POSITION DESCRIPTION: As a Database Administrator, you'll ensure the stability, performance, and security of critical systems across multiple departments-including Finance, eDiscovery, Knowledge Management, and Legal Operations. You'll maintain and optimize SQL environments, manage server infrastructure, and support core platforms like document management, eDiscovery, and financial systems. This is a execution-focused role responsible for high availability, patching, monitoring, backup/recovery, and documentation. You'll serve as a technical SME, work closely with IT, Security, and Applications teams, and respond to system performance issues that may impact legal workflows. While litigation support is handled by another team, your availability and response during key moments is essential. You'll be part of a culture focused on Operational Excellence-balancing hands-on execution with mentorship and process improvement. We're looking for someone who can lead through documentation, deliver reliable infrastructure, and bring proactive recommendations that scale.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:- Administer SQL-based systems and perform performance tuning, query optimization, backup, recovery, and system integrity checks.
- Manage server installations, configurations, upgrades, patching, and documentation for Windows Server environments.
- Oversee daily system monitoring including logs, capacity checks, security validation, and hardware performance reviews.
- Lead the implementation and upgrade of core applications including document management and eDiscovery systems.
- Serve as SME for SQL environments and infrastructure, including virtual machines and storage area networks (SAN).
- Own process documentation and system diagrams; maintain operational runbooks and recovery procedures.
- Partner with IT operations, applications, and security teams to ensure system performance, reliability, and compliance with ISO 27001 and NIST 800-171.
- Troubleshoot and resolve system and application issues, working independently or with vendors as needed.
- Mentor team members, review technical documentation, and participate in peer reviews to share knowledge.
- Identify opportunities for automation, efficiency, and architectural improvements and implement solutions that scale.
KNOWLEDGE OR SKILLS REQUIRED:- SQL administration (e.g., tuning, high availability, query optimization)
- Strong Windows Server, VMware/Hyper-V, and storage systems experience
- System performance monitoring and security review familiarity
- Proven ability to document systems clearly (Visio, knowledge base, SOPs)
- Ability to lead and manage upgrade and implementation projects
- Excellent troubleshooting and technical communication skills
- Experience with backup systems, disaster recovery planning, and testing
- Understanding of document management and eDiscovery system architecture
- Comfortable leading operational changes and mentoring team members
EDUCATIONAL AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 2-4 years of experience in database and systems administration roles
- Extensive experience in managing structured database environments, virtualization, and enterprise platforms
- Preferred: Certifications in SQL Server, VMware, Microsoft infrastructure, or eDiscovery tools
SUCCESS METRICS:- System uptime and performance SLAs
- Timely execution of patches, updates, and upgrades
- Accuracy and completeness of documentation
- Reduction in unplanned downtime or incidents
- Knowledge sharing and peer mentoring impact
GROWTH PATH:- Technical architect or Infrastructure lead depending on interest and firm needs
PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF POSITION: Work is performed in a professional office environment and requires the following during the workday:
- Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time (working at a computer)
- Ability to move/traverse about inside the office intermittently throughout the day (attend meetings, access file cabinets, obtain supplies from supply room, etc.)
- Operate computer and other office equipment such as a copy machine, printer, telephone, etc.
- Repetitive movement (i.e. heavy computer/keyboard use).
- Individuals will interact regularly with others verbally, in-person, and via written communication.
- Will require occasional light (files, copy paper, etc.) and heavier lifting individually or as part of a multi-person team.
IN ADDITION TO THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OUTLINED ABOVE:- Individual in this position will provide additional assistance and support as directed by his/her supervisor.
- This job description is subject to change at any time.
The estimated salary range for this position is $93,400 - $118,200 per year. This is an exempt position not eligible for overtime. The compensation offered will be dependent on the candidate's experience, skills, education, professional background, overall qualifications, and geographic market location.
It is the policy of Robins Kaplan LLP to provide equal employment opportunities for all without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. It is also our policy to work with individuals with disabilities when reasonable accommodations, sufficient to allow a person with a disability to perform the essential functions of their job, may be needed. It is our policy to be a workplace free from illegal discrimination and harassment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
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