SQL Server DBA Upgrade Specialist (2016 to 2017)
Overview
You will own the upgrade of SQL Server 2016 databases to the latest supported version, ensuring minimal downtime and full data integrity. Working onsite in Chicago, you will partner with the infrastructure and application teams to plan, execute, and validate each migration. This is a short-term contract role focused on delivering a seamless upgrade with robust rollback readiness and performance validation.
What You'll Do6
- 1Lead the upgrade of SQL Server 2016 instances to the latest supported version, executing migrations within maintenance windows.
- 2Develop detailed upgrade and rollback plans, including risk assessment and contingency steps, for each database instance.
- 3Perform pre-upgrade health checks on databases, jobs, backups, and security configurations to identify potential blockers.
- 4Execute post-upgrade validation: verify database integrity, compatibility levels, and application connectivity.
- 5Troubleshoot performance issues post-migration using DMVs, Query Store, and Execution Plans; tune and optimize as needed.
- 6Support SSIS and SSISDB upgrades, ensuring existing packages run without regression.
Requirements6
- 15+ years as a SQL Server DBA with hands-on SQL Server 2016 experience.
- 2Proven experience upgrading SQL Server versions, including 2016 to later releases.
- 3Strong T-SQL skills for complex queries and performance tuning.
- 4Expertise in SSIS and SSISDB package migration and troubleshooting.
- 5Familiarity with backup, restore, and high-availability options like Always On and log shipping.
- 6Ability to create and execute rollback plans and handle emergency recovery scenarios.
Salary Insight
Salary not disclosed in listing
Location
Required Skills
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