Database Administrator (DBA) - SQL Server
SKILLS
FULL DESCRIPTION
[Employer hidden — view at passion-project.co.uk] is seeking a capable and motivated Database Administrator (SQL Server) with solid hands‑on experience in SQL Server administration, foundational Azure SQL management, and practical query optimisation skills. The role is responsible for supporting the stability, performance, and security of [Employer hidden]’s database estate while working closely with developers and the IT Infrastructure team.
Job Details: Database Administrator (DBA) - SQL Server
Full details of the job.
Database Administrator (DBA) – SQL Server – The Role: [Employer hidden] is seeking a capable and motivated Database Administrator (SQL Server) with solid hands‑on experience in SQL Server administration, foundational Azure SQL management, and practical query optimisation skills. The role is responsible for supporting the stability, performance, and security of [Employer hidden]’s database estate while working closely with developers and the IT Infrastructure team. The Database Administrator will assist with database installation, configuration, server setup, and environment readiness in collaboration with IT Infrastructure. This includes coordinating provisioning activities, ensuring SQL Server instances are deployed correctly, and supporting developers by reviewing SQL code, helping them refactor inefficient queries, and advising on schema changes for improved performance. This position is ideal for a strong mid‑level DBA who is growing their cloud and performance‑tuning capabilities, enjoys collaborative work across development and infrastructure teams, and is looking to build deeper expertise within a supportive and evolving technical environment.
Database Administrator (DBA) – SQL Server– Key Responsibilities: - SQL Server Administration - Responsible for installing, configuring, patching, and maintaining SQL Server instances across development and production environments; managing backups, restores, user provisioning, role‑based security, and scheduled maintenance tasks; and assisting with high‑availability configurations using standard SQL Server features. - Azure SQL (Foundational-Level Tasks) - Support Azure SQL database management activities including monitoring, scaling, and configuration; participate in structured Azure migration initiatives; and perform basic troubleshooting and optimisation using Azure SQL’s built‑in tools and recommendations. - Performance Tuning & Database Optimisation - Perform comprehensive performance tuning by identifying inefficient operations, adjusting configuration settings, and applying indexing strategies; proactively monitor databases for performance bottlenecks across server, database, and query levels; carry out detailed query optimisation through execution plan analysis (e.g., detecting scans, lookups, and suboptimal operators) and rewriting queries using efficient T‑SQL patterns, set‑based operations, and optimised join logic; and collaborate with developers to improve database access, resolve recurring issues, and ensure new features are designed with performance best practices. - Collaboration & Support - Work closely with developers, QA engineers, and product teams to support all database‑related requirements; assist in code reviews for stored procedures and SQL queries; and provide 2nd‑line support for database incidents, ensuring clear communication and appropriate escalation when required. - Documentation & Best Practices - Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date documentation covering database configurations and standard operating procedures; and follow [Employer hidden]’s established change control, security, and compliance practices.
Database Administrator (DBA) – SQL Server– You: Essential - A minimum of 3 years’ experience working as an SQL Server DBA or in a similar role, with a solid understanding of SQL Server installation, configuration, security, and ongoing maintenance. - Strong T‑SQL skills for writing and refactoring efficient queries, along with experience supporting development teams with SQL‑related queries and database access patterns. - Ability to interpret SQL Server execution plans at an intermediate level, including identifying scans, missing indexes, and common performance bottlenecks. - Understanding of performance tuning techniques such as indexing, statistics, and efficient query structure. - Exposure to Azure SQL, including monitoring, general administration, and basic optimisation. Desirable - Experience participating in SQL‑to‑Azure migrations or cloud modernisation projects. - Familiarity with PowerShell or scripting for automation. - Use of monitoring tools such as Redgate, SolarWinds, or Azure Monitor. - Understanding of HA/DR concepts (AlwaysOn, backups, failover). - Microsoft certifications such as DP‑900, DP‑300, or legacy SQL Server certifications (e.g., MCSA, MCSE, MCITP).
Database Administrator (DBA) – SQL Server – Benefits: - Competitive salary - 25 days holiday plus bank holidays (with option of buying more) - Group Life Assurance - Income Protection - Generous pension scheme - Health cash plan - Additional optional benefits to best suit your lifestyle - Social events - Volunteering opportunities To submit your application for this exciting Database Administrator (DBA) – SQL Server opportunity, please click ‘Apply’ now! If you are interested in this opportunity and wish to have a confidential conversation about the scope and expectations, please contact [contact hidden]. [Employer hidden] reserves the right to close our vacancies early and will endeavour to respond to all applicants. However, if for any reason you have not heard back within 28 days of applying, please assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.