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Database Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SQL Developer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$48 - $65.75/hr

The database developer also creates programs to populate and maintain the data in the department's transaction processing and data warehousing systems. This involves the creation of ETL programs ...

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, you will design ...

... developer guardrails--migration dry-runs, schema diff previews, automated health checks, performance regression detection--so engineering teams can move fast without bottlenecking on a single DBA • ...

Sharepoint Developer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$54.50 - $71.25/hr

Qualifications API, Architecture, Business Requirements, Database, Developer, Development, Genetic, Oracle, SQL, SQ Additional Information Multiple Openings

SQL developer

Folsom, CA

$48.50 - $66.25/hr

Senior SQL Database developer Job Location: Folsom, CA Duration: 6 months extendable Mandatory Skills: MS SQL Server Developer with SSIS and ETL Desired Skills: SSRS, Rally Hiring Mode : CTH USC/GC ...

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Database Developer information

See California salary details

$26

$52

$79

How much do database developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for database developer in California is $52.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.93 and $59.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do DBA jobs require coding?

Database Administrator (DBA) jobs often require some coding skills, especially for tasks like scripting, automation, and troubleshooting. While not all DBA roles involve extensive programming, knowledge of SQL and database management tools is typically essential.

Are database developers still in demand?

Database developers are still in demand as organizations rely on data management and analysis. Skills in SQL, database design, and familiarity with tools like Oracle or MySQL remain valuable, especially with increasing data-driven decision-making across industries.

What Is a Database Developer?

A database developer works in an Information Technology (IT) department creating and maintaining databases. You monitor and troubleshoot databases and run debugging processes. Responsibilities can include offering support to other departments or clients, updating systems, advising management on tech solutions and security, and managing machine data. You use computers, cloud data, applications, and programs to improve processes and streamline coding strategies. You may also have duties like presenting information to clients or upper management, and proposing and enacting system updates.

What does a database developer do?

A database developer designs, creates, and maintains databases to store and organize data efficiently. They write SQL queries, optimize database performance, and ensure data security, often using tools like SQL Server, Oracle, or MySQL. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of database management systems are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Database Developers when working on large-scale projects?

Database Developers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as optimizing query performance, ensuring data integrity, and managing database scalability. As databases grow, maintaining efficient indexing, handling concurrent access, and implementing robust backup and recovery strategies become increasingly complex. Collaboration with application developers and system administrators is essential to ensure smooth integration and to address issues related to data migration and security. Staying updated with the latest database technologies and best practices can help mitigate these challenges and contribute to project success.

Can I become a DBA with no experience?

Becoming a database administrator (DBA) typically requires experience with database management, SQL, and related tools. While a database developer role may serve as a stepping stone, gaining hands-on experience and relevant certifications such as Oracle or Microsoft SQL Server are important for transitioning into a DBA position.

What is the difference between Database Developer vs Database Administrator?

AspectDatabase DeveloperDatabase Administrator
Primary RoleDesigns, develops, and maintains database systems and applicationsManages, maintains, and secures existing databases
Skills & CertificationsSQL, PL/SQL, database design, programming skillsDatabase management, backup/recovery, security, certifications like Oracle DBA or Microsoft SQL Server
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, software projects, coding-focusedIT operations, system administration, troubleshooting
GoalsCreate efficient database solutionsEnsure database availability, performance, and security

While both roles work closely with databases, a Database Developer focuses on creating and optimizing database systems and applications, whereas a Database Administrator manages the ongoing operation, security, and maintenance of existing databases. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals for their data needs.

What are Database Developers?

Database Developers are IT professionals who design, build, and maintain databases to ensure efficient data storage, retrieval, and security. They work with various database management systems (DBMS) like SQL Server, Oracle, or MySQL, writing code to create database structures, queries, procedures, and triggers. Their role is vital for organizations that rely on large amounts of data, as they optimize database performance and support the integration of applications with databases.

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

To thrive as a Database Developer, you need expertise in database design, SQL programming, and data modeling, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with relational database management systems (such as SQL Server, Oracle, or MySQL), ETL tools, and relevant certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These skills ensure the development of robust, scalable, and secure database solutions that support organizational data needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Database Developer jobs in California? The most popular types of Database Developer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Database Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Database Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Database Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Database Developer job openings:
Principal Database Developer/Kernel and Query Optimization

Principal Database Developer/Kernel and Query Optimization

Oracle

Redwood City, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Oracle rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 134 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 191 rated software companies


