Van Kaizen is seeking a Lead Database Administrator for a remote position based in Costa Rica. The role supports a software company serving process manufacturers, chemical distributors, and engineering organizations. While this is primarily a database administration role, Microsoft Access is specifically called out as one of the platforms you'll be responsible for managing and modernizing.

What the role entails: Managing databases across multiple platforms including Microsoft Access, SQL Server, MySQL, and PostgreSQL. Responsibilities include backups, performance tuning, security, governance, monitoring, and leading migration projects from legacy Access systems to modern database platforms. You'll work closely with architects, developers, and product teams to document legacy systems and develop migration strategies.

About the company: Van Kaizen is a recruiting firm representing a software provider focused on solutions for process manufacturers, chemical distributors, and engineering firms. The employer appears to be heavily invested in modernizing legacy systems while maintaining support for existing customers and applications.

Rick's take: This is an interesting one because it's not really an Access developer position. It's more of an Access retirement position. They are specifically looking for someone to help move organizations away from Access and onto more modern platforms. Ironically, that means they need someone who understands Access really well. If you've ever heard someone say, "Access is dead," jobs like this tell a different story. Companies don't hire lead database administrators to migrate systems that nobody uses. The fact that they need an expert to manage and document these Access applications before migration means those databases are still important to the business. This role is best suited for someone with strong SQL Server and DBA experience who also understands Access architecture, linked tables, VBA applications, and database design.