Database Administrator

NEXT plc; Leicester; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The NEXT plc Data Services team in Leicestershire is seeking a Database Administrator to ensure high availability, security, and performance of our data systems.

You will install, configure, and maintain SQL Server databases (including Azure cloud), balance operational support with project delivery, automate routine tasks, and participate in on-call support and incident response with cross-functional teams. Candidates should be proficient in T-SQL, NoSQL concepts, and modern DevOps practices.

Qualifications

• Experience with Microsoft SQL Server, including Azure cloud and T-SQL scripting.
• Familiarity with NoSQL databases and data security considerations.
• Experience in backups, disaster recovery planning, and on-call incident support.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, upgrade, and patch database systems (incl. cloud environments).
• Monitor performance, diagnose bottlenecks, and tune for efficiency.
• Develop and test backup and disaster recovery plans.

Skills

SQL Server

Azure

T-SQL

NoSQL databases

Python scripting

Security & governance

Automation

On-call support

Tools

MongoDB Atlas

Azure Cosmos DB

Job description

We're looking for a Database Administrator to join our Data Services team, based from the NEXT Head Office in Leicestershire!

The Role:

The Database Administrator (DBA) plays a key role in ensuring the high availability, security, integrity, and optimal performance of our organisation’s data systems.

In this role, you will oversee database installation, configuration, and maintenance while working closely with developers, IT colleagues, and wider business teams to deliver robust data solutions. You will balance core operational database support with proactive project delivery, automation, and cloud management.

What You’ll Take On:

• Database Management & Maintenance: Install, configure, upgrade, and patch database systems (including cloud environments), ensuring data consistency, accuracy, and storage optimisation.
• Performance Tuning: Monitor database health, identify bottlenecks, and implement effective tuning solutions to maintain peak efficiency and resource utilisation.
• Backup, Recovery & Disaster Planning: Develop, implement, and rigorously test backup and disaster recovery plans to safeguard sensitive data and minimise potential downtime.
• Security & Governance: Maintain strict database security measures, managing user access, permissions, encryption, and alignment with corporate change control processes.
• Automation & Cloud: Automate routine administration tasks using scripting languages (such as T-SQL or Python) to enhance operational efficiency.
• Incident Support & Collaboration: Provide technical guidance and support for end-users and developers, actively participating in problem resolution (including major incidents) and on-call rotation as required.
• Continuous Improvement: Contribute to database schema design, capacity planning, cost awareness, and the adoption of modern DevOps practices and tools.

What You’ll Bring:

• Technical Expertise: Solid experience with Microsoft SQL Server (including Azure Cloud), database scripting (e.g. T-SQL), and exposure to NoSQL databases (such as MongoDB Atlas or Azure Cosmos DB). Knowledge of IT security implications and security platforms is advantageous.
• Analytical Problem-Solving: A systematic, disciplined, and logical approach to troubleshooting, with the ability to identify root causes and deliver practical technical solutions.
• Operational Knowledge: Familiarity with core monitoring tools, management consoles, cloud services, storage platforms, and backup/recovery frameworks.
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with a collaborative mindset and a passion for working effectively within cross-functional IT teams.
• Self-Motivation & Delivery: Strong organisational and time-management skills, allowing you to manage your own workload, work under tight deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.
• Adaptability & Continuous Learning: A curious mindset with a strong motivation to expand your technical skills, learn new tools, and apply best-practice techniques to benefit the wider organisation.

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