Intermediate DBA

Role overview

We are looking for an Intermediate Database Administrator to support and improve Microsoft SQL Server environments in Durban. The role centers on database design, performance tuning, availability, troubleshooting, and collaboration with wider technical teams to keep systems stable, efficient, and aligned to application needs.

Core capabilities

• Strong time management and clear communication are essential for success in this position.
• Advanced SQL query writing is needed to support day-to-day database work and optimization tasks.
• You should be able to tune and improve different parts of MSSQL environments.
• Hands-on experience with database management and database design is required.

Key responsibilities

• Design database structures that are resilient, scalable, and able to run efficiently.
• Work closely with other DBAs to ensure solutions meet application demands and performance targets.
• Contribute actively to planning sessions, documentation, and testing activities.
• Improve stored procedures and other database components to enhance performance.
• Support rollback planning and disaster recovery readiness.
• Help maintain high database availability for a public-facing web front end.
• Contribute to a long-term data warehousing approach built on SQL Server 2016 Enterprise.
• Maintain and support existing products while also assisting with updates.
• Track database performance, apply patches, and manage version upgrades when needed.
• Use tools and scripts to monitor compute, storage, networking, and overall database health.
• Promote operational processes that support throughput, response times, efficient resource use, and capacity goals.
• Apply a strong understanding of large-scale data handling methods.
• Use fast recovery methods and back up data securely.
• Investigate, diagnose, and resolve database-related issues and errors.
• Create and maintain reports, visual dashboards, and visualizations for database monitoring and insights.
• Recommend and help implement modern database technologies and practices.
• Take ownership of problem resolution, including after-hours support when necessary.
• Show initiative by learning new tools, skills, and approaches and applying them in daily work.
• Follow industry best practices in tools, technologies, and processes.
• Share knowledge with the team through coaching, mentoring, and collaborative sessions.
• Support junior team members and help them build their database skills.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to improve database solutions and outcomes.

Qualifications and experience

• A completed BSc in Computer Science or a National Diploma in IT is required.
• 3 to 5 years of commercial experience is needed.
• 3 to 5 years of experience working with MSSQL across all aspects is required.
• Experience in designing and optimizing MSSQL databases is expected.
• Advanced SQL knowledge and query writing ability are required.
• Strong understanding of high database availability is important.
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate is an advantage.

Additional notes

The role may require working after hours to help resolve urgent database issues and maintain service continuity.