Database Engineer ​/ SQL Server Developer

Our client, a prominent player in the energy and technology sectors, is seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Database Engineer / SQL Server Developer for a fixed-term contract. This pivotal role is situated within the comprehensive Control Systems Framework (CSF) project, located in Warrington or Stockton.

• Designing, developing, implementing, and testing database server solutions using Microsoft SQL Server or similar technologies, integrated within PLC/SCADA-based control systems.
• Producing high-quality engineering design documentation, including Requirements Capture and Traceability Documentation (URS/RTM), System/Functional Design Specifications (SDD/FDS), and Detailed Software System Specifications (SSS).
• Developing Test Specifications (Module/Integration/System/Hardware) and Operation & Maintenance Manuals (O&M).
• Supporting project Life Time Records of design documentation and contributing to System Rebuild Documentation.
• Maintaining efficient data access and retrieval through indexing, query optimisation, and database tuning.
• Implementing measures to ensure data accuracy, consistency, and security, including secure access controls and backup/recovery procedures.
• Collaborating with PLC and SCADA engineers to create and test fully integrated control systems.
• Identifying and resolving server and database issues to ensure high availability and minimal downtime.
• Conducting in-house acceptance testing in a formal, controlled manner and potentially supporting site acceptance testing (commissioning).

• Significant experience in creating and implementing database structures, preferably within PLC/SCADA control system design.
• Proficiency in programming and scripting using Microsoft SQL, MySQL Oracle, SQL Server, and/or Python.
• Strong programming skills for data manipulation, automation, and visualisation.
• Experienced in producing database design and logical structure diagrams, such as Entity Relationship Diagrams.
• Proven track record of formal and controlled testing and validation activities, including change management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, alongside strong technical documentation writing abilities.
• Experience in data migrations, data archiving/backup, and recovery procedures.
• Strong understanding of database concepts, data modelling, and indexing.
• Ability to work effectively as part of an Integrated Delivery Team or individually under tight deadlines.

• Experience in the EC&I industry or highly regulated industries such as Nuclear, MOD, or Pharmaceutical.
• Familiarity with cloud-based platforms such as GCP, AWS, or Azure.
• Experience with database clustering, load-balancing, and redundancy.
• Understanding OT Cyber Security and developing cyber-secure designs.
• Experience with integrated SCADA control system applications.
• Knowledge of the Sellafield Ltd Mgmt. System (V-Model) and awareness of Sellafield Engineering Standards.

• A Bachelor's Degree in Software or a related field, or demonstrable experience with a high emphasis on EC&I engineering using databases.

• Membership of a relevant professional institution.
• Certified training on SQL-related courses.
• Certified Cyber Security training.