal DBA (Database Administrator) is a senior-level professional responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of an organization’s databases. They often lead database strategy, mentor junior DBAs, and ensure the performance, integrity, and availability of data. Principal DBAs also collaborate with architects and developers to optimize database solutions, manage high-level troubleshooting, and enforce best practices for data management. Their role is critical in organizations that depend heavily on complex or large-scale database systems.
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What job categories do people searching Principal Dba jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Dba jobs are:
Principal Dba jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Dba job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 73% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.
SQL DBA

SQL DBA

SA Technologies Inc.

Martinez, CA

$58.25 - $72.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company Description

All SA Technologies requirements are Direct Client Requirements from IT Hiring Managers. We guarantee you the best rate for your skills and performance.

Job Description

Principal Responsibilities: 

Support of Microsoft 2003/2008/2012 server

Support of SQL Server 2008//2008 R2/2012

Support of Data Warehouses and Lakes, BOE, and related systems

Setup, configuration, troubleshooting, performance tuning, recovery, and ongoing maintenance of CCHS databases, servers, and related systems. 

Database disaster recovery planning, procedures, configuration, documentation, testing, and integration.

Administration of Clarity and the ETL process

Collaborate with report writers on assuring necessary data reporting is available in the Clarity Console.

Secure databases, applications, and related assets.

System application troubleshooting and support

Provide training and mentoring of staff.

5+ years as a SQL Server DBA using associated toolsets such as SQL Admin Studio, MVC, BI, SSRS, etc. 

Implements data models, database designs, data access, and code.

Develop, test, analyze, and maintain software applications in support of business requirements. Day to day duties will include data modeling, schema design, ETL architecture, development, documentation, optimization, and collaboration with different teams. 

Develop, implement, administer, and maintain policies and procedures ensuring the security and integrity of Contra Costa Health databases.

Resolve database performance and capacity issues, including replication and other distributed data issues. 

Understanding of server architecture in relation to the database.

Configuration and maintenance of databases and its disaster recovery design; including recovery and documentation.   

Strong analytical and problem solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot under pressure

Preferred Qualifications: 

Epic Clarity certification

Cogito experience

Military experience a plus. County awards preference for military veterans.

This is a 3-6 month contract to hire. Please submit your best Word resume along with best hourly rate and full time salary.


Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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