Database Engineer - Chemical Insights Research Institutes

UL Research Institutes • Morrisville, NC

1d • $89,602 - $123,203 • Onsite

About The Position

The Database Engineer manages database systems in cloud and on-premises environments in support of Underwriters Laboratories Research Institutes’ (ULRI) Chemical Insights mission to provide unbiased research on chemicals and their risks to people’s health. The role focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of large research databases containing chemistry, toxicology, and exposure information. The Database Engineer ensures data reliability, performance, security, and availability, working closely with researchers, software developers, and data scientists to support data-driven research and analytical initiatives.

Requirements

• Strong working knowledge of Azure SQL, PostgreSQL and Cosmos administration, performance tuning, and backup management.
• Proficiency with Azure data tools such as Data Factory, Azure SQL Database, Synapse Analytics, and Blob Storage.
• Understanding of data pipelines, ETL/ELT processes, and basic data architecture principles.
• Proficiency in SQL and familiarity with scripting languages such as Python or PowerShell for automation.
• Knowledge of database security, access management, and compliance practices.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Self-motivated with a strong commitment to data reliability and quality.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related technical field and a minimum of 6 years of experience in database administration or data engineering; or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related technical field and a minimum of 4 years of experience in database administration or data engineering.
• Hands-on experience managing PostgreSQL, Azure SQL, and Cosmos databases in production environments.
• Familiarity with Azure data engineering tools and services.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with data pipelines and hybrid (cloud and on-premises) data environments preferred.
• Experience supporting research or analytics environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Administer and maintain Azure SQL, PostgreSQL, Cosmos databases in Azure and on-premises environments, including configuration, monitoring, tuning, patching, and upgrades.
• Manage database performance, availability, backup, and recovery to ensure operational reliability.
• Implement user access control, auditing, and database security best practices.
• Support data integration and migration between local systems and Azure platforms.
• Develop and manage data pipelines using Azure Data Factory or related tools for data ingestion and transformation.
• Assist in implementing and maintaining database solutions using Azure SQL, Cosmos, PostgreSQL, and other Azure data services.
• Collaborate with researchers, data scientists, and software engineers to ensure data systems support analytical and application requirements.
• Document database configurations, environments, and operational procedures.
• Maintain familiarity with data architecture concepts, data flows, and governance principles
• Stay informed of new releases, updates, and best practices for Azure SQL, PostgreSQL, Cosmos, and Azure data technologies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• All employees at UL Research Institutes are eligible for bonus compensation.
• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans and a generous 401k matching structure of up to 5% of eligible pay.
• Moreover, we invest an additional 4% into your retirement saving fund after your first year of continuous employment.
• Depending on your role, you may be able to discuss flexible working arrangements with your manager.
• We also provide employees with paid time off, including vacation, holiday, sick, and volunteer days.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees