SQL Server Administrator at Exception Ltd, Glasgow, £Contract Rate

We are seeking an experienced SQL Server High Availability Specialist to implement a mission critical SQL Server Always On Availability Group solution across multiple physical sites. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in SQL Server Enterprise Edition, Windows Failover Clustering, and automation through PowerShell Scripting. This role requires a strategic approach to database high availability design, exceptional troubleshooting abilities, and strong documentation skills.

Key Responsibilities

Design, implement, and maintain SQL Server Always On Availability Groups across multiple sites

Configure Windows Server Failover Clustering in a virtualised environment

Develop PowerShell automation scripts for SQL Server deployment and configuration

Implement cross-site replication with appropriate latency and bandwidth considerations

Configure and test application connectivity using JDBC/ODBC connection strings

Perform comprehensive failover testing and validation

Create technical documentation including architecture diagrams, operational procedures, and disaster recovery runbooks

Coordinate with virtualisation, networking, and application teams during implementation

Troubleshoot complex SQL Server high availability issues

Develop monitoring solutions for SQL Server availability groups

Conduct knowledge transfer sessions with operations teams

Perform regular health checks and maintenance on the high availability infrastructure

Required Qualifications

5+ years of hands-on SQL Server administration experience

3+ years of experience implementing and managing SQL Server high availability solutions

Advanced knowledge of SQL Server Enterprise Edition features, particularly Always On Availability Groups

Strong experience with Windows Server Failover Clustering

Proficient in PowerShell Scripting for SQL Server automation

Experience with multi-site database replication technologies

Thorough understanding of networking concepts as they relate to database connectivity