1

Database Designer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Experience * 3-5 years' experience as a Database Engineer, Data Architect, or similar role, with hands-on experience in designing and implementing data solutions. * Proficiency in programming ...

Experience * 3-5 years' experience as a Database Engineer, Data Architect, or similar role, with hands-on experience in designing and implementing data solutions. * Proficiency in programming ...

Sr IT Architect- Database

Brentwood, TN · On-site

$63.75 - $85.25/hr

Collaborate with software engineers, data analysts, and business stakeholders to understand data needs and translate them into robust database designs * Evaluate and recommend new database ...

Collaborate with software engineers, data analysts, and business stakeholders to understand data needs and translate them into robust database designs * Evaluate and recommend new database ...

Senior IT Architect- Database

Brentwood, TN · Remote

$63.75 - $85.25/hr

Collaborate with software engineers, data analysts, and business stakeholders to understand data needs and translate them into robust database designs * Evaluate and recommend new database ...

... designs are tested, documented, and entered in the appropriate ... databases. * Assist with the creation of physical prototypes for review against design criteria and ...

Our Nashville, Tennessee (TN) office is looking for a Civil CAD Operator or Designer with 8+ years ... Maintains drawing database * Will supervise and train CAD staff * Coordinates work activities to ...

Overview Our Nashville, Tennessee (TN) office is looking for a Civil CAD Operator or Designer with ... Maintains drawing database * Will supervise and train CAD staff * Coordinates work activities to ...

Overview Our Nashville, Tennessee (TN) office is looking for a Civil CAD Operator or Designer with ... Maintains drawing database * Will supervise and train CAD staff * Coordinates work activities to ...

Overview Our Nashville, Tennessee (TN) office is looking for a Civil CAD Operator or Designer with ... Maintains drawing database * Will supervise and train CAD staff * Coordinates work activities to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Database Designer information

See Tennessee salary details

$44

$58

$71

How much do database designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for database designer in Tennessee is $58.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.60 and $64.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Can I become a database designer with no experience?

Becoming a database designer typically requires knowledge of database management systems, data modeling, and SQL, which can be learned through self-study, online courses, or formal education. Entry-level positions may be available to those with strong analytical skills and a willingness to learn, but gaining experience through internships or certifications can improve job prospects.
Infographic showing various Database Designer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,772 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Database Engineer

SOUTH COLLEGE

Knoxville, TN • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


South College rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description

Database Engineer


Benefits:

  • Front Loaded PTO
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401(k) - with Employer Contribution

South College - We are one of the nation's fastest growing institutions of higher learning ... come grow your career with us. In order to fully meet our Mission to our students, we require a diverse combination of perspectives, backgrounds, life experiences, and ideas from our faculty and staff and will provide them with an equitable and inclusive work environment -where respect and open interchange of ideas are at the heart of that culture.


20,000 Students

10 Campuses

Competency Based Education

Online


Database Engineer Description:


Position Overview


At South College, we are committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in their careers. As a data engineer on our team, you'll play a key role in helping us harness the power of data to improve student outcomes, optimize operations, and drive innovation. You'll have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment while continuing to grow and advance in your career. The Database Engineer (DBA) is responsible for the design, implementation, security, maintenance, and performance optimization of the college's databases and related systems. This role supports administrative, academic, and student-facing systems by ensuring data integrity, availability, and security. The DBA will collaborate with IT staff, institutional research, and various campus departments to ensure that data systems effectively support institutional goals and compliance requirements.


If you're passionate about technology and want to make an impact at a forward-thinking institution, we encourage you to apply!


Key Responsibilities:


Data Warehouse Management & Architecture

  • Design, build, and maintain the college's data warehouse (schemas, dimensions, fact tables) to support institutional reporting and analytics.
  • Develop and manage ETL/ELT pipelines to consolidate data from source systems into the warehouse.
  • Install, configure, and maintain database management systems (e.g., SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL) supporting the warehouse and operational databases.

Query Performance Tuning & Optimization

  • Analyze query execution plans and implement indexing, partitioning, and query rewrite strategies to resolve bottlenecks.
  • Tune database and warehouse performance to support high-volume reporting and analytics workloads.
  • Establish performance benchmarks and monitoring to detect and address degradation proactively.

Data Security & Integrity

  • Implement and maintain security protocols safeguarding student, employee, and institutional data per FERPA and other regulations.
  • Manage access controls and monitor database/warehouse activity for unauthorized use.
  • Ensure compliance with institutional policies and accreditation requirements.

Data Integration & Reporting

  • Support integrations between the SIS, LMS, CRM, and other applications, feeding the MDM framework and data warehouse.
  • Maintain documentation for warehouse architecture, MDM processes, and database procedures.
  • Partner with BI/reporting teams to ensure the warehouse supports dashboards and institutional research needs.

System Development & Collaboration

  • Work with developers and vendors to optimize database-driven applications and warehouse performance.
  • Participate in system upgrades, migrations, and new software implementations affecting the warehouse and MDM.
  • Automate data quality checks, ETL jobs, and MDM matching routines.

Requirements

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Systems, Statistics, or a related field.

Experience

  • 3-5 years' experience as a Database Engineer, Data Architect, or similar role, with hands-on experience in designing and implementing data solutions.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, SQL, or Scala, with experience in data manipulation, transformation, and analysis.
  • Strong understanding of database systems, data modeling, and ETL principles, with experience in relational databases (e.g., MS SQL Server, MySQL) and NoSQL databases
  • Experience working with cloud platforms and services (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, Kafka).
  • Familiarity with data visualization tools and BI platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and statistical analysis tools (e.g., R, Python libraries).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage complex data engineering projects.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Preferred

  • Experience in the education sector or knowledge of academic systems and processes is a plus

What South College employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom