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Lead Database Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

K2 Space

Senior Application Data Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$114K - $155K/yr

... Lead data architecture designs, drive data optimization, ensure data integrity and accuracy. • ... databases such as MS SQL, PostgreSQL, Snowflake. • 5+ years of in-depth experience with hosted ...

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All JobsLead Database Engineer JobsLead Database Engineer Jobs in California

Lead Database Engineer information

See California salary details

$59.7K

$120.5K

$165.3K

How much do lead database engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead database engineer in California is $120,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,200.00 and $138,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead database engineer?

Lead Database Engineers are senior professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex database systems within an organization. They oversee database architecture, ensure data security and integrity, and manage a team of database engineers or administrators. Their role often includes optimizing performance, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with other IT departments to support business needs. Lead Database Engineers also play a key part in setting best practices and ensuring compliance with data regulations.

How does a lead database engineer typically collaborate with development and operations teams?

A Lead Database Engineer works closely with both development and operations teams to ensure databases are optimally designed, secure, and highly available. They often participate in architecture discussions, provide guidance on best practices for data modeling, and help troubleshoot performance issues during application development. Additionally, they coordinate with DevOps to automate database deployments and backups, ensure compliance with data governance policies, and facilitate smooth rollouts and migrations. This cross-functional collaboration is crucial for maintaining data integrity and supporting the scalability needs of the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead database engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Database Engineer, you need deep expertise in database architecture, data modeling, performance tuning, and a strong background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with major database management systems (such as Oracle, MySQL, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL), cloud platforms, and certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator are highly valuable. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help drive team success and stakeholder collaboration. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring database reliability, scalability, and alignment with organizational goals.

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

AspectLead Database EngineerDatabase Administrator
CredentialsBS/MS in Computer Science or related field, certifications like Oracle Certified ProfessionalBS in Computer Science, certifications like Microsoft Certified Database Administrator
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, and optimizing database systems, often in collaborative teamsMaintaining, backing up, and securing databases, ensuring system stability
Industry UsageUsed in tech, finance, healthcare for database development and architectureCommon across industries for database maintenance and support
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in database development and architectureFocus on database maintenance and operational support

The Lead Database Engineer primarily focuses on designing and developing database systems, while the Database Administrator manages and maintains existing databases. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in database management, but they differ in scope and responsibilities within organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Database Engineer jobs in California?

For Lead Database Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Database Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Database Engineer jobs in California are:

Lead Database Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Database Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,513 per year, or $57.9 per hour.

Senior Cloud Operations Engineer - DBA

Irvine, CA • On-site

TP-Link Systems Inc.
See more jobs at TP-Link Systems Inc.external

$113K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

ABOUT US:

Headquartered in the United States, TP-Link Systems Inc. is a global provider of reliable networking devices and smart home products, consistently ranked as the world's top provider of Wi-Fi devices. The company is committed to delivering innovative products that enhance people's lives through faster, more reliable connectivity. With a commitment to excellence, TP-Link serves customers in over 170 countries and continues to grow its global footprint.

We believe technology changes the world for the better! At TP-Link Systems Inc, we are committed to crafting dependable, high-performance products to connect users worldwide with the wonders of technology.

Embracing professionalism, innovation, excellence, and simplicity, we aim to assist our clients in achieving remarkable global performance and enable consumers to enjoy a seamless, effortless lifestyle.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Proactively identify and troubleshoot cloud database faults to minimize downtime and maintain optimal performance.
  • Continuously monitor and optimize cloud database performance for scalability, efficiency, and responsiveness.
  • Partner closely with business departments to understand their needs and ensure database availability aligns with business goals.
  • Collaborate on cloud database architecture enhancements to support evolving requirements.
  • Provide technical support and training to development teams, fostering a strong understanding of cloud database best practices.
  • Lead the construction and ongoing maintenance of our database platform in the cloud environment.
  • Participate in the development of database operation and maintenance products and related components.
  • Lead the construction and ongoing maintenance of our database platform.
  • Stay up to date on emerging database technologies and products to identify opportunities for improvement and support business growth.

Requirements

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical field.
  • 5 years of experience administering cloud (AWS) database systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.
  • Familiarity with NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra, DynamoDB, Redis) and practical experience with their operation is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Linux administration, including service deployment, troubleshooting, and performance tuning.
  • Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Shell, Python, Java) for scripting and automating database operations.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively under pressure.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Working knowledge of distributed system concepts like data replication and election mechanisms.
  • Experience using open-source middleware in large-scale environments.
  • Experience using or developing tools (e.g., DMS) to achieve zero downtime data migration.

Benefits

Salary range: TBD

  • Free snacks and drinks
  • Fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance (partial coverage for dependents)
  • Contributions to 401k funds
  • Bi-annual reviews, and annual pay increases
  • Health and wellness benefits, including free gym membership
  • Quarterly team-building events

At TP-Link Systems Inc., we are continually searching for ambitious individuals who are passionate about their work. We believe that diversity fuels innovation, collaboration, and drives our entrepreneurial spirit. As a global company, we highly value diverse perspectives and are committed to cultivating an environment where all voices are heard, respected, and valued. We are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, and we prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Beyond compliance, we strive to create a supportive and growth-oriented workplace for everyone. If you share our passion and connection to this mission, we welcome you to apply and join us in building a vibrant and inclusive team at TP-Link Systems Inc.

Please, no third-party agency inquiries, and we are unable to offer visa sponsorships at this time.

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