What you'll do We are seeking an experienced MS SQL Database Administrator (DBA) contractor to support the management, maintenance, and optimization of Microsoft SQL Server environments. This role includes operational support and incident management, ensuring database performance, availability, security, and reliability in a production environment. The day-to-day

• Administer, monitor, and maintain Microsoft SQL Server databases
• Provide day-to-day operational support, including on-call participation as required
• Manage and resolve database-related incidents, service requests, and escalations in a timely manner
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventative actions
• Install, upgrade, patch, and configure SQL Server instances
• Implement and manage backup, recovery, and disaster recovery processes
• Troubleshoot performance issues and optimize queries, indexes, and database design
• Monitor system health and proactively address risks and bottlenecks
• Ensure database security, including user access, roles, and permissions
• Support high availability solutions (e.g., Always On, clustering, replication)
• Collaborate with application and infrastructure teams during deployments and incidents
• Maintain documentation for configurations, procedures, and support processes

What you'll need

• 3-5 years of hands-on experience with Microsoft SQL Server
• Strong experience in production support and incident management environments
• Proficiency in T-SQL, query tuning, and performance optimization
• Experience with backup and restore, maintenance plans, and automation
• Knowledge of SQL Server security standards
• Experience supporting high availability and disaster recovery solutions
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Part of an On-Call rotation

What will help you on the job

• Experience with cloud platforms (Azure SQL, AWS RDS)
• Familiarity with monitoring and alerting tools
• Scripting/automation experience (PowerShell or equivalent)
• Experience working in ITIL-based support environments

Salary range $90,500.00 - $143,000.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $112,500.00- $168,500.00/ annually At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.