Lead Database Administrator

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United Kingdom, +1 more country.

📋 Description

• Assume complete, hands-on responsibility for daily database operations, which includes managing backups, addressing slow-running queries, and optimizing performance.

• Design, secure, and maintain the foundational Linux servers that support distributed databases.

• Plan, oversee, and execute database upgrades and migrations.

• Develop detailed execution plans and convey technical considerations and business implications to non-technical stakeholders.

• Assess incoming tasks, delegate as necessary, and serve as the primary escalation point for database issues.

• Evaluate and enhance system performance.

• Spearhead the automation of database platform management and monitoring.

• Work collaboratively with development teams, product owners, and stakeholders to fulfill database requirements and enhance deployment testability.

• Document processes, best practices, and troubleshooting guidelines.

• Plan, prioritize, and estimate tasks utilizing Jira.

• Provide essential database support during and beyond standard business hours.

• Mentor and guide engineers on database design, optimization, and migration strategies.

⛳️ Requirements

• Advanced administration skills in MySQL within production environments, whether on-premise or cloud-based.

• Strong knowledge of Linux system administration and networking.

• Experience as the sole or primary owner of substantial production database infrastructure within a SaaS context.

• Demonstrable responsibility for database uptime and performance.

• Experience coordinating with external technical stakeholders and complying with light change management protocols.

• Advanced proficiency in configuring and troubleshooting MySQL replication configurations, including primary-replica, multi-master, and GTID setups.

• Ability to address replication lag, manage failovers, and implement disaster recovery plans.

• Familiarity with database monitoring tools, performance thresholds, and response mechanisms.

• Extensive expertise in query tuning, slow query analysis, and schema optimization, including normalization, partitioning, query rewrites, and indexing strategies.

• Proven experience in executing upgrades with minimal downtime and managing complex migrations.

• Highly proficient in Python and/or Bash automation and version-controlled scripting.

• Experience securing database infrastructure via SSL/TLS encryption, user access control, audit logging, and automated backup encryption.

• Willingness to learn necessary technologies.

• Interest in development, emerging technologies, and innovation.

🏝️ Benefits

• Flexible Time Off Policy – Take the time you need.

• Enhanced parental leave (16 weeks for the birth parent, 8 weeks for the non-birth parent at full pay).

• Regular company events and activities.

• Comprehensive Company Sponsored Health & Welfare Benefits.

• 401k Plan – 4% employee match.

• Enhanced Wellness Program including access to EAP, Wellness Coaching & Wellness Fridays program.

• Flexible work environment.