MySQL DBA - REMOTE (US Based Only)

About the position Fortified Data is a fast-growing, fully remote database services company helping organizations worldwide optimize their most critical data environments. As trusted advisors in database management, administration, and strategic consulting, we partner with clients to design solutions that don't just solve today's challenges—they scale for tomorrow's growth. Our team brings deep expertise across high-volume, mission-critical systems, and we're known for translating complex technical problems into clear, actionable business strategies. We don't just manage databases—we elevate data engagements and transform technology environments. We've built a collaborative, curious culture where your expertise matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is real—from anywhere. Fortified Data is an equal-opportunity employer. Eligible candidates must provide evidence of legal working status for any employer in the U.S. Fortified Data is currently seeking a mid-level MySQL Database Administrator (DBA) who will play an integral role within the technical service delivery team. The MySQL DBA will be responsible for effectively designing, managing, and supporting MySQL database systems for clients. As the MySQL DBA, you will take ownership of ensuring the stability, reliability, predictability, availability, and performance of our clients' MySQL databases.

Responsibilities

• Manage priority of inbound support requests
• Respond to client issues within targeted response times specified in SLA (service level agreement)
• Resolve database integrity issues, performance issues, blocking and deadlocking issues, replication issues, connectivity issues, and security issues specific to MySQL.
• Communicate ticket status with team members and clients
• Document in detail the resolution of each issue within our Ticket Management System
• Enter time spent with clients in real-time
• Be an escalation point during critical client events as part of a 24 x 7 team
• Plan and perform the installation of MySQL Database application software, patches, and services packs
• Proactive database monitoring and maintenance for MySQL databases
• Ensure the integrity and security of client MySQL databases
• Consolidate and tune MySQL databases for optimal performance
• Perform backups and restores for MySQL databases
• MySQL database performance monitoring, optimization, and tuning
• Implement and support systems for high availability and disaster recovery for MySQL databases (e.g., replication, clustering, failover solutions)
• Generate and maintain scripts to support MySQL DB creation, schemas, automate tasks, and related activities
• Perform root cause analysis, document, and present findings to clients for MySQL-related issues
• Update internal processes and support documentation related to MySQL databases
• Mentor Junior DBAs in MySQL administration
• Interest in Conducting Internal Lunch Learns specifically on MySQL topics
• Interest in Publishing BLOGs and White Papers focused on MySQL technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• 3-5 years of MySQL Database Administration experience
• MySQL versions 5.7, 8.0, and 8.4 (or later)
• Advanced installation, configuration, and patching of MySQL database software
• MySQL replication technologies including master-slave, group replication, and InnoDB Cluster
• Backup and recovery strategies using tools such as mysqldump, Percona XtraBackup, or MySQL Enterprise Backup
• High availability and disaster recovery implementation
• Proficiency with MySQL Query Language (SQL) and query optimization
• Performance tuning including query optimization, index design, and explain plan analysis
• Understanding of InnoDB storage engine, buffer pool management, and locking mechanisms
• Effective utilization of Performance Schema, MySQL Enterprise Monitor, or third-party monitoring tools (Prometheus, Grafana, Zabbix)
• Implementation of MySQL security models including authentication, authorization, and encryption at rest and in transit
• Understanding of ACID principles and transaction management
• Intermediate knowledge of Linux and Windows Server operating systems
• Basic understanding of network configurations, subnets, and firewalls
• Customer Service: Listens and responds effectively to customer questions; resolves customer problems to the customer’s satisfaction. Respects all internal and external customers and uses a team approach when dealing with customers to exceeding customer expectations.
• Ability to Multi-Task: Proven ability to manage multiple issues and/or projects successfully bringing them all to resolution in a timely manner.
• Problem Solving: Anticipates problems, recognizes and accurately evaluates the signs of a problem and analyzes current procedures for possible improvements.
• Detail Oriented: Thoroughness in accomplishing a task through concern for all the areas involved, no matter how small. Monitors and checks work or information and plans and organizes time and resources efficiently.
• Automation / Tools: Proficient in use of all Microsoft Office software applications including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Willingness and ability to learn and implement new software applications and technologies.

Nice-to-haves

• 1+ years PostgreSQL administration experience including installation, configuration, and basic performance tuning
• Python, Bash, or Shell scripting for database automation
• Prior experience with a Managed Services Provider
• Demonstrated experience with data extraction, manipulation, and ETL processes
• Working knowledge of cloud-based database services (AWS RDS/Aurora, Google Cloud SQL, or Azure Database for MySQL)
• Experience with containerized databases (Docker, Kubernetes)
• MySQL automation and infrastructure-as-code tools (Ansible, Terraform)
• MySQL Workbench, Zabbix, and advanced Performance Schema utilization
• Experience with database migration tools and strategies
• MySQL clustering solutions (InnoDB Cluster, Galera)
• 1+ years Oracle or PostgreSQL database administration experience (bonus but not required)
• 1+ years MS SQL Server database administration experience (bonus but not required)