Senior Database Administrator

Database Migration and Administrator Specialist – London – 3 month extendable contract

We are looking for a Cloud Database Administrator, Architect & Transition Engineer, you will play a key role in architecting, administering, and executing database migration initiatives. You will be responsible for ensuring seamless transitions to our new cloud ecosystem, building environments, and leveraging IaC tools such as Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions to automate deployments and management processes.

Migration Expertise:

• Plan, design, and oversee the migration of hundreds of databases to the cloud platform.
• Provide best practices for database architecture, transition strategies, and performance optimization.
• Ensure minimal disruption to business operations during migration activities.

Cloud Database Administration:

• Manage, monitor, and maintain databases within the cloud environment.
• Update legacy versions of SQL databases, ensuring compatibility with modern technologies and standards.
• Administer and manage Windows-based SQL environments across development, test, UAT, and production environments using SQL Standard and Enterprise editions.
• Create and implement comprehensive plans to update and migrate legacy databases.
• Collaborate with teams to resolve challenges involving legacy applications and their database dependencies.

Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC):

• Design and deploy IaC solutions to automate database provisioning, scaling, and management.
• Collaborate with DevOps teams to integrate databases within CI/CD pipelines using Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions.
• Ensure version control, configuration management, and continuous delivery practices are adhered to.

Collaboration & Leadership:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including development, infrastructure, and security, to ensure alignment on migration goals.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to teams involved in database architecture and deployment.
• Conduct training sessions and document processes to ensure knowledge transfer across the organization.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven expertise in cloud database administration and architecture (e.g., Azure SQL, PostgreSQL, etc.).
• Strong understanding of HA solutions and disaster recovery strategies.
• Experience in managing Windows-based SQL environments across development, test, UAT, and production stages.
• Hands-on experience with Infrastructure-as-Code tools (Terraform, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions).
• Proficiency in database migration techniques and tools, including updating legacy SQL versions.
• Solid understanding of CI/CD pipelines, automation, and DevOps practices.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and team collaboration skills.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Certifications in cloud technologies (e.g., Microsoft Azure Database Administrator, Cloud Solutions Architect).
• Experience with large-scale migration projects in regulated industries like insurance or finance.
• Familiarity with data security standards and compliance regulations.