Senior SQL Server Database Developer
Senior SQL Server Database Developer
West Lancashire | Hybrid
We're looking for a Senior SQL Server Database Developer to join an established R&D technology team and play a key role in a major Legacy application migration and data modernisation programme.
You'll be responsible for the design, development, optimisation and support of SQL Server databases that underpin business-critical R&D and manufacturing applications.
Working closely with software developers and business stakeholders, you'll help deliver robust, high-performing data solutions while supporting the transition to modern application technologies.
THE ROLE
- Lead the design, development and modernisation of SQL Server databases.
- Develop and maintain complex T-SQL, including stored procedures, functions, views and queries.
- Design effective database structures, data models, relationships and indexing strategies.
- Optimise SQL Server performance through query tuning, execution plans and indexing.
- Support Legacy application and database migration and modernisation projects.
- Develop and maintain data integrations between applications, databases and internal systems.
- Investigate and resolve database performance, data integrity and production issues.
- Take ownership of the full database development life cycle, from specification and design through to testing, deployment, documentation and support.
- Work closely with software developers, manufacturing teams and business stakeholders to deliver effective data solutions.
- Provide technical support for business-critical applications and databases.
- Promote database development standards, best practice and documentation.
- Mentor and support junior developers and colleagues.
- Investigate new technologies and approaches to improve database performance and capability.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS
- Strong commercial experience with Microsoft SQL Server and T-SQL.
- Proven experience in SQL Server database design, development and optimisation.
- Strong understanding of relational database design and data modelling.
- Experience with performance tuning, query optimisation, execution plans and indexing.
- Experience developing stored procedures, functions, views and other database objects.
- Experience diagnosing and resolving SQL Server performance and production issues.
- Experience with data integration, migration and transformation.
- Experience working alongside software development teams.
- Experience with CI/CD and the full software development life cycle.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- A proactive, detail-oriented approach to database development and data quality.
DESIRABLE SKILLS
- Experience working with C# and .NET development teams.
- Experience modernising Legacy applications and databases.
- Experience with automated database deployment and CI/CD.
- Experience working with large or business-critical datasets.
- Knowledge of manufacturing, production, quality or R&D systems.
- Experience with Python or data analysis.
- Knowledge of data science, machine learning, probability or statistics.
- Relevant degree or equivalent commercial experience.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
- We're looking for an experienced SQL Server professional who combines strong technical skills with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
- You'll be comfortable taking ownership of complex database solutions, working collaboratively with developers and business stakeholders, and supporting business-critical systems.
- Experience with C#, .NET, JavaScript/jQuery, Python, Data Science or Machine Learning would be advantageous, but the key requirement is strong commercial SQL Server and T-SQL expertise.