Database Administrator

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Database Administrator, Senior
Purdue University

Join Purdue University as a Senior Database Administrator—an integral role responsible for the creation, support, and administration of MySQL, Postgres, Oracle, and SQL Server databases across both UNIX and Windows platforms. While this position primarily focuses on MySQL, you'll collaborate with a dedicated team to set standards and drive excellence in database use, programming, and application administration.

Key Responsibilities

• MySQL Administration
• Install, configure, and upgrade MySQL databases.
• Manage security: roles, permissions, and access controls.
Monitor database performance and system health, proactively troubleshooting issues.

SQL Proficiency

• Optimize SQL queries for maximum performance and efficiency.
Interpret and utilize execution plans to refine resource usage.

Backup & Recovery

• Design and maintain automated backup strategies.
• Perform and validate Point-in-Time Recovery (PITR).
Ensure disaster recovery plans are up-to-date and thoroughly tested.

Performance Tuning

• Diagnose and resolve slow SQL queries.
• Optimize data structures using advanced indexing (B-tree, GIN, GiST, etc.).
• Linux/Unix System Administration
• Automate system tasks with shell scripting.
• Monitor system-level metrics and proactively identify bottlenecks.
Utilize systemd, crontab, and configure real-time alerts for key metrics (disk space, replication, query spikes).

Soft Skills

Problem-Solving: Debug complex technical issues effectively under pressure.

Communication: Articulate technical decisions and strategies clearly to peers and stakeholders.

Documentation: Write thorough runbooks, SOPs, and maintain change logs that enable team success.

Teamwork: Collaborate cross-functionally with developers, sysadmins, and data professionals.

Why Purdue?
At Purdue, experience a culture defined by unrivaled pride, unlimited potential, and a trusted community. Our employer value proposition ensures:

Community: Work among colleagues devoted to your growth and success.

Opportunity: Tackle innovative database challenges with global impact, empowered to learn and contribute.

Boilermaker Pride: Be part of a legacy dedicated to excellence and distinction.

Support: Enjoy professional development and an environment where every contribution matters.

Join us to make a lasting impact—supporting campus initiatives and technological advancement as part of a team that celebrates collaboration and innovation.

About Us

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Two (2) years experience
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Skills Needed:

Additional Information:

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Professional 2

• Pay Band S070
• Job Code #20002039

Career pathmaker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an EOE employer.