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Database Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SQL DBA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$53 - $66.25/hr

Designs, develops and maintains city databases hosted on various database servers that serve applications across all departments. * Troubleshoots database performance problems and provides solutions ...

As a Database Engineer at Client, you will design, build, and operate scalable, secure data stores ... Collaborate with application developers to optimize schema designs and SQL. * Troubleshoot ...

The Database Developer is responsible for designing, developing, maintaining, and optimizing the organization's databases, data pipelines, and reporting infrastructure. This role ensures data ...

Database Developer

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Database Developer is responsible for designing, developing, maintaining, and optimizing the organization's databases, data pipelines, and reporting infrastructure. This role ensures data ...

Database Developer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33.50 - $43.50/hr

The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining database solutions and maintaining data governance. Daily duties will be focused on maintaining data ...

... Databases power some of the most demanding workloads on the planet - from global banking transactions to real-time gaming leaderboards to AI training pipelines. We're looking for a Senior UX Designer ...

Database Administrator III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

Salary: $115k-$160k (depending on experience) The Database Administrator III supports the Navy by designing, implementing, and maintaining enterprise database systems supporting global Live Virtual ...

Salary: $115k-$160k (depending on experience) The Database Administrator III supports the Navy by designing, implementing, and maintaining enterprise database systems supporting global Live Virtual ...

Senior DBA

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$160K - $175K/yr

Stabilize and Build Lead stabilization of existing database systems while designing and implementing new capabilities as the platform evolves. * Performance and Reliability Design schemas, optimize ...

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Database Designer information

See California salary details

$47

$63

$77

How much do database designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for database designer in California is $63.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57.16 and $70.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges database designers face when collaborating with software development teams?

Database designers often work closely with software developers to ensure that data structures align with application requirements. A common challenge is balancing optimal database performance with the flexibility developers need for evolving features. Communication is key, as misunderstandings about data relationships or normalization can lead to inefficient queries or data redundancy. Regular meetings, clear documentation, and the use of collaborative tools help bridge these gaps and result in a robust, scalable database design.

What is the difference between Database Designer vs Database Administrator?

AspectDatabase DesignerDatabase Administrator
Primary RoleDesigns database structures and schemasMaintains, secures, and optimizes databases
Skills & CertificationsData modeling, SQL, ER diagramsDatabase management, security, backup/recovery
Work EnvironmentDesign phase, project-basedOperational, ongoing management
Industry UsageUsed during initial database developmentUsed for daily database operations

While both roles work with databases, the Database Designer focuses on creating the structure and schema, whereas the Database Administrator manages and maintains the database systems on a daily basis. They often collaborate but serve different functions within database management.

What does a Database Designer do?

A Database Designer is responsible for planning, creating, and managing the structure of databases that store and organize data for organizations. They analyze data requirements, design database models, and ensure that databases are efficient, secure, and scalable. Database Designers work closely with developers and system administrators to implement and maintain database systems that support business operations. Their work is essential for ensuring data integrity and supporting the performance of applications that rely on databases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Database Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Database Designer, you need expertise in database modeling, SQL, and a strong understanding of data architecture principles, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with relational database management systems (RDBMS) like Oracle, MySQL, or Microsoft SQL Server, and certifications such as Oracle Certified Professional or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate are valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and translate business requirements into efficient designs. These skills ensure that databases are robust, scalable, and aligned with organizational goals, which is critical for data integrity and business operations.

What Is a Database Designer?

A database designer develops computer programs that store data and automate specific tasks. When beginning a project, database designers define the scope and establish the database parameters. Plans may include indexes and constraints that allow users or other designers to access the content easily and implement proper database administration protocols. Designers often work as part of large development teams that include software designers, information technology technicians, and other data scientists.

What are popular job titles related to Database Designer jobs in California? For Database Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Database Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Database Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Database Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Database Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Database Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,409 per year, or $63.7 per hour.

Database Engineer

Vertex Sigma Software

Foster City, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Database Engineer Onsite in Foster City, CA | 5 days in office 40 hour work week but must be open to flexible hours (i.e. before or after typical business hours) As a Database Engineer at Sigma Software Vertex, you will design, build, and operate scalable, secure data stores that power our applications and analytics. Youll 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. In this role, you will: ● 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. Nice to have: ● 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).

Benefits

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)

Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

Training & Development

Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)

Free breakfast and lunch