Database Engineering Scientist

The Applied Research Laboratories at the University of Austin is seeking a Database Engineering Specialist. The candidate will be responsible for building, testing and maintaining database backends to include performance monitoring, troubleshooting, backup and optimization in an enterprise Linux environment., * Develop, deploy, and maintain complex databases tailored for analytic processing in production / operational environments. Includes monitoring and optimization of database performance to support user needs and managing database growth.

• Collaborate with development teams to define application requirements and provide guidance on database programming best practices. Support cross-functional development efforts that require specialized database access and integration.
• Ensure database security and data integrity through robust protection strategies and rigorous validation protocols. Document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all deployed database environments.
• Support other efforts related to development, integration and deployment of automated data processing capabilities supporting analytic use cases.
• Other related functions as assigned., The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length., Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Three years developing and maintaining complex PostgreSQL databases.
• Minimum of three years of experience developing and maintaining complex SQL-based databases. Ability to troubleshoot and fix database errors, analyze database performance and make performance improvement recommendations.
• Demonstrated strong proficiency in Linux administration
• Demonstrated strong proficiency in modern software development practices, including Git, CI/CD pipelines, and Infrastructure as Code.
• Must currently hold, or be able to obtain within the first six months of employment, a DoD 8140 compliant security certification (e.g., Security+).

Applicant must be comfortable learning and working with new technologies, be highly organized and capable of planning and coordinating multiple tasks and managing their time. The position will require attention to detail, effective problem-solving skills and excellent judgment. Ability to work independently with sensitive and confidential information, maintain a professional demeanor, work as a team member without daily supervision and effectively communicate with all groups of clients. Able to work under pressure and accept supervision. Regular and punctual attendance.

US Citizen: Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information at the level appropriate to the project requirements of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Ten or more years of experience developing and maintaining complex SQL-based databases. Experience managing databases and related infrastructure in the cloud.
• Two or more years of experience developing and maintaining complex PostgreSQL databases. Experience managing databases and related infrastructure in the cloud.
• Strong proficiency in modern cloud infrastructure (e.g., AWS, RDS, and IAM).
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0., A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position., * E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF]
• Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF]
• Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

UT Austin offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

• 100% employer-paid basic medical coverage
• Retirement contributions
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid holidays, * Standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of manual dexterity
• Some weekend, evening and holiday work
• Possible interstate/intrastate travel

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest
• Unofficial college transcript

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.