SQL Developer

Role: Senior SQL Developer

Work Pattern: Hybrid

Location: Stoke-on-Trent

Salary: £45,000-£55,000

We're looking for an experienced Senior SQL Developer to take ownership of a Microsoft SQL Server environment, leading the design, development and optimisation of business-critical database solutions. This role offers the opportunity to provide technical leadership, influence database strategy, mentor other developers and deliver scalable, high-performance solutions that support a growing business.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys combining hands-on SQL development with technical leadership in a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

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• Take ownership of the design, development and ongoing enhancement of SQL Server database solutions.
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• Serve as the technical expert for the SQL Server environment, driving best practices and providing guidance across the team.
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• Maintain and optimise business-critical databases to ensure high levels of performance, security and availability.
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• Develop and enhance complex stored procedures, functions, views, triggers and database integrations.
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• Monitor database health and identify opportunities to improve performance, scalability and reliability.
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• Investigate and resolve complex database issues, including performance bottlenecks, locking, blocking and data integrity challenges.
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• Oversee database backup, recovery and disaster recovery strategies to ensure business continuity.
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• Work closely with developers, analysts and key stakeholders to deliver robust technical solutions.
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• Review code, uphold development standards and champion best practices across the team.
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• Support project delivery through technical input, solution design and accurate effort estimation.
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• Keep up to date with emerging technologies and recommend improvements to database architecture and development processes.
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Key Skills & Experience:

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• 5+ years' experience developing and administering Microsoft SQL Server database solutions.
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• Expert knowledge of T-SQL, including stored procedures, functions, views and performance optimisation.
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• Strong experience with relational database design, ETL processes (SSIS or equivalent) and high-volume transactional databases.
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• Proven ability to troubleshoot and optimise SQL performance, including query tuning, execution plans, locking and deadlocks.
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• Experience with SQL Server backup, recovery, disaster recovery and High Availability technologies (Always On Availability Groups, Log Shipping and Replication).
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• Experience with Azure SQL Database and/or Azure SQL Managed Instance.
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• Familiarity with Git, Azure DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, PowerShell and SQL monitoring tools is advantageous.
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• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and stakeholder communication skills.
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Desirable:

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• Previous experience mentoring or coaching junior developers and helping to drive development best practices.
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• Experience providing technical leadership and contributing to technical strategy and solution design.
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Benefits:

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• Up to 35 days holiday (including bank holidays).
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• Enhanced family leave.
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• Death in service cover.
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• Employee Assistance Programme.
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• Gym membership contribution.
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• Private dental support.
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• Employee recognition schemes and social events.
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• Annual eye tests and contribution towards prescription glasses.
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• Ongoing professional development within a collaborative and supportive working environment.
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If you are interested, please apply now!