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- Tasks: Lead the migration of SQL Server environments and ensure performance and security.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on modernising SQL Server environments.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, supportive team, and immediate impact role.
- Why this job: Shape a critical SQL Server migration and enhance your technical skills.
- Qualifications: Proven SQL DBA migration experience and strong T-SQL skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and referral bonuses available.
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 2022 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.
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
Experience & Skills Required:
Essential
- Proven Microsoft SQL DBA migration experience
- Demonstrable SQL Server migration experience across mid-to-large environments
- Strong experience with the most common SQL Server versions (2016 / 2019 / 2022+)
- 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
Desirable
- Experience with SSIS, SSRS, or SSAS
- Exposure to Azure SQL or cloud-based SQL environments
- Knowledge of SQL monitoring tools (Redgate, SolarWinds, Idera, etc.)
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
They are looking to pay between £400 - £475 p/d. It is inside IR35 / on their payroll.
SQL Database Administrator / SQL DBA - 6 Month Contract in Manchester employer: Circle Group
Contact Detail:
Circle Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SQL Database Administrator / SQL DBA - 6 Month Contract in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the SQL community, attend meetups, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your SQL migration projects, performance tuning successes, and any cool scripts you've written. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common SQL DBA scenarios. Think about how you'd handle complex migrations or troubleshoot under pressure. Practising these responses will help you feel more confident when it’s time to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace SQL Database Administrator / SQL DBA - 6 Month Contract in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your SQL DBA migration experience and relevant skills. We want to see how your background aligns with the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
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. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of the SQL Server migration process.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Since this role requires strong problem-solving abilities, include examples in your application that demonstrate how you've tackled complex SQL Server issues in the past. We appreciate candidates who can think on their feet!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
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 around migration strategies and performance tuning. Be ready to discuss specific examples of past migrations you've led, including the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share instances where you've had to troubleshoot complex SQL Server issues under pressure. Highlight your thought process and the steps you took to resolve these problems, as this will demonstrate your ability to handle high-stress situations.
✨Understand Security and Compliance
Familiarise yourself with SQL Server security measures, including permissions and encryption. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure data integrity and compliance during migrations, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical concepts. Since you'll be collaborating with internal teams, showing that you can communicate effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
