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- Tasks: Lead the migration of SQL Server environments and ensure performance and security.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Circle Recruitment in Cardiff.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, referral bonuses, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact by shaping a modernised SQL Server environment.
- Qualifications: Proven SQL DBA migration experience and strong T-SQL skills required.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with a supportive technical team and excellent career prospects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Looking for a highly skilled SQL Server Database Administrator with proven SQL DBA migration experience to lead the migration of an existing SQL Server environment into a new SQL Server estate. This is a critical position requiring deep technical experience, strong problem-solving ability, and the capacity to deliver effectively under time pressures. Looking for a start ASAP.
Experience & Skills Required:
- Essential
- Proven Microsoft SQL DBA migration experience, ideally from 2016 - 2022
- Demonstrable SQL Server migration experience across mid-to-large environments
- Strong experience with the most common SQL Server versions (2012 / 2016 / 2019+)
- Solid understanding of SQL Server security and access control, including permissions, encryption, and compliance requirements
- Strong T-SQL skills with the ability to write, optimise, and troubleshoot complex scripts
- Extensive performance tuning experience (execution plans, indexing, query optimisation, Query Store, Profiler)
- Strong experience with HA/DR solutions such as Always On, log shipping, clustering, and advanced backup/recovery
- Proven ability to troubleshoot complex SQL Server issues under pressure
- Confident communicator with the ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced project environment
- Experience with SSIS, SSRS, or SSAS
- Exposure to Azure SQL or cloud-based SQL environments
- Knowledge of SQL monitoring tools (Redgate, SolarWinds, Idera, etc.)
You will plan, execute, and optimise a full SQL Server migration while ensuring the performance, security, and stability of the environment throughout a 6-month transition period. Take full ownership of a business-critical SQL Server migration. Immediate, high-impact role with a supportive technical team. Opportunity to shape a modernised SQL Server environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the end-to-end migration of the current SQL Server estate into a new environment
- Analyse the existing database landscape and define a robust migration strategy
- Ensure high availability, minimal downtime, and strong data integrity throughout the process
- Conduct performance tuning, optimisation, and proactive troubleshooting
- Manage SQL Server security, access control, backups, and DR procedures
- Collaborate with internal technical teams to ensure smooth migration and risk mitigation
- Produce clear documentation and act as a subject-matter expert throughout the transition
Very competitive salary due to being an FTC role.
SQL Database Administrator - Cardiff employer: Circle Group
Contact Detail:
Circle Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SQL Database Administrator - Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the SQL community, attend local meetups, or join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your SQL projects, migrations, and any performance tuning you've done. This will give potential employers a clear view of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common SQL scenarios and problem-solving questions. Practice explaining your thought process clearly, as communication is key in fast-paced environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace SQL Database Administrator - Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your SQL DBA migration experience, especially from 2016 to 2022. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your T-SQL prowess and performance tuning expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention your experience with HA/DR solutions and any cloud-based SQL environments you've worked with. We love a good story!
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, highlight specific examples where you’ve successfully troubleshot complex SQL Server issues under pressure. We’re looking for someone who can keep their cool and deliver results, so let us know how you’ve done that in the past!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on our radar quickly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our supportive technical team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Circle Group
✨Know Your SQL Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your SQL skills, especially T-SQL. Be ready to discuss complex scripts you've written and how you've optimised them in the past. Practising performance tuning scenarios can really help you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Migration Experience
Prepare specific examples of your previous SQL Server migrations, particularly from versions 2016 to 2022. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities under pressure.
✨Understand Security and Compliance
Familiarise yourself with SQL Server security measures, including permissions and encryption. Be prepared to discuss how you've managed access control and compliance in your previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since this role requires collaboration with technical teams, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think about how you can explain complex concepts simply, as effective communication is key in a fast-paced project environment.