Michael Paycer

Michael Paycer

SQL Server DBA / Developer
Saint Cloud, Minnesota · (320) 761-9719 · michael.paycer@gmail.com · michaelpaycer.com

SQL Server DBA and Developer with 19+ years of experience specializing in performance tuning, Always-On Availability Groups, HA/DR, ETL, and secure database solutions.

Who am I?

Professional Profile

I help organizations solve complex database challenges, improve performance, and build reliable systems that scale. My work is rooted in practical problem-solving, clear communication, and long-term client relationships.

I work with clients and internal teams to understand the business goal first, then design database, reporting, ETL, security, and infrastructure solutions that support that vision.

What I’m best at

What I Do

SQL Server

Administration, development, migrations, indexing, stored procedures, query tuning, SSIS, SSRS, monitoring, and operational support.

HA/DR

Always-On Availability Groups, disaster recovery planning, backup/restore strategy, failover testing, and recovery procedures.

Security

Database and server hardening aligned with PCI, DoD STIGs, SOC2 expectations, least privilege, audits, and operational controls.

Core Expertise

Database Consulting Focus

  • SQL Server Performance Tuning & Query Optimization
  • Always-On Availability Groups & HA/DR Architecture
  • Database Migrations from SQL Server 2008 R2 through modern SQL Server versions
  • ETL Development using SSIS, T-SQL, C#, and cloud services
  • Azure SQL, AWS RDS, EC2, Lambda, S3, and cloud data workflows
  • SSRS reporting, dashboards, KPIs, and business intelligence support
  • SQL Server/IIS/Windows security hardening and compliance
  • Monitoring with Redgate, SentryOne, Quest Spotlight, Rubrik, and Dynatrace
My Professional Background

Work Experience

2014 – Present
SQL DBA / Developer — Owner
SMARTSense Consulting, LLC

SQL Server Development and Administration for diverse client environments

  • Delivered SQL Server development and administration solutions to 25+ active clients with complex and diverse data environments.
  • Built and optimized 50+ web applications and custom data systems.
  • Designed ETL pipelines, SSRS reporting, KPI dashboards, and data transformation workflows across healthcare, education, and enterprise systems.
  • Secured SQL Server, IIS, and Windows environments for PCI and related compliance expectations.
2024 – 2025
Database Analyst 3
KwikTrip

High availability, disaster recovery, and SQL Server operations

  • Deployed three-node multi-subnet Always-On AG clusters with CDC and full DR configuration in QA and Production.
  • Mentored DBAs in Always-On, performance optimization, SSRS, and troubleshooting.
  • Collaborated on Rubrik-based backup strategies and recovery planning.
2021 – 2023
Microsoft SQL Server DBA
Cloudadio

SQL Server migration, monitoring, and performance improvement

  • Led SQL Server 2012 to 2019 migrations covering databases, SSRS, SSIS packages, and linked servers.
  • Resolved performance and deadlock issues using Redgate Monitor and diagnostic analysis.
  • Supported backup, restore, mirroring, PowerShell automation, and disaster recovery processes.
2019 – Present
Microsoft SQL Server DBA
Blumenthal Performing Arts

SQL Server upgrades, reporting, and operations

  • Led database migrations from SQL Server 2008 to 2017, including SSRS, SSIS packages, linked servers, and SQL Agent jobs.
  • Optimized SSRS report performance and managed backup, restore, monitoring, and testing activities.
2018 – 2022
Data Architect
Cenetric, Inc.

Azure ETL architecture and supplier data integration

  • Designed and implemented an Azure ETL system to aggregate data from 15 feeds across 20+ suppliers and distribution centers.
  • Built serverless C# function architecture and mentored team members in Azure SQL and T-SQL.
2006 – 2013
Programmer / Analyst
Central Minnesota R&D Council

Software development and SQL Server infrastructure support

  • Supported financial, human resources, and web application software used by 300+ Minnesota school districts.
  • Managed SQL Server installations, configurations, networking, automation, SSIS packages, SSRS reports, and ASP.NET applications.
My Education

Education & Training

St. Cloud Technical & Community College

  • AAS — Database Administration & Development
  • AAS — Microcomputer Programming
  • AAS — Computer Programming (AS/400)

Intertech — Eagan, Minnesota

  • Complete C# using Visual Studio 2010
  • Complete ASP.NET 4.0 Training
Skills & Knowledge

Technical Skills

Databases

SQL Server 20xxAzure SQLMySQLMariaDBDB2MS Access

Development

T-SQLPowerShellC#ASP.NETVB.NETADO.NET

Cloud & ETL

AWS RDSEC2LambdaS3SSISSSRS

Tools

RedgateRubrikDynatraceSentryOneQuest SpotlightGitHub
Recognitions

Certifications

  • MCTS: Microsoft SQL Server Development
  • MCP: Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2014
  • CompTIA A+
  • CWNP CWNA
Get in touch

Contact

Have a SQL Server project, migration, performance issue, compliance effort, or HA/DR initiative?

Email: michael.paycer@gmail.com
Phone: 320.761.9719
Location: Saint Cloud, Minnesota