PostgreSQL Database Administrator

Description

We are seeking an experienced PostgreSQL Database Administrator (DBA) to manage, maintain, optimize, and secure enterprise PostgreSQL database environments. The ideal candidate will be responsible for database architecture, performance tuning, high availability, disaster recovery, security compliance, automation, and supporting mission-critical applications. This role requires strong technical expertise, proactive problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with development, infrastructure, cloud, and security teams.

This position is based at our Corporate Headquarters in Wood Dale, IL, with a planned relocation to the Merchandise Mart (Chicago) in early 2027.

What you will be responsible for:

Install, configure, upgrade, clone and maintain PostgreSQL database environments.

Monitor database health, performance, and availability across production, staging, and development environments.

Manage database objects including schemas, tables, indexes, partitions, views, functions, and stored procedures.

Perform regular database maintenance activities such as VACUUM, ANALYZE, REINDEX, Statistics management, Storage optimization.

Ensure database uptime and operational excellence through proactive monitoring and issue resolution.

Analyze slow-running queries and optimize SQL performance.

Design and maintain effective indexing strategies.

Perform query execution plan analysis using EXPLAIN, EXPLAIN ANALYZE, pg_stat_statements

Optimize PostgreSQL configuration parameters such as shared_buffers, work_mem, maintenance_work_mem, effective_cache_size, wal\_buffers.

Identify and eliminate performance bottlenecks related to CPU, memory, storage, and network resources.

Develop, test, and maintain backup & disaster recovery procedures.

Execute database refreshes, restores during incidents and recovery operations.

Implement database security standards and best practices.

Manage PostgreSQL environments on cloud platforms. Azure Database for PostgreSQL (preferred), AWS RDS for PostgreSQL.

Implement cloud-native monitoring and automation.

Optimize cloud database performance and costs.

Support hybrid and multi-cloud database architectures.

Supports the AAR development staff in the areas of database design as it relates to reliability, resource utilization, practical operations, database environment, bug fixes, and interaction with vendor support

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. A Database Administrator should have advanced knowledge of administration of PostgreSQL on on-prem and cloud. Strong migration experience in Oracle to PostgreSQL, MSSQL Server to PostgreSQL, On-prem to Azure migration experience preferred. Strong working experience with other database technologies such as Oracle, MSSQL Server, MySQL preferred.

Requirements:

5+ years’ work experience in PostgreSQL database administration and other related database technologies

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Strong interpersonal skills; the ability to work well with people from many disciplines and with varying degrees of business and technical experience

Strong, recent database administration technical skills, knowledge and background

Excellent knowledge of best practices around management, control, and monitoring of database infrastructure

Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to describe complex, highly technical issues using simple, clear, and precise language

Great at organizing, prioritizing, and multitasking

Strong troubleshooting skills

Technical writing skills are required for database management documentation and procedures

Additional Positives for the Position:

Holding credentials that demonstrates ability to perform a specific level of tasks related to database administration

Able to review and make decisions regarding the software and hardware required to meet the organization's needs

Training users in the proper use of company computer technology

Troubleshoot database operation errors and slowness

Experience working with RHEL and Windows environments

Compensation:

The anticipated salary range for this position is $110,000 to $130,000 annually. This range reflects the base salary for candidates who meet the requirements of the role, including experience, education, and location. [In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for a 10% bonus.] AAR offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/dental/vision/life/and AD&D insurance, 401(k) savings plan with employer match, paid time off and holiday pay, as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.

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Job: Information Technology

Primary Location: United States-Illinois-Wood Dale

Schedule: Full-time

Overtime Status: Exempt

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

• Bachelor’s degree in related field and 5+ years PostgreSQL database administration experience
• Strong technical skills in PostgreSQL on-premises and cloud, with migration experience preferred
• Excellent communication, troubleshooting, organizational, and technical writing skills