The Senior Database Architect will serve as a key technical leader supporting the USDA FSIS Public Health Information System (PHIS).
This role involves the architecture, development, enhancement, and migration of complex database systems in both cloud and non-cloud environments.
The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in relational databases, data modeling, and cloud integration, as well as experience guiding data strategy and optimization in large-scale enterprise systems.
Key responsibilities include designing, maintaining, enhancing, coding, and migrating relational databases, stored procedures, queries, and scheduled jobs in both on-premises and cloud environments.
The candidate will analyze data flow, storage requirements, reporting capabilities, and system integration needs.
They will develop robust data models and define acquisition, access, archival, recovery, and load strategies.
Coordination of new data development efforts to ensure compatibility and integration with existing data structures is required.
The role involves reviewing and analyzing business requests to identify optimal data sources and improve data feeds.
Efficient database structures that support production, maintenance, storage, and secure access will be designed and implemented.
The candidate will develop and test queries, screens, and data-driven applications.
Regular database and system upgrades and maintenance of associated hardware and software will be performed.
Technical guidance, mentorship, and training to users and junior staff will be provided.
Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies and assessing their impact on USDA systems is essential.
The candidate will analyze and document client requirements and data needs to inform technical designs and decision-making.
System documentation including data dictionaries, entity relationship diagrams (ERDs), and technical specifications will be created and maintained.
Participation in continuous improvement efforts, performance optimization initiatives, and special projects is expected.
The candidate will serve as a technical lead or task lead on projects, offering problem-solving expertise and decision-making support.
Requirements:
A minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in database architecture, development, and administration is required.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience is necessary.
Proficiency in relational database technologies such as SQL Server, Oracle, and PostgreSQL is essential.
Solid experience or strong familiarity with cloud platforms, including Microsoft Azure or Amazon AWS, is required.
A deep understanding of data modeling, entity-relationship design, normalization, and indexing strategies is necessary.
Experience with data migration, ETL processes, and managing complex data workflows is required.
The candidate must be skilled in writing and optimizing stored procedures, complex queries, and database scripts.
Knowledge of database backup, recovery, and high-availability strategies is essential.
A strong understanding of data governance, data integrity, and database security best practices is required.
The ability to create and maintain technical documentation and specifications is necessary.
Benefits:
The position offers a collaborative team setting with cross-functional engagement across technical and program leadership.
It is primarily remote, allowing for flexibility in work location, but U.S.-based candidates only are considered.
Occasional travel to USDA or FSIS locations may be required.
The role provides opportunities for professional growth and development through mentorship and training.