Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development and optimisation of SQL databases, ensuring high availability and performance.
- Company: Join a respected organisation in Sunderland with a strong IT team and innovative projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy a salary up to £55,000, flexible working, 31 days leave, and health cash plans.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative culture that values your input and offers impactful work.
- Qualifications: Solid SQL Server experience, T-SQL proficiency, and familiarity with ETL tools required.
- Other info: Role includes hybrid working and is subject to a basic DBS check.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 66000 £ per year.
Job Description
Senior SQL Database AdministratorLocation: Hybrid – Sunderland (with flexible working)Salary: Up to £55,000 + excellent benefits
We're working with a respected organisation in Sunderland to recruit a Senior SQL Database Administrator. This is a fantastic opportunity to join an experienced IT team and take a lead role in the ongoing development, optimisation, and resilience of the organisation's database environment.
You'll be responsible for maintaining high availability, supporting integrations across platforms, and ensuring the reliability and performance of systems critical to business operations.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Configure and manage high availability and disaster recovery solutions including Always On Availability Groups, mirroring, and clustering.
-
Implement and test backup and recovery procedures to safeguard data.
-
Monitor performance metrics and carry out tuning and optimisation as required.
-
Support development and integration efforts across cloud and on-prem environments.
-
Use version control tools (e.g. GitHub, Bitbucket) to manage database scripts and schema changes.
-
Maintain comprehensive technical documentation and system records.
-
Collaborate with software developers, analysts, and other teams to deliver scalable and secure database services.
-
Provide 2nd/3rd line support and investigate root causes of system issues.
What We're Looking For:
-
Solid experience in SQL Server database administration.
-
Strong understanding of high availability, backup, and recovery strategies.
-
Proficient in writing and troubleshooting T-SQL.
-
Experience with ETL tools (e.g. SSIS, Azure Data Factory, Informatica, Talend).
-
Familiarity with version control and collaborative working in a support or project setting.
-
Strong communication skills and a methodical, team-focused approach.
Desirable (but not essential):
-
Experience with open-source RDBMS (PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB).
-
Familiarity with Redgate tools (SQL Toolbelt, Backup Pro, SQL Monitor).
Benefits:
-
Up to £55,000 salary depending on experience
-
31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to buy more
-
Flexible and hybrid working, including early Friday finishes
-
Health Cash Plan – cashback on optical, dental, therapies, and more (includes free child cover)
-
Access to private healthcare through the plan
-
Generous pension scheme – up to 10% employer contribution
-
Salary sacrifice scheme for electric vehicles
-
Enhanced parental and family leave
-
Business mileage allowance
-
Life assurance (3x salary)
Please note: This role is subject to a basic DBS check, funded by the employer.
Randstad Technologies Ltd is a leading specialist recruitment business for the IT & Engineering industries. Please note that due to a high level of applications, we can only respond to applicants whose skills & qualifications are suitable for this position. No terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010. For the purposes of the Conduct Regulations 2003, when advertising permanent vacancies we are acting as an Employment Agency, and when advertising temporary/contract vacancies we are acting as an Employment Business.
Senior SQL DBA - Sunderland employer: Randstad Technologies
Contact Detail:
Randstad Technologies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior SQL DBA - Sunderland
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Always On Availability Groups and T-SQL. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience with these tools during an interview will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the organisation. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach and questions during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-world scenarios where you've implemented high availability and disaster recovery solutions. Sharing specific examples will showcase your problem-solving skills and practical knowledge, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in SQL database administration. Being knowledgeable about recent developments can give you an edge in discussions and show your commitment to continuous learning in the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior SQL DBA - Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in SQL Server database administration, particularly focusing on high availability, backup, and recovery strategies. Use specific examples that demonstrate your proficiency in T-SQL and any relevant ETL tools you've worked with.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention how your skills align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description, such as managing high availability solutions and collaborating with development teams.
Showcase Technical Skills: When detailing your technical skills, be specific about your experience with version control tools like GitHub or Bitbucket. Highlight any familiarity with open-source RDBMS or Redgate tools, as these are desirable skills for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Technologies
✨Showcase Your SQL Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with SQL Server database administration in detail. Highlight specific projects where you configured high availability solutions or implemented backup and recovery procedures, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Expect questions that assess your ability to troubleshoot and optimise database performance. Prepare examples of past challenges you've faced and how you resolved them, particularly in relation to T-SQL and system issues.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools
Since the job mentions version control tools like GitHub and Redgate tools, make sure you can discuss your experience with these. If you're familiar with ETL tools, be ready to explain how you've used them in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
The role requires collaboration with various teams, so be ready to talk about your communication skills and how you've worked effectively in a team setting. Share examples of successful collaborations that led to improved database services.
