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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior Database Engineer - **Company:** Vitality - **Location:** Bournemouth, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Agile Methodology, Amazon Web Services, Backup Devices, Cloud Computing, Databases, Data Governance, Disaster Recovery, Information Lifecycle Management, Python (Programming Language), PostgreSQL, Linux System Administration, Query Optimization, Scripting, Cloud Platform System, Sql Optimization, System Availability, Database Optimization, Information Technology, Data Analytics - **Published:** May 16, 2026 - **Apply:** https://uk.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=a7ddffc240cd9e5e ## About the Role Do you have experience in Scripting?, * 9+ years' experience administering PostgreSQL in both on-premise and cloud environments * Proven hands-on experience with AWS (RDS/Aurora) and exposure to GCP (Cloud SQL or AlloyDB) * Strong experience working with large-scale, high-volume, multi-tenant database environments * Deep understanding of PostgreSQL architecture and database performance tuning * Advanced SQL skills, including query optimisation * Proficiency in scripting (e.g., Shell, Python) * Solid Linux administration experience * Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills * Experience working in Agile environments * Relevant degree or diploma in IT, Computer Science, or a related field ## Description Team - Group Operations Working Pattern - Hybrid - 2 days per week in the Vitality Sandton Office. Full time, 37.5 hours per week. We are happy to discuss flexible working! Top 3 skills needed for this role: * Strong SQL plus hands-on tuning of high-volume systems * Ability to run PostgreSQL reliably in managed services * Proficiency in Designing and testing HA/replication/backups/PITR to meet RTO/RPO What this role is all about: Step into a pivotal role at Vitality Group as a Senior Database Administrator, where you'll shape the backbone of high-performance, data-driven systems powering millions of interactions. This is an opportunity to work at scale across AWS and GCP, driving innovation in cloud-native database architecture while ensuring resilience, security, and seamless performance. You'll collaborate with a diverse team of engineers, architects, and analysts, using your deep PostgreSQL expertise to optimise complex, high-volume environments and lead initiatives that directly impact business outcomes. Key Actions * Design, implement, and manage PostgreSQL databases across development, testing, and production environments, ensuring alignment with enterprise standards and best practices * Maintain high availability, performance, and resilience through effective use of replication, backups, disaster recovery, and cloud-native solutions across AWS and GCP * Lead database performance tuning, identifying and resolving bottlenecks, optimising queries, schema design, and indexing strategies in high-volume environments * Oversee database deployments, upgrades, and schema changes with minimal disruption, while supporting capacity planning, storage optimisation, and data lifecycle management * Implement robust monitoring and observability practices, proactively managing database health and driving root cause analysis for production issues * Enforce data governance, security, and access controls, ensuring compliance with policies and protection of sensitive information * Collaborate closely with developers, data engineers, and architects to support system design, scalability, and performance improvements * Provide technical leadership and mentorship, contributing to architectural decisions and supporting operational readiness, including on-call support for critical incidents, Vitality South Africa plays a key role in the development and delivery of the shared-value insurance model within the Discovery Group. The team leads key strategic initiatives in the South African market, strengthens alignment across the organisation, and ensures the successful implementation of Vitality's health and wellness programmes. In addition, the team provides specialised expertise, cutting edge technology, behavioural science and health and wellness, drawing on both global innovation and local market insight. Roles within Vitality South Africa are dynamic and fast-paced. As such, we are seeking individuals who are adaptable, solutions-oriented, and capable of delivering high-quality, sustainable value in a complex and evolving environment. Employment Equity: The Company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. ## Related Videos - [Optimizing Discovery: PostgreSQL's Role in Transforming GetYourGuide's Search](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1647-optimizing-discovery-postgresql-s-role-in-transforming-getyourguide-s-search) - [Kubernetes and Microservices with Multi-Model Databases](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/382-kubernetes-and-microservices-with-multi-model-databases) - [JavaScript? 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