Lead SQL Developer

About the Role: Senior Lead Database Engineer – SQL Server in Bengaluru/Coimbatore

We are actively seeking a highly skilled Senior Lead Database Engineer with extensive expertise in Microsoft SQL Server, primarily focusing on hybrid environments that integrate on-premises and cloud infrastructure. This pivotal role demands a strong combination of database development, administration, performance engineering, and automated deployment capabilities. A critical aspect of this position involves deep data discovery and migration from legacy systems.

The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical skills, a profound data-centric mindset, and a proven ability to navigate and understand complex, often undocumented, legacy databases. You will be instrumental in mapping data flows, identifying dependencies, and pinpointing critical gaps to facilitate successful system modernization and migration initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• SQL Server Engineering: Design, develop, and maintain robust SQL Server databases, prioritizing performance, scalability, and reliability. Develop and optimize T-SQL objects including stored procedures, functions, views, and indexes. Lead the establishment of database design standards for both OLTP and reporting workloads. Maintain a balance between hands-on development and administration to ensure operational stability and engineering excellence.
• Hybrid Administration & Performance: Oversee SQL Server administration across on-premises and cloud/hybrid environments. Guarantee high availability, implement robust backup/restore strategies, manage disaster recovery plans, and enforce stringent security best practices. Proactively identify and resolve performance bottlenecks using tools like execution plans, Query Store, DMVs, and wait stats. Establish comprehensive capacity planning and performance baselines.
• Automated Deployments & Database CI/CD: Implement database-as-code principles using SQL Server Database Projects (SSDT / .sqlproj). Build and maintain automated database deployment pipelines across various environments. Manage schema versioning, ensure environment consistency, and facilitate controlled releases. Collaborate closely with DevOps teams to integrate database deployments seamlessly with application CI/CD processes.
• Legacy Data Exploration & Migration: Conduct in-depth analysis and profiling of legacy SQL Server instances and upstream data sources. Document data flows, inter-system dependencies, and data lineage. Identify data quality issues, inconsistencies, redundancies, and gaps. Design and execute comprehensive data migration strategies, including thorough validation and reconciliation. Translate data insights into actionable recommendations for modernization and migration planning.
• Leadership & Collaboration: Serve as the technical lead for all database engineering initiatives. Mentor junior engineers and champion the enforcement of database best practices across the team. Collaborate effectively with application development, analytics, and business teams to uncover hidden data risks and opportunities. Drive informed architectural decisions through rigorous data analysis.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience with Microsoft SQL Server.
• Strong command of T-SQL development and performance tuning techniques.
• Demonstrated experience with SQL Server Database Projects and automated deployment methodologies.
• Extensive experience in legacy system analysis and data migration projects.
• Solid understanding of SQL Server internals and hybrid architectural patterns.
• Proven ability to independently explore complex data environments and deliver clear, actionable insights.