Job Description

SQL Server Database Administrator (DBA)

NB : although the role is mainly remote you will have to make visits to sites in Chester, Crewe and other locations in Cheshire occasionally. Please DO NOT apply unless you are prepared to do this.

About the Role

Are you an experienced SQL Server Database Administrator ready to make an impact in a dynamic team environment? Our client are looking for a skilled professional to join a team of SQL Server DBAs. Together, they support a large number of live, UAT, and development SQL instances, including cutting-edge technologies and GIS/Map Servers. You'll play a vital role in managing and maintaining the SQL Server estate, ensuring top-notch performance for enterprise-grade applications.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will be responsible for the following:

Installing and Configuring SQL Server Instances: Set up and configure new SQL Server environments (up to 2022), including Integration, Analysis, and Reporting Services.

Monitoring and Administration: Oversee and maintain a large number of SQL Server instances (including SQL Server & MSDE), ensuring performance, reliability, and timely issue resolution.

Troubleshooting SQL Issues: Diagnose and resolve SQL-related problems to minimize downtime.

Implementing Client Change Requests: Ensure all updates and changes follow controlled and documented processes.

Database Solution Development: Design database solutions that meet business needs, focusing on high availability and resilience.

Providing SQLSupport: Offer guidance and expertise on SQL systems to colleagues and clients. These Servers support a wide array of applications, from in-house ASP.NET solutions to third-party platforms like CRM, BizTalk, SharePoint, and GIS tools.

Skills and Experience

We are looking for someone with the following qualifications and abilities:

Essential Skills:

Experience of working in a large complex environment covering multiple site and data centres (on-prem and Cloud)
Experience in Microsoft SQL Server 2022, SQL Clustering, AOAG and instance stacking, Azure SQL services and experience of migrating workloads between platforms and versions
Experience of hybrid data integration constructing ETL & ELT processes in Azure Data Factory
Experience of managing SQL Server through Azure Arc is desirable
Good experience of SCOM and monitoring and setting up alerts
Practical experience of performance management and optimization
Ability to write and maintain PowerShell scripts
Knowledge of SQL Back-up (Ideally IDPA)
Capacity and compliance management
Knowledge of VMWare/VSphere, VXRail and Windows Server 2019/2022 including Perfmon

Desirable Skills:

Experience working in both virtualized, cloud and physical server environments.

In-depth Azure knowledge

Background in creating and maintaining quality management documentation, including deployment policies, disaster recovery plans, and audit checklists.

Capacity planning and server audit expertise.

Ability to mentor junior DBAs and collaborate effectively within a team environment.

Why Join?

This is an opportunity to become part of an established team that values collaboration, skill-sharing, and professional excellence. You'll work with a variety of applications and environments, giving you exposure to the latest technologies and challenges in database administration.