Database Team Lead - Oracle & SQL Server

About Excis

Excis is a global IT support organization operating in over 190 countries, staffed by more than 6,000 engineers and serving upwards of 200 enterprise clients. The company fosters a collaborative atmosphere aimed at technical mastery, ongoing education, and professional advancement.

Role Overview

We are looking for a seasoned Database Team Lead specializing in Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server to lead and manage critical database systems at the enterprise level. This role requires both hands-on technical proficiency and leadership capabilities to oversee database operations and guide team members.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage Oracle and SQL Server database environments within the enterprise.
• Provide mentorship and technical direction to database administrators.
• Develop and enforce standards and optimal practices for database administration.
• Review system configurations, changes, maintenance, and upgrades.
• Serve as the senior escalation contact for complex or critical database issues.
• Administer Oracle versions 11g through 21c, including RAC, ASM, Data Guard, and Replication functionalities.
• Implement Oracle installations, upgrades, patching, migrations, and troubleshooting tasks.
• Oversee Microsoft SQL Server environments focusing on Always On Availability Groups, clustering, and replication.
• Lead SQL Server version upgrades, patching, migrations, and issue resolution.
• Drive database performance monitoring, tuning, and optimization efforts.
• Manage and validate backup and recovery strategies using Oracle RMAN and SQL Server technologies.
• Support disaster recovery processes including testing and recovery exercises.
• Implement database security measures including access control, encryption, and auditing.
• Support cloud-hosted databases within Azure, AWS, and/or OCI platforms.
• Develop automation scripts utilizing SQL, PL/SQL, T-SQL, and other scripting languages to enhance operational efficiency.
• Lead incident responses to P1/P2 database outages and conduct root cause analysis to prevent recurrence.
• Ensure all upgrades, migrations, patching, and changes comply with change management protocols.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of database architecture, operational procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
• Promote continuous improvements in database management processes and standards.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 8 years of professional experience in enterprise database administration.
• Deep practical knowledge of Oracle Database versions 11g, 12c, 19c, and 21c.
• Extensive expertise in Microsoft SQL Server and its high availability features.
• Hands-on experience with Oracle RAC, ASM, Data Guard, Replication, and SQL Server Always On, Clustering, and Replication.
• Advanced abilities in database performance tuning and query optimization.
• Strong command of backup, recovery processes, high availability, and disaster recovery methods.
• Familiarity with database security protocols including encryption, auditing, and access controls.
• Experience with cloud environments such as Azure, AWS, and OCI.
• Proficiency in writing and automating tasks using SQL, PL/SQL, T-SQL, and database-related scripting.
• Knowledge of enterprise monitoring tools like Oracle Enterprise Manager and SQL Server Management Studio.
• Demonstrated success supporting mission-critical production database ecosystems.
• Leadership, analytical problem-solving, troubleshooting, and effective communication skills.
• Background in banking or financial services is considered an asset.

Preferred and Advantageous Experience

• Experience managing database teams or leading technical projects.
• Participation in high-scale database migrations and upgrades.
• Proven capabilities in designing and implementing robust HA/DR architectures.
• Possession of relevant certifications such as Oracle Database, Microsoft SQL Server, cloud certifications (Azure/AWS/OCI), or ITIL Foundation.

Performance Indicators

• Database uptime and availability metrics.
• Efficient resolution of P1/P2 incidents within agreed service levels.
• Minimizing mean time to resolve (MTTR) for incidents.
• Effective performance tuning and optimization outcomes.
• Successful backup, recovery, and disaster recovery testing rates.
• Accurate capacity planning and infrastructure forecasting.
• Reduction in frequency of repeat incidents.
• High quality and timely root cause analyses.
• Compliance with security standards and protocols.
• Comprehensive and accurate technical documentation.
• Smooth execution of database upgrades, migrations, and changes.

Benefits

• Inclusive and supportive work culture.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and learning.
• Exposure to global enterprise clients and cutting-edge technologies.
• Competitive remuneration package.
• Clear pathways for career progression.