At a Glance
- Tasks: Modernise legacy databases and design high-performance SQL Server architectures.
- Company: Join a thriving tech company in Wigan with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising data systems and supporting innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Experience with SQL Server, ETL processes, and database management skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 depending on experience.
Technology: SQL, ETL, SQL Server
Location: Wigan
Working Pattern: Hybrid - 3 days a week in the office.
The Role:
In the short term, the successful candidate will take ownership of modernising legacy application databases. This will involve designing and implementing scalable, high-performance database architectures to replace existing MySQL backends supporting application services. They will lead the migration of data from legacy platforms into new Microsoft SQL Server environments, ensuring data integrity, optimal performance and minimal disruption to live systems.
The role will also be responsible for configuring SQL Server security and access controls, including the creation and management of developer roles and permissions to support application connectivity and deployment.
Over time, the focus will shift to the ongoing operational health of the database estate. This includes improving scalability and efficiency through indexing strategies, performance tuning, and the implementation of data archiving and lifecycle management processes. The candidate will proactively monitor SQL Server performance, identify bottlenecks or conflicting workloads, and resolve issues to ensure reliable and efficient data access as application usage grows. In parallel, they will continue to deliver database environments that support both analyst and developer workflows.
Please note: this is not a remote position, it is hybrid in the office - the first week would be full-time in the office to get to know the team and processes.
Responsibilities:
- You will play a key role in maintaining and evolving our Microsoft SQL Server-based environment, supporting data migrations, building and optimizing ETL processes, and ensuring data is reliable, secure, and performant for downstream analytics, software and reporting.
- Lead and support database migrations, upgrades, and schema changes with minimal downtime.
- Design, build, and maintain robust ETL/ELT pipelines to ingest, transform, and load data from multiple sources.
- Perform database maintenance activities, including restores, indexing, patching, monitoring, replication, migrations, and performance tuning.
- Maintain and Support SSRS reporting solutions and infrastructure.
- Maintain and Support Power BI datasets, gateways, refresh schedules, and security models.
- Document data flows, schemas, transformations, and operational processes.
- Collaborate with engineering and product teams to support evolving data requirements.
Requirements:
- SQL Server
- T-SQL
- DBA Skills
- Power BI
- ETL (SSIS or other, such as Airflow)
- MySQL would be useful but certainly not essential.
Please note: this role does not offer sponsorship.
Database Engineer employer: Oscar Associates (UK) Limited
At Oscar Associates, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Located in Wigan, our hybrid working model allows for flexibility while ensuring team cohesion, with opportunities for professional growth through hands-on experience in modernising database systems. Join us to be part of a thriving environment where your contributions are valued and you can make a meaningful impact on our data-driven projects.
Contact Details:
Oscar Associates (UK) Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Database Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend meetups, and connect with potential colleagues on 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
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company, understand their tech stack, and be ready to discuss how your skills in SQL, ETL, and database management can help them modernise their systems. Practice common interview questions to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! If you've worked on any relevant database projects, whether personal or professional, make sure to highlight them. Create a portfolio or GitHub repository to demonstrate your skills in action.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from candidates who are excited about joining us. It shows initiative and enthusiasm, which are always a plus in our books!
We think you need these skills to ace Database Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with SQL Server, ETL processes, and any relevant database migrations. We want to see how your skills align with the role, 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 excited about the Database Engineer role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the position.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, mention specific examples where you've tackled database performance issues or led migrations. We’re looking for candidates who can think critically and resolve challenges effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oscar Associates (UK) Limited
✨Know Your SQL Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your SQL skills before the interview. Be prepared to discuss your experience with SQL Server, T-SQL, and any ETL processes you've worked on. They might ask you to solve a problem on the spot, so practice some common SQL queries and database design principles.
✨Showcase Your Migration Experience
Since the role involves migrating data from legacy systems, be ready to talk about any past experiences you've had with database migrations. Highlight specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, especially regarding data integrity and performance during the transition.
✨Understand the Role of Performance Tuning
Familiarise yourself with performance tuning techniques for SQL Server. Be prepared to discuss indexing strategies and how you've improved database efficiency in previous roles. They’ll want to know how you can proactively monitor and resolve performance issues.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
This position requires working closely with engineering and product teams. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others to meet evolving data requirements. Emphasise your communication skills and how you can bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders.