Principal Database Engineer

As a Principal Database Engineer at PeopleGrove, your role will involve leading the design, optimization, and reliability of the database systems. You will be responsible for architecting scalable solutions aligned with business needs, designing schemas and data models, and evaluating database technologies for long-term scalability. Additionally, you will monitor production databases for inefficiencies, conduct performance tuning, and provide technical guidance on data access patterns and schema evolution. Key Responsibilities: - Architect scalable and efficient database solutions in alignment with business needs - Design schemas, data models, indexing, and partitioning strategies to support growth and performance - Evaluate and recommend database technologies and patterns for long-term scalability - Monitor production databases for slow queries, inefficiencies, and bottlenecks - Conduct root cause analysis and implement tuning solutions - Define repeatable processes for performance reviews and query optimization - Partner with engineers to review database usage in applications - Provide technical guidance on data access patterns, query design, and schema evolution - Implement monitoring, alerting, and health-check frameworks for database reliability - Oversee backup strategies, replication, and disaster recovery planning - Maintain strong database security and access control policies Core Technologies: - Relational: PostgreSQL, MySQL - Search & Analytics: Elasticsearch, BigQuery, Snowflake - NoSQL / Cloud-native: Firestore, MongoDB Qualifications Required: - 8 years of experience in database engineering or administration, with at least 5 years in a performance-focused role - Deep expertise in PostgreSQL and MySQL, including indexing, query optimization, and performance tuning - Proven experience with monitoring and profiling tools for database performance - Strong understanding of database security, backup strategies, and disaster recovery - Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with cloud platforms (GCP, AWS, Azure) - Exposure to data warehousing and large-scale analytics platforms - Familiarity with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines - Experience in SaaS environments with high uptime and performance requirements At PeopleGrove, we offer a remote work option, reimbursement of home office setup, competitive salary, and a friendly atmosphere. We are an equal opportunity workplace that celebrates and supports diversity. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at careers@peoplegrove.com.,