SQL Server, XML output, database schema design, performance tuning

We have developed an e-learning application that supports classroom teaching and learning. The application captures a number of data points based on student activity online. The data points form the basis of reports which are fed back into the teaching and learning process. We wish to upgrade our reporting capability. For this purpose, we need to have a number of queries written that will enable us to manipulate the data for reporting purposes. This is the job of work that needs to be done. The person undertaking the work needs to understand the problem domain and write the queries. The person will report to our primary software developer. For this purpose of this job, "queries" does not just mean SELECT statements. The existing reporting structure relies on a combination of views and functions. An understanding of SQL Server in particular is important. We use a number of features specific to SQL Server (in particular the FOR XML PATH clause, since our reporting data is output as XML). While we do not expect this job of work to influence the existing table schema, we would expect that the person could design any new tables that were necessary. A knowledge of the profiling and optimization process (analysis of execution plans, design of appropriate indexes) would also be relevant.’ Developer must be a registered business that is located in the European Union