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Lead Database Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Jobsbridge

Oracle Solution Architect

Sacramento, CA

... lead, and technical manger roles (prefer for them to have a majority of their experience with consulting companies vs contracting) Solid experience with database programming ; Strong database ...

Jobsbridge

Oracle Solution Architect

Sacramento, CA

... lead, and technical manger roles (prefer for them to have a majority of their experience with consulting companies vs contracting) Solid experience with database programming ; Strong database ...

QuidelOrtho

Senior Database Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · Remote

$112K - $152K/yr

Join our mission as our next Senior Database Design Engineer to join our R&D Instrument Platforms ... Lead query optimization and performance tuning, including execution plan analysis, indexing ...

Pop-Up Talent

Database Architect

Santa Clara, CA

$75.25 - $96.75/hr

Salary is open to discuss depending on skills and experience We are seeking an experienced Database Architect with experience in systems engineering to lead the design, optimization, and governance ...

Pop-Up Talent

Database Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$126K - $160K/yr

Salary is open to discuss depending on skills and experience We are seeking an experienced Database Architect with experience in systems engineering to lead the design, optimization, and governance ...

Apple

Senior Product Manager - Databases

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$156K - $206K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Product Manager to lead database services for Apple Cloud. This role ... Platform intelligence built with AI and GenAI tools that helps developers troubleshoot and optimize ...

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All JobsLead Database Developer JobsLead Database Developer Jobs in California

Lead Database Developer information

See California salary details

$95.2K

$130.9K

$211.7K

How much do lead database developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead database developer in California is $130,870.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,500.00 and $133,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do database developers make?

Database developers typically earn a median annual salary of around $90,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in SQL, NoSQL, or cloud platforms can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000 annually.

Are database developers still in demand?

Database developers remain in demand due to ongoing needs for data management, system optimization, and integration across industries. Skills in SQL, database design, and familiarity with tools like Oracle or MySQL are highly valued, and the role often requires staying current with emerging technologies such as cloud databases and data security. The job outlook is positive with consistent growth expected in data-driven environments.

Is a DBA job in demand?

A Lead Database Developer role is in high demand due to the increasing reliance on data management and analysis across industries. Skills in SQL, database design, and experience with cloud platforms enhance job prospects, and demand is expected to grow as organizations prioritize data-driven decision-making.

What is the difference between Lead Database Developer vs Database Administrator?

AspectLead Database DeveloperDatabase Administrator
Primary FocusDesigning, developing, and optimizing database systems and applicationsMaintaining, securing, and ensuring the performance of existing databases
Skills & CertificationsSQL, database design, programming, possibly certifications like Oracle Certified ProfessionalDatabase management, backup/recovery, security, certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, project-based roles, software companiesIT departments, enterprise environments, ongoing system maintenance

While both roles work closely with databases, the Lead Database Developer primarily focuses on creating and optimizing database solutions, whereas the Database Administrator manages the day-to-day operation, security, and maintenance of databases. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals for their database needs.

Is SQL in demand in 2026?

SQL remains a fundamental skill for a Lead Database Developer, with strong demand expected due to ongoing reliance on relational databases across industries. Proficiency in SQL, along with knowledge of database management systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, or SQL Server, continues to be essential for data-driven roles in 2026.

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

To thrive as a Lead Database Developer, you need advanced skills in database design, SQL programming, performance tuning, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Expertise with database management systems such as Oracle, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL, and certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate are often required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential for guiding teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure robust, high-performing databases that meet business needs and support organizational growth.

What are Lead Database Developers?

Lead Database Developers are senior professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex database systems within an organization. They oversee a team of database developers, set best practices, and ensure the security, scalability, and efficiency of data storage and retrieval. Their role often involves collaborating with other departments to understand data requirements and supporting business goals through technical solutions. Additionally, they may be involved in performance tuning, troubleshooting, and integrating new technologies into existing systems.

What are some common challenges Lead Database Developers face when managing large-scale database projects?

Lead Database Developers often encounter challenges such as balancing performance optimization with data integrity, coordinating database changes across multiple development teams, and ensuring robust security measures are in place. Managing database migrations and scaling solutions to handle increasing data volumes can also be complex, especially in environments that demand high availability. Effective communication with stakeholders and aligning database strategies with business needs are crucial for overcoming these challenges.
What are popular job titles related to Lead Database Developer jobs in California? For Lead Database Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Database Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Database Developer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Lead Database Developer jobs in CA? For Lead Database Developer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lead Database Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Database Developer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 37% Full Time, 53% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,870 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Database Architect - SQL Server (AWS Migration)

Purple Drive Technologies

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Overview:
Role: Database Architect - SQL Server (AWS Migration)
Location: Irvine, CA (Onsite)
Experience: 8-12 Years
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Database Architect with deep expertise in Microsoft SQL Server and AWS cloud migration. The ideal candidate will lead database modernization initiatives, including migrating SQL Server environments from on-premises data centers to AWS. This role requires strong hands-on experience in database administration, performance tuning, high availability, and enterprise-scale migration programs.
Key Responsibilities
Database Architecture & Migration
  • Lead and execute migration of SQL Server databases from on-premises environments to AWS EC2
  • Assess current database environments and define migration, upgrade, and optimization strategies
  • Design target-state database architecture aligned with AWS best practices
  • Support data center exit and cloud transformation initiatives
SQL Server Administration & Performance
  • Perform installation, configuration, patching, upgrades, and performance tuning of SQL Server
  • Optimize database performance, query execution, and resource utilization
  • Conduct performance benchmarking and validation post-migration
High Availability & Disaster Recovery
  • Implement and manage HA/DR solutions including:
    • Always On Availability Groups
    • Failover Clustering
    • Backup and Restore strategies
  • Ensure business continuity and minimal downtime during migration
Cloud Infrastructure & Integration
  • Work with AWS services including:
    • EC2, EBS, S3, IAM, CloudWatch, VPC
  • Support hybrid environments during transition from on-prem to cloud
  • Collaborate with application teams supporting Java and .NET workloads
  • Ensure seamless integration with middleware systems such as TIBCO ESB
Security & Compliance
  • Implement database security controls including access management, encryption, and auditing
  • Ensure compliance with enterprise security and governance standards
Collaboration & Documentation
  • Coordinate with infrastructure, cloud, DevOps, and application teams
  • Document database architecture, configurations, and operational procedures
  • Support testing, validation, troubleshooting, and hypercare activities
Required Skills
Database Expertise
  • Strong hands-on experience with Microsoft SQL Server in enterprise environments
  • Expertise in:
    • Database tuning and optimization
    • SQL performance troubleshooting
    • Installation, upgrades, and patching
Cloud & Migration
  • Hands-on experience with SQL Server on AWS EC2
  • Strong understanding of AWS services:
    • EC2, EBS, S3, IAM, CloudWatch, VPC
  • Experience in on-prem to AWS migration programs
High Availability & Infrastructure
  • Deep knowledge of:
    • Always On Availability Groups
    • Failover Clustering
    • Backup and Recovery strategies
  • Experience with Windows Server environments (2016/2019/2022/2025)
Technical & Integration Skills
  • Knowledge of hybrid architectures and cloud networking
  • Experience supporting applications built on Java and .NET
  • Familiarity with middleware such as TIBCO ESB
  • Strong SQL and database troubleshooting skills
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with Infrastructure as Code (Terraform or similar tools)
  • Exposure to DevOps and CI/CD pipelines for database deployments
  • Experience in large-scale enterprise migration or data center exit programs
  • AWS or Microsoft SQL Server certifications

Apply