SQL Database Administrator

We're looking for an experienced Microsoft SQL Database Administrator to take ownership of a large and complex SQL Server estate. This is a hands-on role where you'll ensure high availability, performance, and security across multiple environments, while proactively monitoring and resolving issues before they impact the business.

If you're passionate about performance tuning, query optimisation, and leveraging cloud technologies like Azure SQL Managed Instance, we'd love to hear from you. What You'll Do

• Database Administration

• Install, configure, and upgrade SQL Server instances.
• Manage and maintain a large-scale SQL Server environment across multiple platforms.
• Implement robust backup, restore, and disaster recovery strategies.

• Performance & Optimisation

• Tune queries and stored procedures for maximum efficiency.
• Design and maintain indexing strategies.
• Conduct regular health checks and capacity planning.

• Monitoring & Troubleshooting

• Proactively monitor performance and resource utilisation.
• Diagnose and resolve issues such as deadlocks and blocking.
• Implement alerts and automated monitoring solutions.

• Security & Compliance

• Apply best practices for database security and access control.
• Ensure compliance with data protection and regulatory standards.

• Collaboration

• Partner with development teams to optimise application-database interactions.
• Provide technical guidance on database-related projects.
• Participate in on-call rotations for critical production support.

• Technical Skills

• 5+ years of hands-on experience with Microsoft SQL Server (2019+ preferred).
• Strong T-SQL skills, query optimisation, and index management.
• Experience with HA/DR solutions (AlwaysOn, clustering, log shipping).
• Familiarity with performance monitoring tools (SQL Profiler, Extended Events, DMVs).
• Exposure to Azure SQL Managed Instance highly desirable.
• Microsoft certifications (MCSA, MCSE) are a plus.

• Additional Skills

• Knowledge of SSRS, SSIS, and SQL Server Agent jobs.
• Scripting and automation experience (PowerShell preferred).
• Understanding of cloud deployments and migration strategies.
• Bonus: C#, .NET, Python.

• Soft Skills

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.