Database Administrator (Hybrid)

The role – what you’ll do

Barr is seeking a database administrator to join our Minneapolis, Minnesota, team. In this hybrid role, you will support the Information Systems group, playing a key part in managing the performance, integrity, and security of our internal database systems while supporting modernization and AI-readiness initiatives. You’ll oversee SQL Server environments, implement and maintain role-based access controls, and establish monitoring and alerting systems to proactively identify and resolve database issues. You’ll also perform routine maintenance, optimization, and backup tasks and collaborate with cross-functional teams to help ensure secure, scalable, and reliable data access across systems.

A successful person in this role has strong problem-solving skills and keen attention to detail in maintaining data integrity and system reliability. They are deadline driven and enjoy using their technical expertise to work collaboratively as part of a cross-functional team. They are also excited to help bridge legacy systems with the evolving demands of data governance, modernization, and scalable data infrastructure.

Your impact – key responsibilities

• Database administration and maintenance: administer and maintain SQL Server environment. Perform patching, upgrades, performance tuning, and routine maintenance tasks such as indexing and backups.

• Security and compliance: design and implement role-based access control (RBAC) to enforce database security. Support data governance and change management practices in alignment with emerging standards and practices.

• Modernization and cloud migration: support initiatives to transition from legacy systems to modern, cloud-based platforms and improve database structures and workflows.

• Strategic planning: focus on adopting emerging technologies like NoSQL, vector databases, and Azure-native services. Support AI/ML initiatives through data readiness and contribute to high-availability and disaster-recovery strategies.

About the opportunity

• A hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of Barr's Minneapolis, Minnesota, office.

About you – required core competencies

• Education: bachelor’s degree in computer science, data engineering, information systems, or a related field or equivalent experience.

• Experience: Three or more years of relevant experience.

  Managing Microsoft SQL Server in a production environment.

  Proficiency in T-SQL, query optimization, and database performance tuning.

  Knowledge of cloud-based database services, particularly within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem (e.g., Azure SQL Database, Azure Monitor).

  SQL Server backup, recovery, and high availability strategies, particularly SQL Server replication.

  Configuring and maintaining role-based access control (RBAC) in SQL Server.

• Software/Programs: SQL Server, SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS), Microsoft Azure ecosystem (e.g., Azure SQL Database, Azure Monitor).

• Communication: strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with a variety of different people.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Helpful additional experience (not required)

• Experience with NoSQL databases such as MongoDB, Redis, or DynamoDB for managing unstructured or semi-structured data.

• Familiarity with vector databases (e.g., Pinecone, Weaviate, Qdrant, Milvus) or the concept of embedding storage for AI/ML applications.

• Understanding of data architecture patterns used in AI/ML pipelines, including support for retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), chat history storage, or metadata management.

• Exposure to cloud-native database services in Azure.

• Ability to work with JSON-based or schema-less data models and flexible indexing strategies.

• Familiarity with graph databases like Neo4j or Amazon Neptune and their use in knowledge graphs or relationship modeling.

Compensation: anticipated range of $80,000–$100,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

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Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit:

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.