You will join a large, mature IT organization that has already gone through a major transformation, moving away from legacy mainframe systems toward a modern, Microsoft-based data platform. That journey is not finished.
The next phase is about industrializing, modernizing, and scaling a SQL Server–centric data backbone that supports both operational and analytical workloads. This includes cloud adoption with Azure SQL, preparing for a large SQL Server version upgrade, and introducing new technologies such as MongoDB, all while keeping mission-critical OLTP systems stable, secure, and performant.
You will become part of the Database Administration & Engineering team, a group that combines deep system expertise, strong developer-oriented DBA skills, and operational support. This role sits at the heart of that ecosystem. This is not a classic “hands-only” DBA role. You act as a technical reference and leader, helping shape the direction of the database platform while staying close enough to the technology to make informed decisions.
What you’ll do
- You take ownership of the technical vision for SQL Server–based platforms and help translate that vision into concrete designs, standards, and governance frameworks.
- You act as a senior technical guide for other DBAs, mentoring them on architecture, performance, security, and operational excellence.
- You serve as the final escalation point for complex incidents and performance problems, supporting the team when deep diagnostics or difficult decisions are required.
- You contribute to the design and evolution of database capabilities such as HA/DR, backup strategies, refresh and data scrambling, and performance governance.
- You actively support the industrialization of Azure SQL Database and SQL Managed Instance, and help introduce and position MongoDB within the broader data landscape.
- You participate in strategic transformation initiatives, including the design of a large-scale migration from SQL Server 2019 to SQL Server 2025, covering hundreds to thousands of databases.
- You collaborate closely with domain architects to translate architectural intent into detailed, executable technical designs.
- You help define standards, KPIs, and tooling that make database operations predictable, measurable, and supportable.
- You ensure solutions are aligned with security, infrastructure, and architectural standards, and that they can be smoothly handed over to L1/L2 operations with proper documentation.
What are we looking for?
- You have 7–10+ years of hands-on experience with SQL Server in critical OLTP environments, covering both administration and engineering aspects.
- You are comfortable working at both system level (Windows, Active Directory, performance tuning, security, HA/DR) and application level (T-SQL, data models, query and application performance).
- You have strong experience with Azure SQL DB and SQL Managed Instance, and understand the operational and governance challenges of running databases at scale in the cloud.
- You think like an architect and are used to designing solutions, writing high-level and low-level designs, and contributing to shared governance frameworks.
- You are naturally seen as a technical reference, with experience leading by influence rather than hierarchy.
- You communicate clearly, simplify complex topics, and can defend technical decisions while building consensus.
- You are fluent in technical English and can work comfortably in a multilingual environment.
- You are fluent in Dutch or French (at least one is mandatory).
- You hold a Master’s degree or equivalent experience.
Nice to have
- You have already participated in large-scale SQL Server migration projects.
- You are comfortable with automation using PowerShell and DevOps practices.
- You have experience with tooling such as SSIS, SQL Sentry, Redgate, AppDynamics, or data modeling tools.
- You hold certifications in SQL Server, Azure, architecture, or IT service management.
What do we offer?
- Location: Brussels (on-site)
- Start date: 2026
- Duration: 12 months (extension possible)
- Contract: Freelance or Permanent
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