Position Summary
Payday HR is seeking an experienced HRIS / Database Administrator to serve as the primary technical owner of the ThinkWare platform — the cloud-native PEO software system that powers our payroll, benefits administration, billing, and workforce management operations. This role is responsible for SQL Server database administration, report development and maintenance, table configuration, data integrity, and internal technical support related to the Thinkware environment.
The ideal candidate combines strong SQL Server skills with a practical understanding of PEO or payroll/HR operations. This person will work cross-functionally with operations, finance, compliance, and client services teams to ensure that data is accurate, reporting is timely and actionable, and the Thinkware platform is optimized to support Payday HR’s growth.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Database Administration (SQL Server)
- Serve as the primary database administrator for the ThinkWare SQL Server environment.
- Manage, maintain, and optimize SQL Server databases supporting payroll, benefits, billing, and HR operations.
- Design, create, and modify database tables, views, stored procedures, and indexes to support evolving business needs.
- Monitor database performance, run diagnostics, and implement tuning and optimization strategies.
- Manage database security including user access controls, permissions, and role-based access.
- Develop and maintain backup and disaster recovery procedures; test restoration processes regularly.
- Coordinate with ThinkWare support and professional services teams on platform updates, patches, and upgrades.
Reporting and Data Analytics
- Build, maintain, and modify SQL-based reports (SSRS, Crystal Reports, or native reporting tools) to support internal operations and client-facing deliverables.
- Develop ad hoc reports and data extracts for leadership, compliance, finance, and client services teams.
- Maintain a reporting library/catalog and ensure documentation of report logic, data sources, and refresh schedules.
- Translate business requirements into technical report specifications; work with end users to refine outputs.
- Identify opportunities to automate recurring reports and reduce manual data handling.
System Administration and IT Support
- Serve as the internal subject matter expert and primary technical contact for the ThinkWare platform.
- Manage system configuration including table setup, field mapping, workflow rules, and user permissions within ThinkWare.
- Troubleshoot system issues, data discrepancies, and integration errors; coordinate with ThinkWare for escalated support.
- Support platform integrations with third-party systems (benefits carriers, insurance, general ledger, time and attendance, etc.).
- Lead or assist with system upgrades, data migrations, and implementation of new modules or features.
- Train and support internal staff on functionality, reporting tools, and best practices.
Data Integrity and Compliance
- Ensure accuracy, consistency, and integrity of data across the Thinkware platform and related systems.
- Develop and enforce data governance standards and procedures.
- Support audit and compliance requirements including SOC 2, ERISA, and applicable federal/state data regulations.
- Maintain documentation of database schemas, data dictionaries, and system configurations.
Qualifications
Required
- 3–5+ years of hands-on experience administering Microsoft SQL Server databases (2016 or later).
- Strong proficiency writing and optimizing complex SQL queries, stored procedures, views, and functions (T-SQL).
- Experience with SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS), Crystal Reports, or comparable reporting platforms.
- Demonstrated experience with database table design, schema management, indexing strategies, and performance tuning.
- Experience managing or supporting an HRIS, payroll, or PEO software platform.
- Solid understanding of database security, backup/recovery, and disaster recovery planning.
- Ability to translate business needs into technical solutions and communicate effectively with non-technical stakeholders.
Preferred
- Direct experience with ThinkWare products (Darwin, or DNet).
- Experience working in a PEO, ASO, or payroll service bureau environment.
- Familiarity with ERISA, SOC 2, or other HR/benefits compliance frameworks.
- Experience with data integration/ETL processes between HR, payroll, benefits, and financial systems.
- Microsoft SQL Server certifications (e.g., Azure Database Administrator Associate, MCSA: SQL Server).
- Experience with cloud-hosted SQL environments (Azure SQL, AWS RDS).
- Familiarity with Power BI or other business intelligence/visualization tools.
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or equivalent combination of certifications & experience.
Key Competencies
- Ability to diagnose complex data issues, identify root causes, and implement durable solutions.
- High degree of accuracy in database management, reporting, and data governance.
- Able to explain technical concepts to non-technical team members and leadership clearly and patiently.
- Works effectively across departments (operations, finance, compliance, client services) and with external vendors (ThinkWare).
- Proactively identifies process improvements, automation opportunities, and system optimizations.
- Handles sensitive employee and client data with discretion and in compliance with applicable regulations.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $28.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
