SQL Database Administrator

DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR



Salary:

The starting salary is £45,131, which includes allowances totalling £2,+28.

The salary is broken down as £42,203 basic salary, which will increase annually until you reach the top of the scale - £47,668. Plus, a location allowance of £1,+28 and a non-pensionable allowance of £1,000.



Location / Hybrid Working:

This role can be based in either Sidcup, Hendon or Lambeth but there may be a need for you to attend offsite meetings as required by the business. We actively support hybrid working solutions, with the expectation that you will have 2 days working at home.



The Role:

As a Database Administrator with the MPS, you'll play a key role in keeping our database systems secure, high-performing, and reliable. Your work will directly support our policing operations, enabling teams to make informed decisions and continue keeping London safe.



In this role, you’ll be responsible for managing and maintaining our Microsoft SQL Server databases. You’ll ensure their security, performance, and availability, making sure we are always on top of any potential issues. Your daily tasks will include monitoring these systems and responding swiftly to any problems that arise, keeping everything running smoothly. You’ll also be fine-tuning database performance, troubleshooting, and optimising SQL queries to ensure everything operates efficiently.



A significant part of your role will involve implementing robust security policies to safeguard sensitive data, as well as working closely with development teams to design database structures that meet application needs. You’ll advise on capacity planning, recommending upgrades when necessary, and help ensure the system can scale as we grow.



To streamline processes and reduce manual tasks, you’ll also develop automation scripts to handle routine database functions. On top of that, you’ll document all our database systems, ensuring we have clear and up-to-date records for transparency and team knowledge.



While this role is largely standard hours, there may be times when occasional overtime will be required to support operational policing.



The MPS is a unique organisation where technology and data play a vital role in supporting frontline policing. By joining us as a Database Administrator, you’ll help shape the future of policing in London, ensuring our systems and data remain secure and high-performing.



What we can offer:

Hybrid working arrangements for a healthy work-life balance
28 days annual leave (excluding public holidays), rising to 33 days after 5 years continuous service
Personal and professional development opportunities
Enrolment with the Met’s employee incentive partner, Edenred, giving access to a range of rewards and incentives
Access to a range of financial products via the Metropolitan Police Trading Service, including preferred credit facilities
Generous family leave for pregnancy, adoption, paternity and shared parental leave
Childcare support including nursery and play scheme discounts
Excellent contributory pension scheme for your financial future
Access to the Bluelight Emergency Services discount card with a range of official discounts from large national retailers to local businesses including holidays, cars, days out, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones and much more
A substantial range of health and wellbeing benefits including physiotherapy, 24/7 rehabilitation services and free eye tests
To promote physical well-being you will have full access to subsidised sports centre membership to over 3,000 UK gyms and 80 London Fitness Centres. There is also an excellent range of sporting activities on offer through the various Met Police Sports and Social Clubs.


What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who has a strong technical background, ideally with a BSc in a STEM subject or equivalent practical experience. You’ll need to be well-versed in managing Microsoft SQL Server, with in-depth knowledge of its internals, performance tuning, and troubleshooting. Experience with database design and security management is key, as well as proficiency in T-SQL scripting and automation tools.



We’re also looking for someone who is proactive and able to collaborate with a variety of teams. Whether it’s working with colleagues on database design or helping troubleshoot performance issues, you should be comfortable influencing stakeholders and managing expectations.



Essential skills:

A BSc in a STEM subject or 3+ years of relevant experience as a Database Administrator, specialising in Microsoft SQL Server.
A deep understanding of SQL Server internals, performance tuning, and troubleshooting.
Strong skills in T-SQL scripting and automation.
A good grasp of database security principles and best practices.


It would also be beneficial if you have:

Microsoft SQL Server certifications (e.g., MCSA, MCSE).
Familiarity with cloud databases (e.g., Azure SQL Database) or other database systems (MySQL, Oracle).
Experience working with Agile methodologies or version control systems (e.g., GIT).


Security Clearance:

Due to the secure nature of our work, successful candidates must pass all vetting and security requirements, which for this role means Vetting Clearance is Force Clearance Level, Management Vetting (MV), and National Security Vetting (NSV)