DBA Microsoft SQL Server Expert – Brussels (Long-Term Mission)
A major Belgian enterprise with a large and complex IT landscape is strengthening its Database Administration & Engineering capability and is looking for a senior Microsoft SQL Server expert to play a key technical and strategic role.
This is not a pure operational DBA position. The role combines technical leadership, architecture, governance, and hands-on expertise across on-premise and cloud environments.
DBA Microsoft SQL Server Expert - Role & Responsibilities
As DBA Microsoft SQL Server Expert, you will:
* Act as a senior technical reference for SQL Server platforms in critical OLTP environments
* Guide and mentor System DBAs and Developer DBAs
* Serve as Tier-3 escalation point for complex incidents and performance investigations
* Contribute to the design, evolution, and governance of database platforms (on-prem and cloud)
* Support large-scale migration initiatives, including SQL Server 2019 to SQL Server 2025
* Participate in the industrialization of cloud database services (Azure SQL DB, Managed Instance)
* Define standards, KPIs, and governance frameworks in collaboration with architects and infrastructure teams
* Ensure alignment with security, infrastructure, and operational requirements
DBA Microsoft SQL Server Expert - Required Experience & Skills
Mandatory:
* 7–10+ years of experience as a SQL Server DBA (administration and engineering)
* Proven expertise in mission-critical OLTP environments
* Strong background in performance tuning, troubleshooting, and optimization
* Solid knowledge of Windows Server and Active Directory
* Strong T-SQL and application performance understanding
* Experience with Azure SQL DB and SQL Managed Instance
* Ability to act as a technical lead or senior reference within a team
Nice to have:
* Experience with large-scale SQL Server migration programs
* Scripting and automation skills (PowerShell, DevOps)
* Exposure to NoSQL technologies (MongoDB)
* Experience with monitoring and DBA tooling (Redgate, SQL Sentry, AppDynamics)
* Relevant certifications (Azure, SQL Server, Architecture, ITIL)
Languages & Location
* English as working language
* Fluent in either French or Dutch
* Brussels-based role with hybrid setup
Contract Details
* Start date: 2026
* Duration: 12 months, with possible extension
* Long-term transformation context
DBA Microsoft SQL Server Expert - Why This Opportunity
* Strategic and high-impact role in a large enterprise environment
* Influence on technical vision, governance, and standards
* Combination of architecture, leadership, and hands-on expertise
* Long-term mission rather than short-term operational support