Database Reliability Engineer (SQL Server & Azure) in Newcastle upon Tyne

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Database Reliability Engineer to join a growing technology function, playing a key role in ensuring the performance, availability, security, and resilience of business-critical database environments.

This role would suit a SQL Server specialist who enjoys combining traditional DBA responsibilities with modern reliability engineering principles. You'll work closely with infrastructure, application, and development teams, helping to optimise database performance, automate processes, strengthen resilience, and support a highly available technology estate.

What You'll Be Doing

• Acting as the technical expert for SQL Server environments across the business.
• Monitoring database performance and proactively identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Optimising T-SQL code, database design, indexing strategies, and query performance.
• Supporting Azure SQL and Azure Managed Instance environments.
• Developing automation to simplify administration, patching, upgrades, and maintenance activities.
• Managing backup, recovery, and disaster recovery processes to ensure business continuity.
• Investigating and resolving database-related incidents and performance issues.
• Implementing and maintaining database security best practices.
• Producing and maintaining technical documentation, runbooks, and support procedures.
• Working closely with developers and wider technology teams to support deployments and continuous improvement initiatives.

About You

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a Database Administrator, Database Engineer, Database Reliability Engineer, or similar role.
• Strong SQL Server expertise, ideally across versions 2012 onwards.
• Advanced T-SQL skills with a strong focus on performance tuning and optimisation.
• Experience supporting Azure SQL and Azure Managed Instance environments.
• Strong understanding of database monitoring, availability, backup, and recovery strategies.
• Experience working within ITIL or ITSM-driven environments.
• Passion for emerging technologies and continuous improvement.

Desirable Experience

• Microsoft database certifications.
• PowerShell or other scripting and automation technologies.
• Experience with Redgate SQL Monitor or similar monitoring platforms.
• Exposure to other database technologies.
• Knowledge of cloud storage and cloud-native database services.