Senior Database Architect (SQL Server & PostgreSQL)

DATAdistanceREMOTECONTRACT Senior Database Architect (SQL Server & PostgreSQL) We are looking for a Senior Database Architect / Database Modernization Consultant to help one of our international clients modernize a production SQL Server estate that sits behind a legacy application. You will start with a deep review of the current database design, indexes, queries and operational practices — identifying performance issues, technical debt and risks, as well as the things that already work well — and turn that into a prioritised, pragmatic improvement plan. In parallel, you will assess the feasibility of migrating from SQL Server to PostgreSQL, covering compatibility issues, risks, expected effort and possible migration approaches. The engagement also includes designing and implementing robust database observability and performance monitoring, and takes place in an AI-native engineering environment that uses Specification-Driven Development (SDD) frameworks such as OpenSpec to structure requirements, implementation plans, validation and traceability. SQL ServerPostgreSQLT-SQLQuery OptimizationDatabase ObservabilityOpenSpec / SDD bolt Ready to apply? We typically respond within 24 hours. Apply nowarrow_forward Responsibilities check_circle Review the current SQL Server database design, indexes, queries and operational practices check_circle Identify performance issues, technical debt, risks and areas that are already working well check_circle Recommend and prioritise pragmatic improvements check_circle Assess the feasibility of migrating from SQL Server to PostgreSQL check_circle Identify compatibility issues, risks, expected effort and possible migration approaches check_circle Define and implement robust database observability and performance monitoring performance baselines, query-level diagnostics, wait statistics, blocking and deadlock detection, capacity trends, and actionable alerting check_circle Work in an AI-native engineering environment, using Specification-Driven Development (SDD) frameworks such as OpenSpec to structure requirements, implementation plans, validation and traceability shieldRequirements Strong SQL Server and PostgreSQL expertise Experience optimising indexes and query performance Experience modernising databases behind legacy applications Experience setting up database observability and performance monitoring A pragmatic approach that balances improvements with migration costs and risks Comfortable working with Specification-Driven Development (SDD) tooling such as OpenSpec What will be your next steps? 01chat_bubble Quick non-technical conversation Our initial conversation is a brief, non-technical discussion to understand your background and career aspirations. We're keen to learn about your communication style and how you approach teamwork and decision-making. 02code 60 to 90 minutes technical interview This in-depth technical assessment, lasting 60 to 90 minutes, is designed to evaluate your specific skills and expertise. We will present you with challenges relevant to our client’s requirements. 03groups Client interview In this stage, you will meet directly with the client for a final technical discussion. This interview will be similar in format to our internal technical assessment, allowing the client to see firsthand how your expertise aligns with their specific project needs and team. 04workspace_premium Offer Congratulations on successfully completing our evaluation process. We are pleased to extend an offer and recommend you to our clients. Apply for this role Fill in your details below. We'll get back to you shortly. 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