Talascend is currently seeking a Database Engineer for a contract opportunity with our client in Foster City, California.
Overview
As a Database Engineer, you will design, build, and operate scalable, secure data stores that power our applications and analytics. You’ll partner closely with application and data teams to shape schemas, tune performance, and automate operations using AWS and infrastructure-as-code. Your work will improve reliability, reduce cost, and accelerate delivery from development through production.
Responsibilities
- Design and develop efficient, scalable database solutions aligned to business requirements.
- Install, configure, and upgrade database software and related tooling.
- Monitor performance and optimize queries, indexes, and schemas for reliability and speed.
- Implement and maintain database security controls to protect sensitive data.
- Collaborate with application developers to optimize schema designs and SQL.
- Troubleshoot incidents and provide timely resolution across environments.
- Develop and maintain documentation for architecture, configuration, and runbooks.
- Perform capacity planning and recommend infrastructure improvements.
- Manage and support AWS database infrastructure (e.g., RDS/Aurora/Redshift).
- Stay current on emerging database technologies, patterns, and best practices.
Qualifications
- Strong understanding of AWS and IaC for database resources.
- Proven experience as a Database Engineer/DBA.
- Deep knowledge of DBMSs (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server, Redshift).
- Proficiency in SQL and query optimization.
- Solid grasp of data modeling, normalization, and schema design principles.
- Hands-on experience with performance tuning and monitoring.
- Understanding of backup/restore and disaster recovery procedures.
- Knowledge of database security best practices.
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, communication, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- AWS networking fundamentals.
- Experience with Terraform Cloud and IaC workflows.
- Automation/scripting with Python or Shell.
- CI/CD for databases (e.g., Bamboo, Flyway, or similar).
We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those qualified individuals who closely meet the qualifications of the position will be contacted. The details of the position are only a summary, other duties may be assigned as necessary.
Drug Screen may be required.
We will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to Federal, State and Local law, including the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, the Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance, and the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Talascend is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Applicants with criminal histories are encouraged to apply. To find out more visit California Fair Chance Act.
Pay range is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. Talascend also offers a variety of benefits including: health and disability insurance, 401(k), EAP, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, plan requirements, schedule type, and client work site mandates.
Talascend is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.
Military connected talent encouraged to apply.