Database & Systems Engineer

The Database & Systems Administrator is responsible for the administration, support, and optimisation of the organisation's database platforms and business-critical systems, including accounting and financial applications. The role will ensure system availability, performance, security, and compliance, while supporting both operational activities and project delivery across the IT function.

Key Responsibilities

Database Administration (Primary Focus)

• Administer, maintain, and optimise Microsoft SQL Server environments (or equivalent)
• Manage database backup, recovery, and disaster recovery processes
• Monitor database performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement tuning improvements
• Design and maintain database structures to support business applications
• Ensure data integrity, consistency, and security across all environments

Business-Critical Systems Support

• Provide technical support and administration for business-critical systems
• Work closely with business stakeholders to ensure systems meet operational requirements
• Support integrations between databases and business systems
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues impacting financial and operational processes

Security, Compliance & Vulnerability Management

• Carry out patching, upgrades, and compliance-related changes across the estate
• Remediate vulnerabilities identified through penetration testing and security assessments
• Ensure systems align with internal security policies and external compliance requirements
• Support audit activities and maintain appropriate system documentation

Systems Administration

• Support underlying infrastructure hosting database and business systems
• Maintain system reliability, performance, and availability
• Assist with capacity planning and lifecycle management of systems

Project Delivery

• Act as a technical resource across IT projects, including system upgrades, migrations, integrations
• Support the delivery of new systems or enhancements to existing platforms
• Work with cross-functional teams to ensure successful project outcomes
• Contribute to technical design, testing, and implementation activities

Operational & Support Activities

• Provide 2nd/3rd line support for database and application-related issues
• Participate in out-of-hours support and maintenance windows where required
• Maintain clear documentation, runbooks, and operational procedures
• Continuously improve processes, automation, and system reliability
• Keep track of License requirements, ensuring we remain compliant

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Essential

• Strong SQL Server administration experience (backup/recovery, performance tuning, security)
• Experience supporting business-critical systems, particularly accounting or finance platforms
• Solid understanding of database security and vulnerability remediation
• Experience managing system upgrades, patching, and compliance activities
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills across systems and applications

Desirable

• Experience with integration tools and data pipelines
• Knowledge of cloud platforms (e.g., Azure SQL, hybrid environments)
• Scripting/automation skills (PowerShell, SQL scripting)
• Experience supporting reporting tools (e.g., Cognos, Power BI)

Job Benefits

• 25 days holiday per year plus bank holidays
• Contributory Pension Scheme
• Free on-site Parking
• Holiday Buy Scheme
• Volunteer Scheme
• Share Save Scheme
• Life Assurance
• Enhanced Maternity, Adoption & Paternity Scheme
• Health & Wellbeing Initiatives
• Discount Scheme