Principal Database Engineer – SQL Server & AI Data Infrastructure
Core
Design, develop, optimize, and modernize large-scale SQL Server databases and data platforms while integrating AI-enabled capabilities like embeddings and vector search.
Role type
Principal Database Engineer (SQL Server & AI Infrastructure)
Builds
Production-grade transactional and analytical data platforms supporting enterprise applications and AI workflows
Domain
Enterprise Data Engineering, Financial Services, AI Infrastructure
Deliverable
production ML models | production ML models | infrastructure
Required skills
SQL Server, T-SQL, query optimization, database modernization, Python, C#, data pipelines, event-driven architectures, database internals, AI coding assistants, vector databases, semantic search, infrastructure-as-code, CI/CD
Preferred skills
Oracle PL/SQL, RAG, Kafka, NoSQL, highly regulated industry experience, customer-facing system support
Technologies
SQL Server, PostgreSQL, Snowflake, Azure SQL, Cosmos DB, AWS, Terraform, ARM/Bicep, GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Kafka
Responsibilities
Design and refactor complex T-SQL and stored procedures; optimize database performance via execution-plan analysis; lead database modernization and migration strategies; implement event-driven patterns like CDC and outbox; engineer high-volume data pipelines; integrate AI tools for automation and schema analysis; mentor engineers and drive technical initiatives; resolve high-impact production incidents
Seniority
Principal, hands-on IC with strategic ownership