> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4553177-sql-dba-dv](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4553177-sql-dba-dv). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # SQL DBA (DV - **Company:** LA International - **Location:** Reading, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** £187,200.0 - £208,000.0 - **Contract:** Temporary contract - **Skills:** Sql Server Data Tools (SSDT), Active Directory, Microsoft Azure, Cluster Analysis, Profiling, Databases, Database Security, Linux, DevOps, Domain Name System (DNS), Failover, Failover Clustering, Kerberos (Protocol), PostgreSQL, Log Shipping, System Center Operations Management, Microsoft SQL Server, SQL Azure, System Center Configuration Manager, Windows Servers, MySQL, Oracle (Applications), Performance Tuning, Windows PowerShell, Quorum, Microsoft SharePoint, SQL Stored Procedures, SQL Databases, SQL Server Reporting Services, SQL Server Integration Services, SQL Server Analysis Services, Transact-SQL, Scripting, Cyberark, Git, SC Clearance, Information Technology, SolarWinds (Software), Database Mirroring, Redgate, CIS Benchmarks, Firewall Services Module, Vmware - **Published:** November 4, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.lainternational.com/careers/sql-dba-dv-united-kingdom-azy-151581_1793710571-29159?navigation=true ## About the Role * Proven second- or third-line SQL Server DBA experience in business-critical production environments, typically 5+ years, including at least 3 in a dedicated DBA role. * Supporting a mixed estate of legacy and current SQL Server versions (e.g. 2012 to 2022) on Windows Server, including installation, patching, upgrades and migrations. * Strong hands-on SQL Server high-availability clustering, including Failover Cluster Instances (FCIs) on Windows Server Failover Clustering (WSFC), quorum and witness configuration, shared storage, cluster-aware patching, failover and troubleshooting. * Always On Availability Groups and legacy HA/DR technologies such as log shipping, database mirroring and replication. * Backup and recovery, including full, differential and log backups, point-in-time recovery and DR testing. * Performance tuning using legacy and current tools, including execution plans, indexing, wait statistics, DMVs, Profiler/Trace, Extended Events and Query Store. * Strong T-SQL skills, including queries, stored procedures and functions. * Database maintenance using maintenance plans and scripted solutions (e.g. Ola Hallengren), including DBCC CHECKDB, index and statistics maintenance, Agent jobs, capacity planning and TempDB. * Database security, including least-privilege access, Active Directory integration, TDE, SQL Server Audit and privileged access management (e.g. CyberArk). * Scripting and monitoring using PowerShell (including dbatools), T-SQL and tools such as SCOM, Redgate SQL Monitor or SolarWinds DPA. * Working knowledge of Windows Server, Active Directory and SQL connectivity (DNS, Kerberos/SPNs and firewall rules). * ITIL-based incident, problem and change management in a controlled environment. * Strong communication and customer-service skills, and the organisation to manage multiple priorities in a highly visible support role. * Eligibility to obtain a high level of UK Security Clearance. DESIRABLE SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS * SSIS, SSRS and SSAS, including migrating legacy packages and reports to current versions. * Managing risk on out-of-support SQL Server versions, including ESU and upgrade planning. * Supporting databases for SCCM/MECM, SCOM and SharePoint. * Azure SQL, Managed Instance or Azure Arc, to support future modernisation. * Other database platforms (e.g. Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL) and SQL Server on Linux. * VMware and EMC SAN storage, including SQL Server performance on virtual and shared- storage platforms. * Database DevOps and automation tools, such as Git, Azure DevOps, SSDT, Redgate, Ansibleor DSC. * Mentoring colleagues in diagnosing complex database issues. * Security hardening (e.g. CIS Benchmarks) and awareness of UK GDPR obligations. * Experience in defence, government or other secure, restricted-network environments. * Degree in Computer Science or a related discipline, or equivalent experience. * Certifications such as DP-300, legacy MCSA/MCSE (SQL Server) and ITIL Foundation. ## Description Our client is a global systems integrator who requires an experienced Senior SQL Server Database Administrator for a customer based near to Reading.