Database Administrator

Database Administrator (DBA)

We are looking for a skilled and proactive Database Administrator (DBA) to oversee the management, optimization, and performance of our database ecosystem, which includes Microsoft SQL Server, Azure Database for PostgreSQL, and Azure Data Lake Storage. The ideal candidate will ensure our databases are secure, scalable, and highly available, while supporting business-critical applications and data platforms.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives on solving problems, has a solid technical background, and is keen to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

This role will initially be for a 3 - 6 month fixed term contract, and is fully remote (within the UK).

Main Responsibilities

Microsoft SQL Server (Managed & Unmanaged Azure SQL Databases)

• Administer and maintain transactional SQL Server databases across managed and unmanaged Azure environments.
• Monitor and optimize performance using indexing, query tuning, and execution plan analysis.
• Manage security, user access, roles, and compliance with enterprise-grade security best practices.
• Ensure automated patching, backups, and scaling are functioning optimally.
• Develop and maintain documentation, policies, and procedures for SQL Server environments.

Azure Database for PostgreSQL

• Support PostgreSQL databases used by microservices requiring advanced features and geospatial capabilities via PostGIS.
• Monitor database health, implement performance improvements, and ensure high availability.
• Manage schema changes, extensions, and database version upgrades.
• Work closely with application teams to support PostgreSQL database design and integration.

Azure Data Lake Storage

• Oversee data organization, lifecycle policies, access controls, and disaster recovery planning.
• Collaborate with data engineers and analysts to ensure seamless ingestion, processing, and retrieval of large-scale data sets.
• Monitor storage performance, cost, and usage patterns to optimize operations and control spending.
• Ensure data integrity, security, and compliance within the Data Lake environment.
• Perform preventive maintenance tasks during low-traffic hours to minimize disruption to daytime operations
• Monitor and respond to alerts or incidents affecting database performance or availability

Required Experience/Skills

• 5+ years of experience in database administration, with a strong focus on Microsoft SQL Server and/or PostgreSQL.
• Proven experience with Azure-based managed database services, including Azure SQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL.
• Familiarity with PostGIS and spatial data processing.
• Experience with Azure Data Lake Storage, particularly in data governance, organization, and cost optimization.
• Proficiency in T-SQL and PL/pgSQL.
• Strong understanding of database security, backups, replication, and disaster recovery.
• Ability to automate tasks using PowerShell, Bash, or equivalent scripting languages.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communicator, able to work cross-functionally with development, DevOps, and data teams.
• Self-motivated and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to delivering reliable and secure data infrastructure.

Desirable Experience/Skills

• Azure certifications (e.g., Azure Database Administrator Associate).
• Experience with Infrastructure-as-Code (e.g., Terraform, ARM templates).
• Exposure to CI/CD pipelines for database deployments.
• Understanding of data warehousing concepts and analytics platforms.