Job description

Job Description
We are looking for a strong Database Developer who will be responsible for the research, design, and development of advanced features in the query optimizer component of Oracle Database. Additionally, you can be adding autonomous features and self learning and ML capabilities in keeping the query optimizer on the leading edge with respect to the competing database systems.
Our vision is to make Oracle query optimizer the most advanced yet easiest to use in the industry but most importantly continue to have fun achieving it
The team members have a strong research background and strive to bring the most advanced ideas to market in the latest versions of Oracle RDBMS. The group actively participates in collaborative manner of designing cross-group features like data partition pruning, zone map pruning, bloom filtering and pruning, database in-memory costing and optimization, JSON and XML document processing. Our team is heavily involved in the creation of automatic features (e.g. auto SQL plan management, auto indexing, auto error mitigation) for On-Prem databases and Autonomous Database announced by Larry Ellison at the Oracle Open World in Oct 2017. The group actively participates in customer and standard industry benchmark efforts. The group owns a large patent portfolio reflecting the ownership of many state-of-the-art innovations.
Qualifications:
The candidate must have the following:
  1. 6+ years of industry experience
  2. knowledge of SQL databases
  3. knowledge of how SQL is processed by kernel
  4. systems programming experience
  5. kernel software development

Highly desirable:
  1. knowledge of SQL query optimization

Responsibilities
As a member of the software engineering division, you will take an active role in researching, designing and development aspect of the Oracle Database kernel code in general and query optimizer code in particular. In addition, you will be responsible for the maintenance of optimizer code such as bug fixes and functional enhancements in addressing customer issues and functional requests.
Qualifications
Disclaimer:
Certain US customer or client-facing roles may be required to comply with applicable requirements, such as immunization and occupational health mandates.
Range and benefit information provided in this posting are specific to the stated locations only
US: Hiring Range in USD from: $96,800 to $223,400 per annum. May be eligible for bonus and equity.
Oracle maintains broad salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions and locations, as well as reflect Oracle's differing products, industries and lines of business.
Candidates are typically placed into the range based on the preceding factors as well as internal peer equity.
Oracle US offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following:
1. Medical, dental, and vision insurance, including expert medical opinion
2. Short term disability and long term disability
3. Life insurance and AD&D
4. Supplemental life insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)
5. Health care and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts
6. Pre-tax commuter and parking benefits
7. 401(k) Savings and Investment Plan with company match
8. Paid time off: Flexible Vacation is provided to all eligible employees assigned to a salaried (non-overtime eligible) position. Accrued Vacation is provided to all other employees eligible for vacation benefits. For employees working at least 35 hours per week, the vacation accrual rate is 13 days annually for the first three years of employment and 18 days annually for subsequent years of employment. Vacation accrual is prorated for employees working between 20 and 34 hours per week. Employees working fewer than 20 hours per week are not eligible for vacation.
9. 11 paid holidays
10. Paid sick leave: 72 hours of paid sick leave upon date of hire. Refreshes each calendar year. Unused balance will carry over each year up to a maximum cap of 112 hours.
11. Paid parental leave
12. Adoption assistance
13. Employee Stock Purchase Plan
14. Financial planning and group legal
15. Voluntary benefits including auto, homeowner and pet insurance
The role will generally accept applications for at least three calendar days from the posting date or as long as the job remains posted.
Career Level - IC4
About Us
Only Oracle brings together the data, infrastructure, applications, and expertise to power everything from industry innovations to life-saving care. And with AI embedded across our products and services, we help customers turn that promise into a better future for all. Discover your potential at a company leading the way in AI and cloud solutions that impact billions of lives.
True innovation starts when everyone is empowered to contribute. That's why we're committed to growing a workforce that promotes opportunities for all with competitive benefits that support our people with flexible medical, life insurance, and retirement options. We also encourage employees to give back to their communities through our volunteer programs.
We're committed to including people with disabilities at all stages of the employment process. If you require accessibility assistance or accommodation for a disability at any point, let us know by emailing accommodation-request_mb@oracle.com or by calling 1-888-404-2494 in the United States.
Oracle is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability and protected veterans' status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Oracle will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records pursuant to applicable law.

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About Oracle

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

An Oracle career can span industries, roles, Countries and cultures, giving you the opportunity to flourish in new roles and innovate, while blending work life in. Oracle has thrived through 40+ years of change by innovating and operating with integrity while delivering for the top companies in almost every industry. In order to nurture the talent that makes this happen, we are committed to an inclusive culture that celebrates and values diverse insights and perspectives, a workforce that inspires thought leadership and innovation. Oracle offers a highly competitive suite of Employee Benefits designed on the principles of parity, consistency, and affordability. The overall package includes certain core elements such as Medical, Life Insurance, access to Retirement Planning, and much more. We also encourage our employees to engage in the culture of giving back to the communities where we live and do business. At Oracle, we believe that innovation starts with diversity and inclusion and to create the future we need talent from various backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to successfully participate in the job application, interview process, and in potential roles. to perform crucial job functions. That's why we're committed to creating a workforce where all individuals can do their best work. It's when everyone's voice is heard and valued that we're inspired to go beyond what's been done before.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Redwood City, CA, US

Year founded

1977

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