Specialist: Database

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Operating Division: Transnet Corporate Centre

Employee Group: Permanent

Department: ICT Infrastructure

Location: Johannesburg

Reporting To: Snr Manager: Infrastructure

Grade: F

Reference: req5881

The closing date is on 25/09/2026. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that HR has received the application before the closing date of the advertisement.

Position Purpose

The Database Specialist is responsible for managing, optimizing, and securing databases across (hybrid) cloud and on-premises environments, predominantly on the Microsoft Azure Cloud platform. The role involves designing, implementing and managing database solutions that ensure high availability, performance, and scalability while supporting the organisation’s ongoing transition and migration of from database services between the cloud and on-premises environments.

Position Outputs

The Database Specialist will: • Design, implement, and manage scalable and secure database architectures across hybrid environments.

• Optimize database performance through monitoring, indexing, and tuning strategies.
• Implement and manage data migration from on-premises databases to Azure cloud services (e.g., Azure SQL, Cosmos DB).
• Ensure data security and compliance with regulatory requirements such as POPIA and ISO 27001.
• Provide disaster recovery and backup strategies using Azure Backup, Azure Site Recovery, and on-premises solutions.
• Collaborate with application, network, and infrastructure teams to support database integration.
• Document database environments, processes, and governance policies.
• Monitor and troubleshoot database performance using tools like Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and third-party solutions.

Qualifications and Experience

Qualifications, Experience & Inherent Job Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• ITIL Foundation Certification (advantageous).

Must have at least two of the following Certification

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate.
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert.
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate.
• Microsoft Certified: SQL Server Database Administrator.
• Oracle Database Certification (for organizations using multiple database platforms).
• Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) – for managing containerized databases.
• CompTIA Security+ (for database security expertise) Certified Database Administrator) a plus.

Standard Job Requirements

• Driver’s license code 08
• Travel as required and approved.

Competencies

Technical Skills and Knowledge

• Database Management Systems (DBMS): Expertise in managing SQL-based systems (e.g., SQL Server, Azure SQL) and NoSQL systems (e.g., Cosmos DB, MongoDB).
• Cloud Integration: Proficiency in Azure data services such as Azure SQL Database, Azure Synapse Analytics, and Azure Data Factory.
• Performance Tuning: Advanced skills in indexing, query optimization, and database tuning.
• Data Migration: Experience in migrating large-scale databases to the cloud using tools like Azure Database Migration Service (DMS).
• Data Security: Strong knowledge of encryption, role-based access control, and compliance requirements like POPIA.
• Backup and Recovery: Proficiency in designing and managing database backup, replication, and disaster recovery solutions in hybrid environments.
• Monitoring and Troubleshooting: Experience with Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and third-party database performance monitoring tools.
• Automation: Skills in automating routine tasks using PowerShell, T-SQL, or Python.

Documentation:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of database configurations, schemas, and processes.

Soft Skills Required

• Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot complex database issues effectively.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to liaise with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with infrastructure, application, and security teams.
• Adaptability: Quickly adapt to changing environments and technologies.
• Attention to Detail: Ensure accuracy and precision in managing data and processes.
• Leadership: Guide teams during migrations and service transitions, providing mentorship to junior members.
• Strategic Thinking: Align database strategies with business goals and long-term organizational objectives.

Equity Statement

Preference will be given to suitably qualified Applicants who are members of the designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the Organisation/Operating Division.

Disclaimer

If you have not heard from Transnet within 90 days, please consider your application as unsuccessful.

Transnet, its employees or representatives never ask for a fee from job seekers. Any such requests are fraudulent. Please report any suspicious activities in this regard to the Transnet anti-fraud line on 0800 003 056 or email reportit@ethicshelpdesk.com