1

Database Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Database Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$113K - $154K/yr

Database Engineer Employment Type: C2C Location: Irvine, CA- ONSITE Client is looking for a Sr. Database Engineer to be a technical authority and lead designer of our high-performance data ...

Payactiv is seeking an experienced Database Developer to join their dynamic Engineering team. You will play a crucial role in developing, testing, improving, and maintaining both new and existing ...

Work with software developers to troubleshoot and improve database related tools/applications. * Train users in database concepts and usage of database related tool/applications. * Develop ...

Staff Database Engineer I) with experience managing large-scale, mission-critical environments that require zero downtime. As part of the SHEIN DBRE team, you will play a key role in ensuring the ...

Senior Database Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$124K - $169K/yr

As a Senior Database Engineer for the Data Engineering team, you will maintain and enhance the reliability of our data infrastructure. Your work will directly impact the availability and performance ...

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Sr. Database Engineer in our National Security Sector's (NSS) Cyber & Analytics Business Area (CABA) . Our talented team is at the forefront in ...

Staff Database Engineer I) with experience managing large-scale, mission-critical environments that require zero downtime. As part of the SHEIN DBRE team, you will play a key role in ensuring the ...

Work with software developers to troubleshoot and improve database related tools/applications. * Train users in database concepts and usage of database related tool/applications. * Develop ...

Sr. Database Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Sr. Database Engineer in our National Security Sector's (NSS) Cyber & Analytics Business Area (CABA) . Our talented team is at the forefront in ...

Senior Database Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$114K - $155K/yr

As a Senior Database Engineer for the Data Engineering team, you will maintain and enhance the reliability of our data infrastructure. Your work will directly impact the availability and performance ...

Database Developer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$175K - $195K/yr

$175,000 - $195,000 a year Payactiv is seeking an experienced Database Developer to join our dynamic Engineering team. You will play a crucial role in developing, testing, improving, and maintaining ...

Database Developer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$175K - $195K/yr

$175,000 - $195,000 a year Payactiv is seeking an experienced Database Developer to join our dynamic Engineering team. You will play a crucial role in developing, testing, improving, and maintaining ...

Payactiv is seeking an experienced Database Developer to join our dynamic Engineering team. You will play a crucial role in developing, testing, improving, and maintaining both new and existing ...

Senior Database Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $190K/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Senior Database Engineer to support the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of database systems for a high-visibility Department of ...

Senior Database Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Senior Database Engineer to support the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of database systems for a high-visibility Department of ...

The Database Engineer, Senior will work closely with the engineering team members to design, develop and enhance Microsoft SQL Server and PostgreSQL database solutions. Duties & Responsibilities:

Senior Database Engineer

San Diego, CA

$107K - $146K/yr

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Senior Database Engineer to support the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of database systems for a high-visibility Department of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Database Programmer information

See California salary details

$21

$43

$78

How much do database programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for database programmer in California is $43.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.22 and $43.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do database programmers make?

Database programmers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled programmers with knowledge of SQL, database management systems, and programming languages like Python or Java tend to have higher earning potential.

How does a Database Programmer typically collaborate with other IT professionals during a project?

Database Programmers often work closely with software developers, system administrators, and business analysts to design, implement, and maintain databases that support various applications. Collaboration usually involves gathering requirements, integrating databases with front-end applications, and troubleshooting performance issues together. Being proactive in communication and documentation is essential, as projects often require aligning database functionalities with broader technical and business goals. Regular meetings and code reviews are common, helping ensure that solutions are robust and scalable.

What Is a Database Programmer?

Database programmers maintain a company’s database and ensure the stored information is secure. Some database programmers may design databases from scratch, but most companies use an established commercial database, such as the ones offered by Oracle, IBM, or Microsoft. The job duties of a database programmer include writing Structured Query Language (SQL) queries, generating data reports, and troubleshooting storage issues.

Is a DBA job in demand?

Database Administrator (DBA) jobs are in high demand due to the increasing reliance on data management and security across industries. Skills in SQL, database design, and cloud platforms enhance employability, and many organizations seek experienced DBAs to maintain and optimize their data systems.

What is the difference between Database Programmer vs Database Developer?

