Senior SQL Database Administrator & Data Engineer

Are you determined to go further as a Difference Maker? SAICA has a perfect opportunity to take you further on your journey of being a Difference Maker. SAICA has embarked on an exciting transformation to become an insights-driven, technology-enabled, and AI-powered organisation. As part of our journey, we are streamlining processes, enhancing our digital capabilities, and strengthening our focus on sustainability in the accounting profession.This transformation presents an opportunity for you to grow and contribute to SAICAs vision in a redefined, future-fit role. We are looking for enthusiastic, skilled professionals who are eager to innovate, embrace data-driven decision-making, and help shape the future of the profession. If you are ready to be part of this next chapter, make a meaningful impact, and you are a suitably qualified and experienced Difference Maker wanting to go further on this exciting journey, you are encouraged to apply. Purpose of the job The Senior SQL DBA & Data Engineer will oversee the development and use of data systems. This role ensures that information flows timely and securely to and from the organization. The person in the role is expected to find efficient ways to organize, store and analyse data with attention to security and confidentiality. This role will further be responsible for leading data architecture, database administration, data integration and data services platforms for Data Services and Data Governance. The role will ensure that the data integration platforms and architecture are maintained and that the services delivered meets the business demand and possess excellent troubleshooting skills. Key / main outputs Output 1 : Data and System Strategy Formulating management techniques for quality data collection to ensure adequacy, accuracy and legitimacy of data. Devising and implementing efficient and secure procedures for data management and analysis with attention to all technical aspects. Monitor and analyze information and data systems and evaluate their performance to discover ways of enhancing them with new technologies, upgrades etc. Work in conjunction with end-user and other relevant stakeholders to define data business needs. To lead efforts to develop and improve procedures for database performance monitoring and proactive intervention using appropriate tools. To work with the Architect, Project Managers, and Business Analysts to communicate the impact of technical decisions on : Scope. Resourcing needs. Requirements need and The impact of the changes. Output 2 : Technical support Oversee technical support of all database technologies including monitoring, reporting, patching, troubleshooting and code deployment. Troubleshoot data-related problems and authorize maintenance or modifications. Perform database administration. To conduct root cause analysis and resolve production problems and data issues. Output 3 : Compliance and support Support others in the daily use of data systems and ensure adherence to legal / regulatory and company standards. Ensure digital databases and archives are protected from security breaches and data losses. Responsible for defining and enforcing policies, processes, standards and best practices for development, integration services, and database administration. Assist with the design of redundant systems, policies, and procedures for disaster recovery to ensure effective availability, protection, and integrity of data assets. Manage the procurement, deployment, and lifecycle of hardware and software assets Output 4 : ETL Development and Data Integration Design and develop ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes using SQL and other relevant tools to integrate data from various sources (databases, APIs, flat files) into centralized repositories (data warehouses, data lakes). Build and automate data pipelines to ensure the continuous flow of data between systems while maintaining data quality and integrity Output 5 : Data Optimization and Performance Tuning Monitor, analyse, and improve SQL query performance and overall database performance. Implement indexing strategies, query optimization, and database partitioning to ensure fast and efficient data retrieval. Troubleshoot and resolve performance bottlenecks, slow-running queries, and database issues to ensure minimal downtime. Output 6 : Reporting & Analytics Support Work with the Business Intelligence (BI) and analytics teams to provide clean, structured data for reporting and dashboard development. Assist in the generation of financial reports, KPIs, and ad-hoc data queries to support business decision-making. Output 7 : Documentation & Best Practices Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for SQL queries, database schemas, data models, and data processing workflows. Follow industry best practices and standards for database management, data security, and data modelling. Output 8 : Embrace and drive organisational transformation Actively contribute to cost containment efforts by identifying opportunities for operational efficiencies, optimising resources, and ensuring value-driven decision-making in daily activities. Support SAICAs transformation into an insights-driven organisation by leveraging data and analytics to enhance decision-making, improve processes, and drive continuous improvement in your area of work. Effectively utilise digital tools and technology to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and improve service delivery. Stay informed about new and emerging technologies relevant to your role Adopt and embrace AI-driven tools and automation to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness in job-related tasks, while continuously seeking opportunities to improve processes through innovative technology solutions. Identify and support SAICAs management of risks related to sustainability, including environmental risks, regulatory changes and social risks and integrating them into business continuity and risk management plans. Formal Education IT Diploma with emphasis on Data Management or B.Sc. (Computer Science) (advantageous) Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) : Data Management and Analytics Technical / Legal Certification Knowledge and understanding of : Database optimization techniques Knowledge of cloud-based database services such as Azure SQL Database Knowledge of ETL processes Experience Minimum 8 years Database Administrator working experience. At least 5 years Data Scientist / Data service engineer / working experience. A hands-on tech-savvy expert who is able to fully grasp the complexity of data management. A strong understanding of databases and data analysis procedures. A solid understanding of data administration and management functions (collection, analysis, distribution etc.) Familiarity with modern database and information system technologies. Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Access, Word etc.) An analytical mind-set with problem-solving skills. Excellent communication and collaboration skills. Knowledge and Skills Change Management, Deep understanding of IT change management processes and frameworks. IT Governance Frameworks, Knowledge of IT governance and data protection regulations (e.g. POPIA, GDPR). Strategic Thinking, demonstrated ability to think strategically and develop innovative solutions aligned with business objectives. Leadership Abilities, Strong leadership capabilities, with a proven track record of building and managing high-performing teams. Analytical Skills, Advanced analytical skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex technical challenges effectively. Stakeholder Engagement, Proficient in stakeholder engagement and relationship management, fostering collaboration across diverse teams and departments. Communication Excellence, Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Project Management Expertise, Skilled in project management, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery of operational projects. Strategic Orientation, Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills. Leadership, Excellent leadership and team management abilities. Adaptability, High adaptability to change and a commitment to innovation. Customer / Stakeholder Focused, The awareness of the customer / stakeholder needs, and expectations and the fulfilment of the customer / stakeholder needs and requirements. Motivated, the ability to feel enthusiastic, interested and committed to do something or have the effect on other people. Reliability, the ability to be trusted to do what is expected in terms of work outcome.