Lesaka Technologies is looking for a Senior Microsoft SQL Database Administrator to join our dynamic team. Lesaka is a leading South African financial technology company that provides innovative financial services to consumers (B2C) and merchants (B2B) in Southern Africa. We offer a wide range of products including banking, lending, insurance, cash management, and payment solutions.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Microsoft SQL Database Administrator (DBA) to ensure the performance, availability, and security of our Microsoft SQL Server databases. The successful candidate will also have cloud computing and system engineering expertise to integrate on-premises systems with cloud-based platforms. This role will involve providing high-level expertise in SQL Server database management while overseeing cloud infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Database Management:

   • Install, configure, and maintain Microsoft SQL Server instances and databases.
   • Perform database migrations, upgrades, and patching.
   • Manage clustering, replication, and other high-availability solutions (e.g., AlwaysOn Availability Groups, Mirroring, Log Shipping).
   • Optimize databases for performance and scalability.

2. Performance Tuning:

   • Monitor and analyze database performance and identify optimization opportunities.
   • Optimize SQL queries, indexing, and server configurations for efficient data retrieval.
   • Establish and implement performance monitoring tools and strategies.

3. Backup and Recovery:

   • Implement and manage backup and disaster recovery strategies.
   • Perform regular database backups and test recovery procedures to meet recovery objectives (RTO/RPO).
   • Troubleshoot and resolve backup and restore issues.

4. Security:

   • Implement and manage database security policies, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
   • Manage user roles, permissions, and security settings to ensure secure database access.
   • Audit database security and enforce data privacy regulations.

5. Troubleshooting and Support:

   • Provide second and third-line support for SQL Server incidents and troubleshooting.
   • Collaborate with development and infrastructure teams to resolve complex issues.

6. Database Design and Architecture:

   • Collaborate with development teams to design and implement optimized database schemas and architectures.
   • Ensure the integrity, normalization, and scalability of database systems.
   • Participate in capacity planning and future-proofing database environments.

7. Automation and Scripting:

   • Develop and maintain automation scripts for DBA tasks (e.g., backup, performance monitoring).
   • Write T-SQL and PowerShell scripts for database management and troubleshooting.

8. Documentation and Reporting:

   • Document database configurations, procedures, and best practices.
   • Prepare and present reports on database performance, capacity, and health.

9. Mentorship and Training:

   • Provide mentorship to junior DBAs and database developers.
   • Foster a culture of continuous learning within the database administration team.

Required Qualifications & Skills:

• Certifications: Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate, Azure Solutions Architect, AWS Certified Solutions Architect (or similar certifications).
• Experience:
  • 5-7 years of experience as a Microsoft SQL Server Database Administrator.
  • Advanced knowledge of SQL Server architecture, clustering, replication, and high-availability solutions.
  • Expertise in T-SQL, stored procedures, and database design.
  • Experience with SQL Server performance tuning and optimization.
  • Strong experience with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and SQL Profiler.
  • Familiarity with cloud-based database solutions (e.g., Azure SQL Database, AWS RDS).
• Skills:
  • Proficiency in scripting languages (PowerShell, Python, T-SQL).
  • Experience with DevOps practices, database CI/CD pipelines, and automation tools.
  • In-depth knowledge of cloud platforms, particularly Microsoft Azure and AWS.
  • Experience in system administration (Windows/Linux), virtualization, and cloud infrastructure management.
  • Familiarity with database migration, replication, and cloud transition processes.
  • Experience with monitoring tools (SQL Server Management Studio, Azure Monitor, Redgate).

Soft Skills:

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment:

• Onsite work options based on business needs.
• Occasional on-call availability for critical database/system-related issues.
• Collaborative and fast-paced work environment with cross-functional teams.