SQL Server and Infrastructure EngineerNorthampton (Rural High-Tech Site) Full Time Permanent Office BasedThe OpportunityMy client is a UK based innovator in advanced security and intelligence technology, designing and manufacturing products that are trusted by law enforcement and government agencies around the world. From Technical Surveillance Counter Measures (TSCM) and lawful interception to border security and specialist training, they deliver mission-critical solutions with precision and integrity. Their products have recently been recognised with a prestigious international industry award at a major counterespionage conference in the US. These are people at the very top of their field.They are now looking for a Database and Infrastructure Engineer to join their team at their rural high-tech headquarters near Northampton. This is a unique role that bridges Database Administration and Systems Engineering, built for someone who thrives on variety, ownership and real technical challenge. Please note this is a fully office based position and due to the rural location your own transport is essential.The RoleYou'll be responsible for the heartbeat of their customer platforms, keeping complex, high-availability systems running 24/7 for clients who simply cannot afford downtime. This is far more than a maintenance position. You'll be optimising performance, designing resilient architectures, and on occasion travelling internationally to support client deployments.Key ResponsibilitiesDatabase Mastery: Performance-tuning and maintaining Microsoft SQL Server (Availability Groups and Replication), ensuring rock-solid reliability across all environments.Infrastructure Resilience: Configuring firewalls, VPNs and networking to deliver seamless, secure connectivity at all times.Virtualisation: Managing vCenter and vSphere environments that host mission-critical applications.Client Support: Providing technical expertise for internal systems and occasionally supporting international client installations when needed.Best Practice: Documenting processes and maintaining a standard of excellence across every deployment.What They're Looking ForYou're a pragmatic problem-solver who enjoys the variety of managing both the data and the infrastructure it lives on. You don't need to be handed a task list. You spot what needs doing and you get on with it.Essential ExperienceStrong proficiency in Microsoft SQL Server and preferably, but not essentially, also MySQL, with solid High Availability knowledge including Clusters, Replication and Galera. A firm understanding of networking and security (firewalls, VPN configuration), hands-on VMware experience (vSphere and vCenter), and a full UK driving licence. As the site is rurally located, your own transport is a must.Nice to HaveExposure to Neo4J or cloud technologies, knowledge of Linux (Ubuntu) and Active Directory, an interest in IoT protocols such as MQTT or LoRaWAN, IP camera systems, or experience delivering technical training to non-technical audiences.Why This Role?This is an environment where innovation is genuinely rewarded and your contribution is visible. The package reflects that.Reward: Competitive salary plus a Class A share reward scheme for exceptional contributors, company pension and financial planning services.Growth: Structured mentoring and a clear pathway into broader Cyber Security or Lead Infrastructure roles.Culture: A collaborative, open-door team where your voice carries real weight, built on three simple values: collaborative, supportive, innovative.Wellbeing: Health and wellbeing programme and free on-site parking.Purpose: You'll be working on award-winning, UK-designed products that have a genuine real-world impact on global security. Secure Today. Protect Tomorrow.Next StepsIf you're looking for more variety, more responsibility and more meaning than a standard DBA or SysAdmin role can offer, we'd love to hear from you.