Junior SQL DBA

ZealHR; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A small IT Services Company is looking for a driven Junior Database Administrator / Report SQL Writer based in South Africa. Candidates will assist with database management and SQL reporting, focusing on PostgreSQL and SQL Server. The ideal applicant should have 1-2 years of experience, strong SQL skills, and a detail-oriented mindset. This position provides excellent learning opportunities and collaboration with experts in the field, including diverse database environments and client systems.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in database administration or SQL development.
• Strong proficiency in writing and optimising SQL queries.
• Understanding of database concepts like indexing and data integrity.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and optimize client database environments.
• Write, optimise and maintain SQL queries and reports.
• Support database backups and monitoring processes.

Skills

SQL query writing and optimization

Database management (PostgreSQL, SQL Server)

Time management

Analytical problem-solving

Attention to detail

Tools

PostgreSQL

Microsoft SQL Server

pgAdmin

Power BI

Job description

Position: Junior Database Administrator / Report SQL Writer

Salary: R20K – R30K CTC Per Month (slightly neg)

Location: Pretoria (but happy to consider remote for someone in a different province)

Reports to: The DBA / Infrastructure lead.

Role Overview:

Our client is a small IT Services Company seeking a motivated Junior Database Administrator / Report SQL Writer to join their data team. The successful candidate will assist in managing and improving a range of client database environments, while supporting business operations through accurate and efficient SQL reporting. This position is ideal for someone with 1–2 years of database experience who is ready to take on greater responsibility in a fast-paced, high-demand environment with multiple priorities and requests.

Key Responsibilities:

• Database Management & Maintenance:
  • Assist in maintaining and optimizing the various client database environments, including but not limited to PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, MariaDB, and MongoDB.
  • Support database backups, restores, and monitoring processes across multiple clients.
  • Help troubleshoot performance issues and contribute to performance tuning and optimization.
• SQL Development & Reporting:
  • Write, optimise, and maintain SQL queries, stored procedures, and views for business reports and analytics.
  • Develop and maintain data extracts, dashboards, and reports for internal and client use.
  • Ensure data integrity, consistency, and accuracy across all reporting outputs.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Identify and implement opportunities to improve database performance, efficiency, and scalability.
  • Contribute to documentation, automation, and process standardisation across client environments.
  • Keep up to date with best practices and emerging tools in database administration and reporting.
• Collaboration & Support:
  • Work closely with senior database administrators and analysts to support client projects and data initiatives.
  • Provide technical support for database and reporting queries from both internal and external stakeholders.
  • Manage multiple incoming requests and priorities, maintaining clear communication and timely delivery under pressure.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Required:
  • 1–2 years of experience in database administration, SQL development, or data analysis.
  • Strong proficiency in writing and optimising SQL queries (PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, or similar).
  • Understanding of database concepts such as indexing, normalisation, and data integrity.
  • Excellent time management and ability to perform effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
  • High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Advantageous:
  • Basic knowledge of Python for data scripting or automation.
  • Familiarity with database monitoring and reporting tools (e.g., pgAdmin, Metabase, Power BI, etc.).

Soft Skills:

• Analytical and problem-solving mindset.
• Strong organisational and prioritisation abilities.
• Eagerness to learn and grow within a data-focused environment.
• Clear and professional communication skills.
• Team-oriented with a proactive approach to challenges.

Growth & Learning Opportunities:

This role offers excellent scope for professional growth and technical development. You will gain exposure to a wide variety of database environments and client systems, from small businesses to large enterprise clients, providing rich learning opportunities across diverse technologies.

• Learn and work within system administration environments.
• Gain exposure to Microsoft 365 administration and related tools.
• Build skills across multiple database technologies, data automation, and reporting platforms.
• Receive hands‑on mentorship and guidance from experienced database professionals.