Senior Database Administrator at Gulf African Bank

Job Purpose:

• To ensure the stability, integrity, and optimal performance of the Bank’s database environments by managing, securing, and optimizing all enterprise databases across Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and other supported platforms. The role is responsible for database design, performance tuning, high availability, backup and recovery, and compliance with regulatory and security standards to support critical banking operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Database Administration

• Administer, maintain, and support Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, and PostgreSQL database systems.
• Install, configure, and upgrade database servers and related tools.
• Implement database security, encryption, and user access controls in compliance with internal and regulatory requirements.
• Perform regular database health checks, integrity verification, and maintenance activities.

Performance and Optimization

• Monitor database performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize SQL queries, indexes, and storage.
• Conduct capacity planning and implement tuning strategies to ensure optimal performance and scalability.
• Analyse trends and recommend improvements to database architecture and processes.

Backup, Recovery, and High Availability

• Implement and manage backup and disaster recovery strategies using RMAN, or equivalent tools.
• Ensure databases are configured for high availability and replication between Production and DR sites.
• Regularly test and document restore and recovery procedures.

Security and Compliance

• Enforce database security policies, including data encryption, audit logging, and least-privilege access.
• Support compliance with CBK, PCI-DSS, GDPR, and internal IT security frameworks.
• Apply security patches and address vulnerabilities in coordination with the IT Security team.

Automation and Scripting

• Automate routine administrative tasks using PowerShell, Python, Bash, or SQL scripting.
• Develop scripts for monitoring, alerting, and reporting on database performance and availability.

Collaboration and Support

• Work closely with application developers, system administrators, and network engineers to ensure seamless integration and system stability.
• Provide advanced technical support for database-related incidents and participate in root cause analysis.
• Participate in IT projects including system upgrades, migrations, and application deployments.

Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity

• Support and test database recovery procedures as part of the BCP/DR drills.
• Maintain DR documentation and ensure replication and synchronization between production and standby databases.

Qualifications, experience and job specific competencies

Qualifications and experience

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related discipline.

Experience

• 5 years of experience in database administration within a complex, mission-critical environment.
• Proven experience managing Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server databases preferably in a financial or banking setup.
• Experience with MySQL, PostgreSQL, and other RDBMS platforms.
• Exposure to cloud-based databases (Azure SQL, AWS RDS) is an added advantage.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in database installation, configuration, tuning, and backup/recovery.
• Strong understanding of SQL, PL/SQL, T-SQL, and performance tuning techniques.
• Experience with Oracle Data Guard, SQL Server AlwaysOn, and replication technologies.
• Knowledge of data security, encryption, and audit management.
• Familiarity with monitoring tools (OEM, SolarWinds DPA, Zabbix, or equivalent).
• Understanding of operating systems (Windows, Linux) and networking concepts.

Certifications

• Oracle Certified Professional (OCP)
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate or MCSE: Data Management and Analytics
• MySQL or PostgreSQL DBA certification
• ITIL Foundation, CompTIA Security+, or CISSP (added advantage)

Core competencies

• Customer Focus – Deliver responsive and reliable database services supporting business operations.
• Accountability – Demonstrate ownership for database uptime, integrity, and performance.
• Problem Solving – Apply analytical and structured approaches to resolve complex database issues.
• Performance Management – Maintain high standards of availability, reliability, and responsiveness.
• Self-Management & Development – Continuously update knowledge on database technologies, security, and automation.

Personal attributes

• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work under pressure and during maintenance windows/off-peak hours.
• Strong documentation and organizational abilities.
• Professionalism and commitment to continuous improvement.

Key Relationships

• Direct Reports to this Position
• None
• Customers of this Position
• All Departments in the Bank