Job Description
Database Migration Architect– Azure Managed Databases (MSSQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL)
Summary
This role is ideal for a database expert passionate about cloud transformation and modernization, with the ability to bridge the gap between data platforms and application ecosystems while driving enterprise-scale Azure migrations.
Overview
We are looking for an experienced Database Migration Architect with strong expertise in migrating on-premises databases (MSSQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL) to Azure managed database services. The ideal candidate will lead end-to-end database modernization andre-platforming initiatives from VMware-based environments to Azure, while working closely with application teams across Java, Python, .NET, React, andNode.js ecosystems.
This role requires deep database knowledge, cloud architecture expertise, and a strong understanding ofhow databases integrate with modern distributed applications.
Key Responsibilities
1. Database Migration &Modernization
- Lead migration of on-prem databases (SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL) to Azure:
- Azure SQL Database / Managed Instance
- Azure Database for PostgreSQL
- Define migration strategies: lift-and-shift, re-platform, refactor.
- Use tools such as Azure Database Migration Service (DMS), Azure Migrate, and native replication tools.
- Ensure data integrity, minimal downtime, and performance stability during migration.
2. Re-Platforming from VMware to Azure
- Design and execute database migration from VMware-hosted environments to Azure managed services.
- Assess existing infrastructure and recommend optimal Azure database platforms.
- Eliminate legacy dependencies and modernize database deployments.
3. Database Architecture& Design
- Design scalable, highly available, and resilient database architectures in Azure.
- Implement HA/DR strategies(geo-replication, failover groups, backups).
- Optimize schema design, indexing, partitioning, and query performance.
4. Application Integration Understanding
- Collaborate with application teams using:
- Python (Django, Flask, FastAPI)
- React (frontend integration awareness)
- Ensure seamless database integration with microservices and APIs.
- Optimize database interactions for application performance.
5. Performance Optimization& Tuning
- Analyze and optimize query performance and execution plans.
- Conduct workload assessments and capacity planning.
- Implement monitoring and tuning using Azure tools.
6. Security & Compliance
- Implement database security best practices:
- Role-based access control(RBAC)
- Data masking and auditing
- Ensure compliance with enterprise and regulatory standards.
7. DevOps & Automation
- Automate database deployments using CI/CD pipelines.
- Implement Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, ARM, Bicep).
- Enable automated backups, patching, and scaling.
8. Monitoring &Operations
- Set up monitoring using Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, Application Insights.
- Define SLAs, SLOs, and alerting mechanisms.
- Support production environments and troubleshoot issues.
9. Stakeholder Collaboration
- Work with architects, developers, and business stakeholders.
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship.
- Translate business requirements into database solutions.
Required Skills &Experience
Core Database Expertise
- Strong hands-on experience with:
- Microsoft SQL Server (on-prem & Azure)
- Experience in database migration and modernization projects.
- Deep understanding of data modelling, indexing, and query optimization.
Azure Expertise
• Experience with:
- Azure SQL Database & Managed Instance
- Azure Database for MySQL/PostgreSQL
- Azure Database Migration Service (DMS)
- Knowledge of Azure networking (VNet, Private Endpoints).
Migration &Re-Platforming
- Proven experience migrating databases from VMware/on-prem to Azure.
- Experience in handling large-scale and mission-critical databases.
Application Awareness
- Understanding of application stacks:
- Ability to optimize database usage patterns for applications.
DevOps & Automation
- Experience with CI/CD tools(Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions).
- Scripting (PowerShell, Bash, Python).
Preferred Qualifications
- Azure certifications (e.g., Azure Database Administrator Associate, Azure Solutions Architect Expert).
- Experience with data migration strategies for zero/near-zero downtime.
- Knowledge of data warehousing and analytics (Synapse, Data Factory).
- Familiarity with NoSQL databases (Cosmos DB, MongoDB).
Soft Skills
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement.
- Ability to work in cross-functional and distributed teams.
Education
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
Experience Level
- 8–12+ years of experience in database engineering/architecture.
- 4+ years in cloud database migration roles.
Key Competencies
- Database Migration Strategy
- Performance Tuning &Optimization
- Cloud Re-Platforming(VMware to Azure)
- Application-Database Integration