SQL developer

Role:Senior SQL Developer
Work Pattern:Hybrid
Location:Stoke-on-Trent
Salary:£45,000-£55,000

We're looking for an experienced Senior SQL Developer to take ownership of a Microsoft SQL Server environment, leading the design, development and optimisation of business-critical database solutions. This role offers the opportunity to provide technical leadership, influence database strategy, mentor other developers and deliver scalable, high-performance solutions that support a growing business.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys combining hands-on SQL development with technical leadership in a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take ownership of the design, development and ongoing enhancement of SQL Server database solutions.
• Serve as the technical expert for the SQL Server environment, driving best practices and providing guidance across the team.
• Maintain and optimise business-critical databases to ensure high levels of performance, security and availability.
• Develop and enhance complex stored procedures, functions, views, triggers and database integrations.
• Monitor database health and identify opportunities to improve performance, scalability and reliability.
• Investigate and resolve complex database issues, including performance bottlenecks, locking, blocking and data integrity challenges.
• Oversee database backup, recovery and disaster recovery strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Work closely with developers, analysts and key stakeholders to deliver robust technical solutions.
• Review code, uphold development standards and champion best practices across the team.
• Support project delivery through technical input, solution design and accurate effort estimation.
• Keep up to date with emerging technologies and recommend improvements to database architecture and development processes.

Key Skills & Experience:

• 5+ years' experience developing and administering Microsoft SQL Server database solutions.
• Expert knowledge of T-SQL, including stored procedures, functions, views and performance optimisation.
• Strong experience with relational database design, ETL processes (SSIS or equivalent) and high-volume transactional databases.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and optimise SQL performance, including query tuning, execution plans, locking and deadlocks.
• Experience with SQL Server backup, recovery, disaster recovery and High Availability technologies (Always On Availability Groups, Log Shipping and Replication).
• Experience with Azure SQL Database and/or Azure SQL Managed Instance.
• Familiarity with Git, Azure DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, PowerShell and SQL monitoring tools is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and stakeholder communication skills.

Desirable:

• Previous experience mentoring or coaching junior developers and helping to drive development best practices.
• Experience providing technical leadership and contributing to technical strategy and solution design.

Benefits:

• Up to 35 days holiday (including bank holidays).
• Enhanced family leave.
• Death in service cover.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Gym membership contribution.
• Private dental support.
• Employee recognition schemes and social events.
• Annual eye tests and contribution towards prescription glasses.
• Ongoing professional development within a collaborative and supportive working environment.

If you are interested, please apply now!