At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and optimise high-performance database systems for our SaaS platform and client solutions.
- Company: Join Kennedys, a forward-thinking firm with a collaborative IT team in Manchester.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on continuous improvement and global technology needs.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by leading innovative database projects and mentoring junior engineers.
- Qualifications: Experience with Azure SQL, T-SQL, and strong data modelling skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Kennedys is looking for a Client Solutions Database Engineer to join our IT team, based in Manchester. The successful candidate will work as part of the Client Solutions sub‑team, collaborating closely with wider IT and Business Services teams to design, optimise and maintain high‑performance database systems that support our core SaaS platform, reporting environments and client billing solutions. This is a hybrid role combining architectural leadership with hands‑on engineering. You will act as the technical authority for our database ecosystem-setting standards, driving best practice, and solving complex challenges-while also writing advanced SQL, building prototypes and guiding junior engineers.
Team Kennedys' IT team is responsible for delivering a responsive, effective and timely IT service to the firm's employees and clients. The team designs and implements operational processes to ensure our systems remain reliable, secure and highly available. You will join a collaborative group committed to continuous improvement and supporting the firm's global technology needs.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the design and optimisation of scalable, high‑performance database architectures across our SaaS platform, reporting environments and client billing systems.
- Govern and enhance the stored procedure estate, reusable scripts and development standards across the engineering team.
- Produce clear, accessible documentation for data models, data dictionaries and architectural decisions.
- Drive technical projects with strong momentum, providing proactive updates and ensuring timely delivery.
- Mentor and upskill junior team members, fostering a collaborative, learning‑focused engineering culture.
- Extensive experience with modern Azure SQL services and designing complex, high‑performance relational databases.
- Strong data modelling skills across both OLTP (SaaS) and OLAP (reporting/analytics) environments.
- Proven expertise in performance tuning, scaling, security and cost optimisation.
- Hands‑on experience with backups, integrity checks, index maintenance and troubleshooting using blocking, caching and wait statistics.
- Advanced proficiency in T‑SQL, stored procedures, functions and custom integrations.
- Experience designing and orchestrating ETL/ELT pipelines using tools such as dbt or Azure Data Factory.
- Strong background in technical code reviews and mentoring junior engineers.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work autonomously and document technical decisions clearly.
- Experience designing Power BI‑optimised data models and writing performant DAX.
- Strong understanding of how database architecture impacts BI performance and reporting pipelines.
*where a level of experience is indicated, this is a guideline only and represents the amount of time we would normally expect a candidate to accumulate the requisite level of experience. This does not preclude applications from candidates with more or less experience.
Client Solutions Database Engineer in Manchester employer: Kennedys Law LLP
At Kennedys, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Manchester where innovation and collaboration thrive. Our IT team is dedicated to continuous improvement, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and mentorship, particularly for junior engineers. With a strong focus on work-life balance and a commitment to delivering high-performance solutions, Kennedys stands out as a rewarding place to advance your career in technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Client Solutions Database Engineer in Manchester
✨Tap into Local Tech Meetups
Get yourself to local tech meetups or database management conferences. It's a really great way to meet industry professionals and potentially uncover unadvertised full-time roles. When chatting with people, mention your skills and interests in database management; you never know who might be looking for someone just like you!
✨Contribute to Open Source Projects
Diving into open-source projects can not only sharpen your database skills but also get you noticed by employers. Many companies look for candidates who actively contribute to projects – it shows initiative and a real passion for the field. Plus, it's a perfect excuse to connect with other developers and expand your professional network.
✨Utilise Professional Bodies
Sign up for professional bodies related to database management, like the British Computer Society. They often host events and networking opportunities that can lead directly to job openings in the full-time market. Plus, it adds a nice touch to your professional profile!
✨Showcase Your Skills in a Public Portfolio
As you’re on the hunt for that full-time role, make sure to have a public portfolio that displays your best database projects. This can easily set you apart from the competition. And when you apply for roles, definitely mention it – it shows employers you mean business and are proud of your work!
We think you need these skills to ace Client Solutions Database Engineer in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your database skills:When applying for a full-time role in database management, it’s super important to highlight your skills with specific database technologies like SQL, NoSQL, or any relevant data visualisation tools. We want to see how you've used these tools in real projects, so don't shy away from detailing your hands-on experience!
Tailor your CV for data:Make sure your CV is structured clearly, focusing on your previous experience in database management. Use specific metrics to demonstrate your impact, like how you improved data retrieval times or reduced errors. This isn't just about what you've done; it’s about what you’ve achieved with your skills!
Craft a compelling cover letter:In your cover letter, share what excites you about database management and how you can contribute to Kennedys Law LLP. Mention any relevant projects where you tackled challenges or implemented new solutions. Let us know why you want to join our team and how your passion aligns with our goals.
Document your projects:If you've worked on interesting database projects—maybe during your studies or in previous roles—be sure to include those in your application. If you can, link to a portfolio or GitHub repo where we can see examples of your work. Having a tangible showcase of your skills will really make your application stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kennedys Law LLP
✨Brush Up on Database Tools
Make sure you're well-versed with popular database management systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB. Incorporating real-world examples of how you've used these tools in past projects will show that you can put theory into practice, which is something Kennedys Law LLP will definitely appreciate.
✨Know Your SQL Inside Out
Get ready for some technical questions focused on SQL queries and database design. We should anticipate coding challenges where you might need to optimise queries or design a database schema on the spot. Practising these problems will build our confidence to impress in the interview.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Besides just technical know-how, be prepared to answer scenario-based questions that test your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Think about how you would approach data integrity issues or handle performance bottlenecks — Kennedys Law LLP will want to see your analytical side!
✨Show Your Collaboration Spirit
Since this is a full-time role, it's crucial to highlight how you've collaborated with cross-functional teams or contributed to team projects in the past. Emphasising our interpersonal skills will demonstrate that you’re not just a tech wizard, but also a team player who fits well with Kennedys Law LLP's culture.
