Senior Database Administrator (MySQL, PostgreSQL) - Takealot

In brief

**Overview** This role at takealot.com is for a Senior Database Administrator specializing in MySQL and PostgreSQL. The individual will be responsible for deploying, operating, supporting, and managing databases that power Takealot's features, leveraging knowledge of operating systems, networking, and databases. Key aspects of the role include resolving operational issues, improving queries, and performing administrative tasks to ensure a stable and resilient platform. The Senior DBA will also contribute to the Database team's roadmap, investigate new technologies, design process improvements, and maintain a keen interest in the latest database releases and security reports. The position operates within a fast-paced agile environment, requiring collaboration across technical and non-technical teams, and reports to the DBA and DataOps Engineering Manager. **What you will do** * Troubleshoot slow queries and assist developers with creating optimisable SQL queries * Assist developers with schema design, schema changes, and administrative tasks * Design and execute operational excellence through metrics, monitoring, and documentation * Design and execute operational standards such as backups, replication, security, and disaster recovery * Oversee the performance, integrity, and security of corporate databases * Provide ongoing maintenance and review of existing database systems to ensure optimum operation * Ensure backups and disaster recovery systems are functional and regularly tested * Design and implement database optimisations to improve performance * Manage database architecture changes and ensure compliance with corporate standards * Assist with the design and administration of database cloud infrastructure as IaC * Participate in functional and technical specification reviews * Contribute technical solutions to business problems, considering business and/or product requirements and constraints * Collaborate with development, network, and system teams to ensure database requirements are met * Identify and resolve database-related issues promptly * Report on database health, performance metrics, and system improvements to stakeholders * Provide technical guidance to internal teams mentoring and external teams collaboration * Mentor junior DBAs and engage in knowledge-sharing initiatives * Think outside the box and explore new and/or alternative approaches to find the best solution **Requirements (from the original advert)** * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field of study, or 5–7 years of related experience * Proven extensive knowledge and experience with relational databases such as MySQL or PostgreSQL, including successful deployment, management, and operations * Proven expertise with other database systems such as key-value stores, document stores, columnar databases, etc. * Proven experience with one or more non-RDBMS systems such as MongoDB, Redis, Kafka, Elasticsearch, or Solr * Proven expertise in auxiliary systems such as networking, operating systems, and security * Experience delivering projects independently and/or contributing to open-source projects * Experience collaborating on projects as part of a team * Deep knowledge of database internals, backups, replication, metrics and monitoring, disaster recovery, security, database architecture, database configuration, query design, analysis, and optimisation * Proven knowledge and experience in auxiliary systems that support databases, including development and/or scripting, configuration management, networking, operating systems, data structures, cloud computing, and operations * Technical Skills: Proficient in database technologies e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, Oracle. Strong understanding of database performance tuning, query optimisation, and systems architecture * Problem-Solving: Effective troubleshooting and analytical skills for complex database issues * Communication: Strong oral and written communication skills for conveying technical content to both technical and non-technical audiences * Prioritisation: Ability to manage multiple database projects efficiently and meet tight deadlines * Collaboration: Effective team player who can work with various teams e.g., developers, administrators, and managers across the organisation * Attention to Detail: High accuracy and attention when performing backups, security configurations, and system monitoring * Adaptability: Embraces new technologies in the dynamic database management landscape * Leadership: Ability to mentor junior team members and foster a learning environment within the team **Who should apply** Candidates with extensive proven experience in relational database management (MySQL, PostgreSQL) and other non-RDBMS systems. The ideal applicant will possess a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field, or have 5-7 years of relevant experience. This individual should be capable of independent project delivery as well as collaborative teamwork, demonstrating deep knowledge of database internals, architecture, and optimization techniques. Strong problem-solving, communication, and prioritization skills are essential, along with the ability to mentor junior DBAs and adapt to new technologies in a fast-paced, agile environment. **Deadline** Not specified **Reference** Original posting: https://www.myjobmag.co.za/job/senior-database-administrator-mysql-postgresql-takealot-takealot-com Source: myjobmag

Summary drafted with AI assistance from the original advert. The advert itself is the authority — how we use AI.

At a glance

• At least 5 years of experience.

• Python
• React
• SQL
• PostgreSQL
• MySQL
• Google Cloud
• Kubernetes
• Linux
• Agile / Scrum

Extracted automatically from the advert; confirm requirements on the original listing.

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