Database Administrator Apprentice

Aviva Plc; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK-based insurance company in Manchester is seeking a Database Administrator to support database solutions using Oracle and SQL Server. The ideal candidate will have strong problem-solving skills, experience with databases, and STEM qualifications. This full-time role offers a supportive environment and benefits including a defined contribution pension scheme, well-being support, and opportunities for learning and development.

Benefits

30 days annual leave with buy/sell options

15% employer contribution pension scheme

Life assurance and income protection cover

Private medical insurance with Vitality Health

Flexible working opportunities

Qualifications

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential.
• Must demonstrate high IT literacy and experience with databases.
• Logical problem-solving approach is critical.

Responsibilities

• Complete DBA tasks and provide operational database support.
• Administer Oracle and SQL Server databases.
• Support backup and restore procedures for data recovery.
• Participate in projects providing technical input.
• Produce technical documentation for effective systems use.

Skills

Problem-solving

Verbal communication

Written communication

Interpersonal skills

Time management

IT literacy

Database experience

Programming languages (SQL, Python)

Education

Level 3 qualifications in STEM subjects

Job description

Overview

About the role: Working within the IS Strategy & Data team, the Database Administrator is a technical role responsible for supporting end to end database solutions across various platforms to an increasing number of customers inside and outside of the organisation. You will be required to build a substantial knowledge of GMC processes, systems and data as a DBA working within IS, understand and manage complex technical solutions. You will work with colleagues on database solutions using a variety of platforms and tools, but predominantly Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server. PLEASE NOTE: Shortlisted candidates will need to be available on Friday 3rd October for an in-person assessment centre at our Manchester office.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for completing DBA tasks and supporting the operational service needed for database administration.
• To provide day to day administration and support for the Oracle and SQL Server databases including configuration, troubleshooting, tuning, monitoring, maintenance and housekeeping to ensure that the systems run efficiently.
• To support the backup and restore procedures to ensure data can be recovered as appropriate.
• To perform regular checks against Database and UNIX estate and resolve issues as required.
• To participate in projects providing technical input and support.
• To produce technical documentation for use within the department and user guides for the business to ensure the effective use of systems.
• To maintain confidentiality of data at all times and to conform with Data Protection
• To apply and manage the relevant diversity and equality policy and practice relevant to the role.
• To apply the relevant management systems, procedures and policies relating to risk management, health and safety, information security and business continuity.
• Any other reasonable duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Required skills

• Innovative and able to solve problems logically and methodically. Suggest improvements to individual, team and department processes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to enable liaison with a wide range of colleagues and external stakeholders, such as third-party contractors.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to deal with stakeholders in a polite, friendly, and calm manner.
• The ability to use their own initiative to prioritise their workload to accommodate sometimes conflicting and changing priorities without losing sight of the deadlines.
• Highly organised, reliable and meticulous, as is the requirement of all DBAs.
• Additionally, the following experience would be beneficial: High IT literacy. Experience working with databases. Familiarity with data or reporting. Experience with programming languages (e.g. SQL, Python).

Entry requirements

Standard entry requirements, Full-time employment in a relevant role. Level 3 qualifications in STEM subjects (e.g., 2 A Levels, BTEC Diplomas, Apprenticeship, or equivalent). Non-standard entry with work experience: Relevant qualifications and/or work experience will be considered for applicants with potential to benefit from the programme. You may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. If you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, you must provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications (UK ENIC website).

Working hours

Full time (37.5 hours Monday to Friday), part-time and flexible working options available. We will consider a range of flexible working options. Staff are in the office one day every fortnight on a set team schedule.

Benefits of working at the GMC

• Annual leave - 30 days a year. You can also buy and sell annual leave (max. 5 days or pro-rata if part-time).
• Defined contribution pension scheme - Aviva with 15% employer contribution.
• Wellbeing - flexible working opportunities, life assurance cover, income protection cover, private medical insurance with Vitality Health, employee assistance programme, cycle to work scheme, eyesight tests, hybrid working arrangements for most roles.
• Learning and development - courses, workshops, and online learning on topics from management to wellbeing.
• Other benefits - discounts scheme, season ticket loans.

Future prospects

90% of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing; this is 20% higher than the national average.

About QA

Our apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 50,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we are a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed. Interested? Apply now!