SQL DBA

Role overview

An Irish public sector client is looking for a skilled SQL Database Administrator to support a database estate on a temporary assignment. The engagement is planned for 12 months at the outset, with the possibility of extension. The position is remote, although the successful person must be available to attend client sites when required.

Working arrangement

This role is based on a 35-hour working week. The selected candidate will join as an agency employee and will be paid €31.70 per hour, which annualises to €57,898. The assignment also includes 30 days of annual leave per year plus paid Bank Holidays.

Key responsibilities

• Support the client’s project work in administering the SQL database environment.
• Assist with moving databases away from servers that are no longer supported.
• Handle database upgrade and consolidation initiatives.
• Administer database access and security controls.
• Carry out ad hoc database backups and restores when needed.
• Investigate and fix database connectivity problems.
• Install, upgrade, migrate and configure SQL Server environments.
• Apply service packs and cumulative updates to database software as required.
• Track and manage storage resources used by databases.
• Oversee maintenance plans covering backups, index rebuilds/defragmentation and statistics updates.

Deliverables

• Complete health-check reviews of the SQL database estate across the relevant regions.
• Identify SQL Servers and databases in scope.
• Document configurations, versions, dependencies and backup availability.
• Test that databases can be restored successfully from backups.
• Assess storage and configuration needs.
• Move databases to new locations within National Data Centres.
• Set up new SQL Servers and SQL Server instances.
• Apply the latest patches and updates.
• Transfer databases to the new environment.
• Prepare rollback plans.

Post-migration activities

• Continue monitoring the expanded SQL database estate.
• Refresh and maintain all relevant documentation.
• Retire redundant SQL Servers from service.

Skills and experience required

• At least 2 years of hands-on SQL DBA experience.
• Proven background in configuring, managing and monitoring replicated SQL databases.
• Strong understanding of database security, backup and recovery, and performance monitoring practices.
• Ability to maintain business continuity through replication, backup and recovery processes.
• PowerShell scripting would be beneficial.
• Experience building stored procedures, views and functions.

Personal attributes

• Strong problem-solving, analytical and decision-making ability.
• Comfortable engaging professionally with key stakeholders.
• Able to deliver work within agreed timelines.
• Self-driven and willing to take ownership.
• Works well in a team and communicates effectively with others.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Very strong attention to detail.

Additional requirements

This role may require Garda Vetting and, where applicable, Foreign Police Clearance before the assignment can begin. The employer states that it is an equal opportunities organisation.