Database Administrator

We’re seeking a talented and enthusiastic Database Administrator (DBA) with Oracle and/or Microsoft SQL Server (MS SQL) database support experience, to come and join us at the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO). 

This is an exciting opportunity to join us as a DBA and develop your DBA skills. We have on-premise MS SQL and Oracle databases and our strategy is to move towards cloud database platforms, which is currently predominantly Azure SQL Managed Instance. If you currently don’t have experience in all the database technologies that we use, you will be given the opportunity to develop your skills in the areas that are lacking. You will have the chance to conceptualise, plan, set up and provide hands-on support of all databases within the UKHO. 

At UKHO flexible working is our default: we balance the freedom to choose how we work with our responsibility to meet business need. You will benefit from amazing career development opportunities, great company benefits package and a friendly, collaborative and supportive working environment. 

Please note that as your role of Database Administrator, you will be required to obtain a DV clearance. Therefore, in the event of a future DV application being rejected, your employment with UKHO would be terminated providing a 3 months notice period. Please note that to obtain DV Clearance you must be a Sole British National.

This is a varied and interesting role where you will deliver an excellent user experience. Through developing, improving and maintaining the UKHO’s database estate, this role will support our key internal products and services and commercial product portfolio which are critical to the operations of UKHO. 

Working within the Enterprise Applications team you will work with the Enterprise Applications Team Manager and other colleagues to manage the delivery of database services to our customers. 

High level responsibilities of the role include (but are not limited to): 

• Providing support and system administration tasks for all database environments across development (test and live), encompassing on premise and cloud platforms.
• Using and developing strong Oracle and MS SQL database skills to support UKHO systems and services Investigating, diagnosing and resolving complex and sometimes high risk problems
• Analysing issues, evaluating options and providing long-term and proactive fixes, escalating when necessary
• Using and developing Windows Server system admin skills to help support the database infrastructure
• Providing technical input into projects; designing and building the most appropriate systems regarding database security, resilience, and functionality
• Defining and maintaining system documentation, i.e., standards, security orders, procedures, configuration information, taking helpdesk calls and ensuring that less experienced staff are instructed in their use
• Ensuring business continuity of our database platforms, managing back-ups, restoration and replication  Implementing UKHO policies to ensure the security, integrity and resilience of the databases to provide database services in accordance with the relevant SLAs
• Working with development, configuration, tech support and 3rd party teams, building strong stakeholder relationships and continuously looking for opportunities to implement improvements to build standards, automation and support processes. 
• In addition you will ensure the reliability and efficiency of our database service. 

You will also have the opportunity to support in a wide range of projects as a subject matter expert including the development of complex SQL and tuning in of DML code and collaboration with other technical teams and leadership with database operations and standards, data security guidelines, controls and the set up and maintenance of database platforms.

• You should be proficient in at least one database platform, specifically Oracle or Microsoft SQL Server with recent experience gained over at least 2 years.
• You should have experience or an interest in building and supporting cloud-based database platforms, ideally Microsoft Azure.
• You will have good Windows server skills and general IT experience, gained over at least 2 years.
• You should also need to show a willingness to develop skills in the other technology, if you don’t currently have experience in both.
• You will need to be a team player, self-motivated, with a positive and pro-active approach to the challenges that the post demands. You must be focused on the timely delivery of solutions to support the UKHO business needs.

At the UK Hydrographic Office, it's very important to us that our people feel valued.   We offer a huge range of benefits such as training and development, well-being support, flexible/ homeworking, a fantastic state of the art building, high spec equipment, and so much more.   See our attached Candidate Information Pack for more details.

Please submit your application through Civil Service Jobs. You will be short-listed against set criteria.

Please read all criteria in detail and tailor your application to these requirements.