Database Administrator – Short-Term Project

Position Overview

Modular IT is seeking an experienced Database Administrator (DBA) for a short-term project supporting an existing Microsoft SQL Server Express environment.

The primary objective of this engagement is to assess the current database configuration, implement a reliable automated backup solution, verify that backups are completing successfully, and confirm that the database can be restored if needed.

This is a focused project rather than an ongoing database administration position. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience supporting SQL Server Express and be comfortable developing or maintaining PowerShell scripts for database administration and automation.

Key Responsibilities

• Review the existing Microsoft SQL Server Express environment and database configuration.
• Assess the current database backup process and identify any gaps or reliability concerns.
• Configure automated database backups appropriate for SQL Server Express.
• Configure backup scheduling using Windows Task Scheduler, PowerShell, SQL scripts, or other appropriate methods.
• Establish appropriate full and, where applicable, differential backup procedures.
• Configure backup retention and file-management procedures.
• Verify that scheduled backup jobs execute successfully and consistently.
• Perform test restores to validate backup integrity and recoverability.
• Review database and backup locations to help protect against loss of the production system.
• Implement appropriate logging and error reporting for the backup process.
• Document the final backup configuration, schedule, retention settings, restore procedure, and any scripts created or modified.
• Provide Modular IT with a brief handoff explaining how to monitor and maintain the backup solution.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience administering Microsoft SQL Server.
• Hands-on experience with SQL Server Express.
• Experience configuring and troubleshooting SQL Server database backups and restores.
• Understanding of full and differential SQL Server backups and recovery procedures.
• Experience with Windows Server or Windows-based database environments.
• Ability to independently assess an existing database environment and implement an appropriate solution.
• Strong troubleshooting and technical documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong PowerShell scripting experience.
• Experience using Windows Task Scheduler for database or systems automation.
• Experience with sqlcmd, T-SQL backup scripts, or similar SQL Server automation methods.
• Experience implementing backup logging, monitoring, and failure notifications.
• Experience supporting databases used by retail, point-of-sale, or line-of-business applications.

Project Deliverables

• A functioning automated SQL Server Express backup solution.
• Verified successful execution of scheduled backups.
• At least one documented test restore demonstrating that the backup can be successfully recovered.
• Backup retention and storage configuration.
• Copies of all PowerShell, SQL, batch, or other automation scripts used.
• Documentation covering backup schedules, backup locations, monitoring, troubleshooting, and database restoration.
• Recommendations for any additional database or backup improvements identified during the assessment.

Engagement Scope

This is expected to be a short-duration, project-based engagement focused primarily on database backup, recovery, and automation. Additional database administration work may be considered if issues are identified during the initial assessment.