Senior SQL Server Database Developer

Senior SQL Server Database Developer

West Lancashire | Hybrid

We're looking for a Senior SQL Server Database Developer to join an established R&D technology team and play a key role in a major Legacy application migration and data modernisation programme.

You'll be responsible for the design, development, optimisation and support of SQL Server databases that underpin business-critical R&D and manufacturing applications.

Working closely with software developers and business stakeholders, you'll help deliver robust, high-performing data solutions while supporting the transition to modern application technologies.

THE ROLE

• Lead the design, development and modernisation of SQL Server databases.
• Develop and maintain complex T-SQL, including stored procedures, functions, views and queries.
• Design effective database structures, data models, relationships and indexing strategies.
• Optimise SQL Server performance through query tuning, execution plans and indexing.
• Support Legacy application and database migration and modernisation projects.
• Develop and maintain data integrations between applications, databases and internal systems.
• Investigate and resolve database performance, data integrity and production issues.
• Take ownership of the full database development life cycle, from specification and design through to testing, deployment, documentation and support.
• Work closely with software developers, manufacturing teams and business stakeholders to deliver effective data solutions.
• Provide technical support for business-critical applications and databases.
• Promote database development standards, best practice and documentation.
• Mentor and support junior developers and colleagues.
• Investigate new technologies and approaches to improve database performance and capability.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS

• Strong commercial experience with Microsoft SQL Server and T-SQL.
• Proven experience in SQL Server database design, development and optimisation.
• Strong understanding of relational database design and data modelling.
• Experience with performance tuning, query optimisation, execution plans and indexing.
• Experience developing stored procedures, functions, views and other database objects.
• Experience diagnosing and resolving SQL Server performance and production issues.
• Experience with data integration, migration and transformation.
• Experience working alongside software development teams.
• Experience with CI/CD and the full software development life cycle.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A proactive, detail-oriented approach to database development and data quality.

DESIRABLE SKILLS

• Experience working with C# and .NET development teams.
• Experience modernising Legacy applications and databases.
• Experience with automated database deployment and CI/CD.
• Experience working with large or business-critical datasets.
• Knowledge of manufacturing, production, quality or R&D systems.
• Experience with Python or data analysis.
• Knowledge of data science, machine learning, probability or statistics.
• Relevant degree or equivalent commercial experience.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• We're looking for an experienced SQL Server professional who combines strong technical skills with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• You'll be comfortable taking ownership of complex database solutions, working collaboratively with developers and business stakeholders, and supporting business-critical systems.
• Experience with C#, .NET, JavaScript/jQuery, Python, Data Science or Machine Learning would be advantageous, but the key requirement is strong commercial SQL Server and T-SQL expertise.