SQL & Database Practitioner

Transnet Company; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A logistics and transport company in Durban is seeking a SQL Database Practitioner to provide critical support to database management. In this role, you will assist with ensuring the integrity and security of databases, monitor performance, and execute backup tasks. The ideal candidate should have relevant IT qualifications and 3-5 years of experience in database administration. Opportunities for skill development are included. Preference will be given to applicants from designated groups according to the company's employment equity goals.

Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years of applicable database administrator related experience.
• Experience supporting and working with cross‑functional teams in a dynamic environment.
• Minimum 8 years’ database administrator related experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide support to the SQL Database Administrator and System Administrators.
• Monitor database performance and alert the SQL Database Administrator of any issues.
• Assist in executing backup and recovery procedures.

Skills

Structured Query Language (SQL)

Relational Database Management System (RDBMS)

Microsoft SQL Server

Performance tuning and optimization

Communication

Problem Solving

Change management

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Information Technology/Computer Science (NQF 6)

SQL Server related certification

Microsoft related certification

NQF Level 5 certificate (120 credits)

Tools

SQL Server Management Studio

Job description

Job Details

• Operating Division: TPT POD Corporate H/O
• Employee Group: Permanent
• Department: TPT, ICT, DBN
• Location: Durban
• Reporting To: Navis Service Delivery Manager
• Grade: G
• Reference: req4389
• Closing Date: 25/02/2026

Position Purpose

Transnet SOC operates 9 of its Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) marine terminals and 9 of its Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) inland terminals using Navis N4 as its Terminal Operating System (TOS). End users of the TOS include internal employees and external customers from all over South Africa. The TOS is used in a 24/7 environment for planning and operational execution. The TOS team is based at TPT’s Head Office in Durban and reports to the Navis Service Delivery Manager. The SQL & Database Practitioner is responsible for providing support to the SQL Database Administrator and System Administrators / Developers for all the organization’s new and existing SQL databases. The individual plays a crucial role in carrying out scheduled and ad‑hoc database‑related tasks which include querying and extraction of data.

Position Outputs

Administration

• Develop and maintain technical and implementation plans.
• Update technical documentation on a regular basis to ensure it is current and up to date.
• Maintain technical configurations in accordance with related policies and procedures.
• Record time allocation per task for project management and capitalization purposes.
• Ensure all database change and release‑management tasks are completed in accordance with the policies and procedures. Contribute and manage database‑related changes through its lifecycle.
• Contribute to the knowledge base for database administration staff.
• Create end‑user‑friendly documentation that adheres to standard operating procedures (SOP) and best practices.
• Create and maintain high‑level activity plans with scheduling timelines for project tasks and activities.
• Participate in planning sessions to gather and develop database requirements.
• Participate in business and technical discussions related to database solutions.
• Formulate reports of project technical activities.
• Ensure that all pertinent documentation is kept up to date.

Technical Support

• Database Monitoring – Monitor database performance and alert the SQL Database Administrator of any issues. Assist in identifying and troubleshooting database performance bottlenecks.
• Backup and Recovery Assistance – Assist in executing backup and recovery procedures under the guidance of the SQL Database Administrator. Participate in backup and recovery testing procedures.
• Security Management Support – Assist in managing database security, including user access control and data encryption. Help identify and report database security issues.
• Documentation and Reporting Assistance – Support in maintaining documentation of database configurations, procedures, and standards. Assist in generating reports on database performance and usage. Action requests for data‑related queries and extraction.

Database Maintenance Support

• Assist in performing routine maintenance tasks such as updating software and applying patches.
• Support in ensuring data stored in the database is accurate, consistent, and compliant with regulatory requirements.

Database Issue Diagnosis

• Help diagnose database issues and escalate to the SQL Database Administrator as needed.
• Assist in identifying root causes and tracking solutions to prevent recurrence.

Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with the SQL Database Administrator and other team members to ensure database solutions meet the organization’s needs.
• Participate in planning and brainstorming sessions to gather and develop database requirements.

Skill Development

• Participate in training and development opportunities to enhance database administration skills.
• Stay updated with the latest technologies and best practices in database administration.

Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Information Technology/Computer Science (NQF 6).
• 3 to 5 years of applicable database administrator related experience.
• Experience supporting and working with cross‑functional teams in a dynamic environment.
• Additional advantageous qualifications or experience: Transnet Supervisory Development Programme, relevant supervisory experience, SQL Server related certification, Microsoft related certification.
• NQF Level 5 certificate (120 credits) relevant to the position applied for.
• Minimum 8 years’ database administrator related experience.

Competencies

• Structured Query Language (SQL)
• Relational Database Management System (RDBMS)
• Microsoft SQL Server 2012 and later
• SQL Server Management Studio
• High Availability and Disaster Recovery options for SQL Server
• Performance tuning and optimization
• Knowledge management
• Communication
• Report writing
• Conflict management
• Change management
• Configuration management
• ICT Governance
• Analysis & Attention to detail
• Problem Solving
• Big picture thinking
• Drive and Results Orientation
• Creativity & Innovation
• Critical thinking
• Flexibility & adaptability
• Excellence & Quality Orientation

Equity Statement

Preference will be given to suitably qualified Applicants who are members of the designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the Organisation/Operating Division.