afarax is looking for a freelance Solution Architect / SQL Server Expert. We need you!
Our client in the insurance sector, is seeking an experienced Solution Architect / SQL Server Expert to strengthen their team.
Responsibilities
Architecture & design:
- Define and implement end-to-end architecture for SQL Server platforms (On-Prem, Hybrid, Cloud).
- Design high-performance, scalable, and secure database architectures aligned with strategic IT directions.
- Architect HA/DR solutions (AlwaysOn, Failover Clustering, Backup strategies) supporting business continuity.
- Contribute to the unification of Operational & Analytical data flows and platforms.
- Develop and document architectural standards, operating procedures, scripts, and governance models.
Technical expertise & operational excellence:
- Act as the senior SQL Server expert for deep-dive troubleshooting, performance tuning, and optimization.
- Analyse performance insights (Query Store, Extended Events, SQL Sentry, Dmvs) and deliver impact assessments and improvement plans.
- Oversee SQL Server security (auditing, access models, AD integration).
- Support and optimize ETL and BI components: SSIS, SSRS, SSAS.
- Guide the transition toward Azure SQL components (Azure SQL Database, Managed Instance, Data Factory, Synapse Link — plus).
Transformation & Cloud enablement:
- Support SQL Server Operational Databases migration and operating model toward Cloud environments.
- Participate in architectural assessments and cloud readiness analyses.
- Recommend future-proof patterns leveraging Microsoft's evolving data ecosystem.
Collaboration & leadership:
- Collaborate closely with DBAs, system engineers, architects, and business stakeholders.
- Coordinate SQL Server deliverables across Run and transformation teams.
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and technical guidance to SQL Server specialists and junior engineers.
- Ensure transparent communication with team leads, management, and project leadership.
- Support change and production releases, including outside office hours when necessary.
Governance & delivery:
- Ensure all deliverables meet scope, timing, budget, and quality expectations.
- Maintain a structured, methodical, and documentation-driven approach.
- Act as a key contributor within multidisciplinary teams and transformation initiatives.
Is this you?
- Expert-level knowledge of SQL Server Database & System Administration.
- Strong expertise in performance tuning and troubleshooting (Query Store, Extended Events, SQL Sentry, Dmvs).
- Deep proficiency in:
- SQL Server Security & Auditing
- T-SQL
- SSIS, SSRS, SSAS
- PowerShell scripting
- Windows Server & Active Directory
- Experience with SQL Server 2019+ mandatory.
- Strong knowledge of high performance database design.
- Understanding of HA/DR methods for SQL Server.
- Experience with .NET/C#, WPF, Entity Framework is a plus.
- Knowledge of Cloud/NoSQL environments is a plus.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Collaborative team player with coaching abilities.
- Analytical, solution-oriented, detail-oriented.
- Structured, organized, and quality-driven.
- Comfortable with change and transformation environments.
- Ability to multitask and adapt in complex, multidisciplinary settings.
How afarax supports you?
- You benefit from our extensive network
- You will have access to projects that fit your expertise
- We help and support you throughout your project
- We offer the possibility to build a valuable and lasting partnership
