IT Intern, Database Administration

At American Equity Investment Life Holding Companywe offer leading annuity products that help empower our clients to fulfill their needs and wants in retirement. Our success comes from hiring high-energy individuals who embody the beliefs that drive our unique culture. We currently fund over half a million retirements nationwide, and have been headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, for over twenty-five years with satellite offices in Charlotte, NC and New York, NY.

The AEL Summer Internship Program offers an immersive real-world experience, closely replicating the career journey of an American Equity professional. Each intern will contribute to meaningful, hands-on projects that drive measurable business outcomes, gaining valuable experience along the way.

Interns will also have the opportunity to present their project work to company leaders, network with executives, and participate in educational programs designed to support their personal and professional growth. Additionally, interns will engage in community service projects and social events, building connections with fellow interns and the broader American Equity team.

General Purpose Of The Job

The Database Administration intern gains hands on experience managing and optimizing a variety of database platforms, including PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, Snowflake, Pervasive, and DynamoDB. In this role, the intern collaborates with a dynamic team to enhance database performance, ensure robust security, and support our network and server administration efforts.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Shadows Database Admins to learn essential duties and functions of the role.
• Optimize Performance: Fine-tunes SQL queries from business users, report generators, and developers to enhance performance.
• Document & Build: Creates and maintains comprehensive documentation on database systems and processes; builds and configures database management systems (DBMS) instances.
• Troubleshoot & Upgrade: Diagnoses and resolves system issues; performs and tests upgrades for DBMS servers.
• Collaborate: Works with data architects, engineers, and developers to establish, maintain, and monitor data networks.
• Migrate & Convert: Oversees database server migrations and develop conversion scripts between different database platforms.
• Manage & Secure: Monitors, manages, and maintains database performance, security, and functionality.
• Design & Optimize: Develops and refines the physical design of database systems; manages user access and assist with ETL tool repositories such as Informatica and SSIS.
• Automate & Report: Automates routine administrative tasks; provides detailed status reports on ongoing and upcoming projects to keep management informed.
• Performs other related work as assigned.
  
  

Supervisory Responsibilities

Direct Reports:

None

General Description Of Indirect Reports (2 And 3-downs)

None

Education And/Or Experience

Actively pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, MIS, Mathematics, Information Management, or related field of study.

Certificates, Licenses, Professional Designations

N/A

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and effectively.
• Adaptability: Proven ability to handle change, unexpected events, and pressure with professionalism and poise.
• Analytical Mindset: Strong problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail; adept at analyzing data and drawing actionable insights.
• Technical Proficiency: Comfortable with Microsoft Office Suite and capable of interpreting technical documents and business procedures.
• Team Player: Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse teams and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Customer Focus: Outstanding customer service skills with a commitment to excellence in all interactions.
• Initiative: Proactive and dedicated to completing tasks efficiently and effectively.
• Simplicity in Communication: Skilled at breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand terms.
  
  

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This description covers the major purpose and essential functions of the job. It is not intended to give all details or a step-by-step account of the way each task is to be performed. Employees may receive other job-related instructions and be required to perform other job-related work requested by their manager. All requirements are subject to possible modification to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities.