VP, Database Architecture and Engineering

TL;DR

VP, Database Architecture and Engineering (SQL Server/AWS): Defining and executing enterprise database platform strategy, leading modernization initiatives, and ensuring scalability, reliability, security, and performance in AWS-hosted environments with an accent on HA/DR architectures, automation, and cloud-native services. Focus on owning reference architectures, implementing IaC practices, optimizing observability, and driving FinOps for high-availability Tier-1 services.

Location: Remote, United States. Standard working hours 8am-5pm Central Time. Office friendly in downtown Chicago.

Salary: $180,000-$220,000

Company

hirify.global is a leading benefits administration company specializing in cloud-based technology and services to simplify employee benefits management for thousands of companies nationwide.

What you will do

• Define and execute database platform strategy aligned with business goals, driving modernization and cloud transitions.
• Own reference architectures for SQL Server, HA/DR setups, and best practices for performance, security, and cost efficiency in AWS.
• Implement automation, IaC, CI/CD for databases, observability, capacity planning, and FinOps.
• Lead security and compliance efforts including encryption, access controls, and regulatory standards like HIPAA and SOC.
• Build and mentor a high-performing team of database architects and engineers.
• Collaborate with Product Engineering leadership and executives as a trusted advisor on database strategy.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent
• Expert-level Microsoft SQL Server experience (performance tuning, indexing, partitioning, query optimization)
• Deep expertise with Always On AGs, clustering, replication, HA/DR architectures
• Strong AWS database services (RDS for SQL Server, Aurora, DynamoDB familiarity)
• Hands-on with IaC (Terraform, CloudFormation), PowerShell, observability tools (CloudWatch, SQL Profiler)
• Demonstrated leadership in large-scale modernization or cloud migrations, managing architecture/engineering teams

Nice to have

• Master’s degree in Computer Science or related field
• Experience with multi-cloud, NoSQL, caching, or event-driven architectures
• Background in regulated industries (healthcare, insurance, financial services)

Culture & Benefits

• Remote first, office friendly environment with no commute required.
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision plans; retirement savings with employer contributions.
• Competitive compensation with performance incentives; professional development opportunities.
• Supportive culture emphasizing collaboration, innovation, accountability, and work-life balance.
• Employee wellbeing programs for mental health, financial planning, and wellness.