Database Engineering Scientist Full-time

Database Engineering Scientist

The Applied Research Laboratories at the University of Austin is seeking a Database Engineering Specialist. The candidate will be responsible for building, testing and maintaining database backends to include performance monitoring, troubleshooting, backup and optimization in an enterprise Linux environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop, deploy, and maintain complex databases tailored for analytic processing in production / operational environments. Includes monitoring and optimization of database performance to support user needs and managing database growth.
• Collaborate with development teams to define application requirements and provide guidance on database programming best practices. Support cross-functional development efforts that require specialized database access and integration.
• Ensure database security and data integrity through robust protection strategies and rigorous validation protocols. Document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all deployed database environments.
• Support other efforts related to development, integration and deployment of automated data processing capabilities supporting analytic use cases.
• Other related functions as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Three years developing and maintaining complex PostgreSQL databases.
• Minimum of three years of experience developing and maintaining complex SQL-based databases. Ability to troubleshoot and fix database errors, analyze database performance and make performance improvement recommendations.
• Demonstrated strong proficiency in Linux administration
• Demonstrated strong proficiency in modern software development practices, including Git, CI/CD pipelines, and Infrastructure as Code.
• Must currently hold, or be able to obtain within the first six months of employment, a DoD 8140 compliant security certification (e.g., Security+).

Applicant must be comfortable learning and working with new technologies, be highly organized and capable of planning and coordinating multiple tasks and managing their time. The position will require attention to detail, effective problem-solving skills and excellent judgment. Ability to work independently with sensitive and confidential information, maintain a professional demeanor, work as a team member without daily supervision and effectively communicate with all groups of clients. Able to work under pressure and accept supervision. Regular and punctual attendance.

US Citizen: Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information at the level appropriate to the project requirements of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Ten or more years of experience developing and maintaining complex SQL-based databases. Experience managing databases and related infrastructure in the cloud.
• Two or more years of experience developing and maintaining complex PostgreSQL databases. Experience managing databases and related infrastructure in the cloud.
• Strong proficiency in modern cloud infrastructure (e.g., AWS, RDS, and IAM).
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Salary Range

$104,000-$174,000+/negotiable depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• Standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of manual dexterity
• Some weekend, evening and holiday work
• Possible interstate/intrastate travel