Manage provisioning, configuration, and ongoing administration of Azure SQL databases and related services, aligned with client capacity and performance needs.
Monitor and tune database performance using Azure Monitor, Query Performance Insight, and other diagnostic tools to ensure optimal query execution and resource utilisation.
Perform regular patching, maintenance, and security updates on database servers and associated infrastructure.
Ensure the client data platform (SQL databases, data lake, file shares) remains operational during supported hours (09:00–17:30).
Troubleshoot platform issues, including connection failures, performance degradation, and data-access problems, resolving issues in line with SLAs.
Maintain clear operational documentation for configurations, processes, and incident resolutions.
Implement Azure SQL security controls including encryption, RBAC, firewall rules, and auditing to ensure compliance with government-grade security and GDPR standards.
Enforce data governance policies covering access management, backup policies, recovery objectives, and data handling standards.
Manage automated backups, geo-replication (where appropriate), and disaster-recovery configurations for SQL databases.
Ensure rapid recovery procedures are in place and periodically tested.
Support client Engineers in maintaining ETL/ELT pipelines across SQL, Azure Data Lake, and Databricks environments.
Assist with ingestion, transformation, and optimisation of analytic datasets used by client analysts.
Contribute to scalable architecture patterns informed by Azure best practice for analytics and data lakehouse architectures
Automate routine tasks (backups, alerts, performance scans, updates) using PowerShell, Azure CLI, or automation services to streamline operations.
Drive platform improvements that enhance reliability, scalability, and operational efficiency.

Requirements

Strong experience administering Azure SQL Database, SQL Server, and related Azure data services.
Experience working with data lakes (incl. Delta Lakes) and familiarity with modern analytics architectures.
Proficiency with ETL/ELT tooling, particularly Databricks, Azure Data Factory, and SQL-based transformations.
Expertise in performance tuning, query optimisation, indexing strategies, and capacity planning.
Deep understanding of database security, IAM, encryption, and compliance frameworks.
Proven ability to manage enterprise-grade databases with high availability and security requirements.
Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills under pressure.
Ability to maintain consistent support coverage, collaborating within a managed service team
Clear communication skills for supporting analysts, data engineers, and senior stakeholders.
Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or equivalent practical experience.
Relevant Microsoft certifications (e.g., Azure Database Administrator Associate, Azure Data Engineer Associate) strongly desirable.
UKSV (United Kingdom Security Vetting) clearance is required for this role, with Security Check (SC) as the minimum standard, either already held or with a willingness to undergo the process.

Benefits

Annual two-day technical hackathon bringing together all technical teams for innovation and collaboration
Monthly Engineering & Architecture Community of Practice event
Bi-annual whole company teambuilding events bringing everyone together for a day of fun and connection
Development access to Pluralsight and LinkedIn Learning
Volunteering - 2 paid days per year to volunteer in our local communities or within a charity organisation
Private Medical Insurance which is non-contributory (spouse and dependants included)
Worldwide Travel Insurance which is non-contributory (spouse and dependants included)
Life Assurance of 4 times base salary
Time off - 25 days of annual leave a year, plus bank holidays, with the option to buy 5 extra days each year
Pension Salary Exchange Scheme with 4% employer contribution and 5% employee contribution
Wellness 24/7 Confidential employee assistance programme
Social - office parties, pizza Friday and commitment to charitable causes

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

Azure SQL DatabaseSQL Serverdata lakesETLELTDatabricksAzure Data Factoryperformance tuningquery optimisationdatabase security

Soft Skills

diagnostic skillstroubleshooting skillscollaborationcommunication skillsproblem-solving

Certifications

Azure Database Administrator AssociateAzure Data Engineer AssociateUKSV clearanceSecurity Check (SC)