Database Reliability Engineer

SUMMARY: BakerHostetler is seeking a Database Reliability Engineer to support and enhance the firm’s data ecosystem across hybrid on-premises and cloud environments. This role serves as a technical owner for mission-critical database systems and supports projects to improve availability, observability, performance, security, and disaster recovery readiness while partnering closely with Enterprise Applications, Application Development, IT, and PMO teams.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Database Reliability and Operations

• Ensure maximum availability and reliability of mission-critical database systems across hybrid infrastructure
• Administer, configure, and optimize SQL Server 2016+ Always On availability groups, clustering, and replication topologies; continuously improve database observability
• Manage Windows patching and SQL Server cumulative updates
• Lead major database upgrade initiatives and modernization efforts, support engineers and teams in their use of database systems
• Continuously enhance observability using telemetry, performance analysis, and proactive monitoring with enterprise tools (e.g., Spotlight)
• Enhance processes through automation, including operational workflows using PowerShell
• Ensure data is protected and secure by applying SQL Server security best practices
• Lead technical response during high-severity incidents, troubleshoot complex database issues, and conduct root cause analysis; tune SQL performance as needed
• Collaborate cross-functionally to design scalable, resilient database architectures and contribute to best practices for database engineering and reliability

• Partner closely with members of Enterprise Applications, Application Development, IT, and PMO teams to deliver stable, scalable, and secure data services
• Apply a strong understanding of Azure storage infrastructure (Data Lake, Blob, File, Disks) and its impact on HA/DR, availability zones, and paired regions, support Azure SQL Database and Azure SQL Managed Instance

 

TECHNICAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Database Platforms: 5+ years of SQL Server administration experience; SQL Server 2016+; high availability technologies (Always On Availability Groups, clustering, replication)

• Cloud and Hybrid Data Environments: Deep understanding of both cloud and on-prem data environments; Azure SQL Database and Azure SQL Managed Instance
• Monitoring, Observability, and Backups: Hands-on experience with enterprise SQL monitoring and backup platforms; proactive monitoring and performance analysis (e.g., Spotlight); enterprise-grade backups scheduled and on demand
• Automation and Tooling: Automate operational workflows using PowerShell; manage Azure-based VMs and develop pipelines using Azure Data Factory
• Analytics and BI Platforms: Support and optimize Power BI Service and Power BI Server; administer SSRS, SSIS, and SSAS; develop and modify SSRS reports and SSIS packages
• Security and Resilience: Ensure database security, backup integrity, and disaster recovery readiness; familiarity with common data storage technologies and use cases

 

PREFERRED SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Continuous learning mindset and passion for emerging technologies
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and cross-team collaboration skills
• Experience with enterprise high availability, disaster recovery, and operational excellence practices for database platforms
• Broad stack of open-source technologies such as Postgres, Kubernetes, pgvector, DuckDB, or Docker

 

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of related conflicts experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.

 

COLLABORATION AND COMMUNICATION

• Build and maintain effective relationships with clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders, including attorneys and support teams

• Lead discussions, influence decisions, and build consensus across technical and non-technical teams
• Follow established project management methodologies
• Accurately track and report time spent on project work
• Manage multiple priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Perform essential duties under time constraints, interruptions, and pressure