Junior Database Administrator at The South African Weather Service (SAWS)

Job summary: 

• Assist in the administration, maintenance and monitoring of SQL Server databases. 
• Support database backup, recovery and disaster recovery processes. 
• Assist with database performance monitoring and optimization. 
• Develop and maintain SQL queries, stored procedures and scripts under supervision. 
• Support database security and user access management. 
• Assist the Senior DBA with database installations, upgrades and migration activities. 
• Maintain database documentation and standards. 
• Monitor SQL Server jobs and scheduled tasks. 
• Monitor database growth and storage utilisation. 
• Verify successful completion of backups. 
• Perform periodic restore testing. 
• Monitor SQL Server services, database jobs, replication processes and alert notifications. 
• Maintain database inventory, server configuration records and operational procedures. 
• Assist with testing and implementation of SQL Server patches and updates. 
• Support disaster recovery testing and business continuity initiatives related to database services. 

Key Performance Areas: 

Database Administration and Maintenance 

• Assist with the installation, configuration and maintenance of SQL Server databases under the guidance of the Senior Database Administrator. 
• Monitor database availability and performance. 
• Perform routine health checks. 

Backup, Recovery and Security 

• Execute backup and recovery procedures. 
• Manage user access and security permissions. 
• Maintain database security standards. 

Database Development Support 

• Develop and maintain SQL queries, views, procedures and triggers 
• Support application developers with database-related requirements. 

Performance Monitoring 

• Monitor database performance and identify performance bottlenecks for resolution or escalation to the Senior Database Administrator. 
• Assist with implementing performance improvement recommendations. KPA 5: Documentation and Compliance 
• Maintain database documentation and procedures. 
• Support audit and compliance requirements. KPA 6: Customer and Technical Support 
• Provide database support in accordance with agreed SLAs. 
• Liaise with users, developers and service providers 

Required minimum education / training: 

• National Diploma in Computer Science, Information Systems, Information Technology or related field, Degree will be an added advantage. 

Advantageous

• Microsoft SQL Server Certification (e.g. Azure Database Administrator Associate or equivalent). 
• Database Administration certification. 
• Exposure to Microsoft Azure SQL Database and cloud database technologies. 

Required Minimum work experience: 

• 1–2 years' experience in database administration or database development. 
• Experience working with Microsoft SQL Server environments. 
• Experience writing SQL queries, stored procedures and database scripts. 
• Exposure to backup and recovery administration. 
• Experience supporting business applications hosted on SQL Server. 

Closing Date: 09 September 2026