AspectDatabase ProgrammerDatabase Developer
CredentialsTypically requires programming skills, SQL certifications, and knowledge of database languagesOften requires similar credentials, with additional focus on database design and architecture
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily with coding, scripting, and database maintenance in IT or software companiesInvolves designing, developing, and optimizing databases in various industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech firms, finance, healthcare, and any industry relying on data managementCommon in software development, data analysis, and enterprise IT sectors

While both roles involve working with databases, a Database Programmer mainly focuses on coding and maintaining database scripts, whereas a Database Developer is more involved in designing and developing database systems. The roles often overlap, but the developer typically has broader responsibilities in database architecture and optimization.

Can I become a DBA with no experience?

Becoming a database administrator (DBA) typically requires some experience with database management, SQL, and related tools. Entry-level positions may be available to those with strong technical skills, certifications, or related IT experience, but most DBAs gain expertise through hands-on work and training over time.

What does a database programmer do?

A database programmer designs, develops, and maintains database systems to store, organize, and retrieve data efficiently. They write code using languages like SQL and work with database management systems such as Oracle or MySQL, often collaborating with developers and analysts to optimize data performance and security.

What is a Database Programmer?

A Database Programmer is a specialized software developer who designs, implements, and maintains databases to store and organize data efficiently. They write code, often using languages like SQL, to create database structures, queries, and procedures that support data-driven applications. Database Programmers also ensure data integrity, optimize performance, and may collaborate with other IT professionals to integrate databases with applications. Their role is essential in managing the flow and security of information within an organization.

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

To thrive as a Database Programmer, you need strong proficiency in database design, SQL programming, and a solid understanding of data modeling, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with database management systems like Oracle, MySQL, or Microsoft SQL Server, as well as certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate, are highly beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure reliable database performance, efficient data handling, and successful collaboration with development teams and stakeholders.
What are popular job titles related to Database Programmer jobs in California? For Database Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Database Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Database Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Database Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Database Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Database Programmer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,133 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Sr. Database Engineer

Guru Schools

Irvine, CA • On-site

$113K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

Overview:
Title: Sr.Database Engineer
Employment Type: C2C
Location: Irvine, CA- ONSITE
Client is looking for a Sr. Database Engineer to be a technical authority and lead designer of our high-performance data environments. You are a "builder" who views databases as code-equally skilled at deep SQL performance tuning as you are at building automated deployment pipelines for global-scale clusters.
You thrive on the challenge of high-stakes, large-scale data systems. As a key client-facing expert, you will guide our clients away from legacy "babysitting" models toward modern, self-healing, cloud-native database architectures on AWS.
What You'll Do
  • Architect Scalable Data Systems: Design and oversee the implementation of enterprise-scale relational (RDS, Aurora) and NoSQL (DynamoDB, DocumentDB) database architectures.
  • Engineer Database Automation: Develop "Database-as-Code" using Terraform or CloudFormation to automate provisioning, scaling, and recovery processes across multi-region environments.
  • Optimize for Performance: Act as the final authority on complex performance tuning, including query optimization, indexing strategies, and hardware-level bottleneck analysis.
  • Modernize for AI: Design and implement specialized data storage solutions, such as vector databases (Amazon OpenSearch, pgvector), to support Generative AI and RAG-based applications.
  • Set the Standards: Define and enforce best practices for data modeling, security (encryption at rest/transit), and high-availability/disaster recovery (RPO/RTO) across the practice.
  • Lead & Mentor: Act as a technical mentor for junior engineers, leading deep-dive design reviews and fostering a culture of operational excellence.

What You Bring (Requirements)
  • Professional Experience: 8-12+ years in database administration or engineering, with at least 4+ years in a Senior Engineering role focusing on cloud environments.
  • AWS Database Mastery: Expert-level knowledge of the AWS database ecosystem (Aurora, RDS, DynamoDB, Redshift).
  • Coding & Scripting: Proven mastery of Python and Advanced SQL for automation and sophisticated data manipulation.
  • Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Deep experience with Terraform or AWS CDK to manage database infrastructure.
  • Data Modeling: Expert-level understanding of both relational and non-relational data modeling techniques.
  • Client-Facing Excellence: Exceptional skills in leading technical workshops and translating ambiguous business needs into high-performance technical designs.
  • Startup Mentality: A "builder" mindset with a focus on impact, ownership, and the agility to solve "unsolvable" technical challenges.

Bonus Points (Nice-to-Haves)
  • Certifications: AWS Certified Database - Specialty or AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional.
  • AI/ML Fluency: Experience with vector databases and preparing data pipelines for LLM integration.
  • Consulting Background: Experience in a Professional Services or global consulting environment.

Skills:
Engineering Data Management,Cloud Development