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Senior Database Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Database Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท 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 ...

Apply Early

Senior Database Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Sr. Database Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท 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 ...

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

San Jose, CA

$124K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Database Engineer at BetterHelp, you'll join a diverse team of licensed clinicians, engineers, product pros, creatives, marketers, and business leaders who share a passion for expanding ...

Senior Database Engineer

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$124K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Database Engineer at BetterHelp, you'll join a diverse team of licensed clinicians, engineers, product pros, creatives, marketers, and business leaders who share a passion for expanding ...

Senior Database Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$124K - $169K/yr

As a Database Engineer for the Data Engineering team, you will be responsible for maintaining and enhancing the reliability of our data infrastructure. Your work will directly impact the availability ...

Senior Database Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$124K - $169K/yr

As a Database Engineer for the Data Engineering team, you will be responsible for maintaining and enhancing the reliability of our data infrastructure. Your work will directly impact the availability ...

Senior Database Engineer (DBRE)

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$124K - $169K/yr

Your Impact As a Senior Database Reliability Engineer, you will help make Meraki's database and data systems reliable, scalable, secure, and operable. You will combine database engineering ...

Senior Database Engineer (DBRE)

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$124K - $169K/yr

Your Impact As a Senior Database Reliability Engineer, you will help make Meraki's database and data systems reliable, scalable, secure, and operable. You will combine database engineering ...

Senior Database Developer

Westlake Village, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

A Typical Day The Senior Database Developer will be responsible for design, development, testing, and implementation of a set enterprise level data warehouse systems and solutions. As the Database ...

Sr. Database Architect

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$71.50 - $95.50/hr

Sr. Database Architect T3W Business Solutions, Inc. is a Woman-Owned Small Business with ... Collaborate with developers, analysts, and network teams to enhance performance. Requirements

Sr. Database Reliability Engineer

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$155K - $205K/yr

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SR. DATABASE RELIABILITY ENGINEER SpaceX is looking for an ...

Sr. Database Reliability Engineer

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$155K - $205K/yr

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SR. DATABASE RELIABILITY ENGINEER SpaceX is looking for an ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Database Engineer information

See California salary details

$79.9K

$124.7K

$172.7K

How much do senior database engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior database engineer in California is $124,674.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,600.00 and $142,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 200k as a Data Engineer?

Senior Database Engineers and experienced Data Engineers with specialized skills in cloud platforms, big data tools, and database architecture can potentially earn salaries of $200,000 or more, especially in high-cost living areas or with advanced certifications. Salary levels depend on factors such as experience, location, industry, and company size.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Database Engineers, especially those with advanced skills in cloud platforms, data architecture, and certifications like AWS or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect, can earn $200,000 or more annually. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and company size, with many earning high salaries in tech hubs or large organizations.

What are some common challenges Senior Database Engineers face when managing large-scale databases, and how are they typically addressed?

Senior Database Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring database performance under heavy loads, maintaining data integrity during migrations, and optimizing queries for efficiency. Addressing these issues usually involves proactive monitoring, implementing indexing strategies, and collaborating closely with development teams to design scalable database schemas. Regularly updating skills to keep up with new database technologies and security best practices is also essential for tackling these challenges effectively.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior Database Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in database architecture, and certifications such as Oracle or Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise, often including bonuses and stock options.

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

AspectSenior Database EngineerDatabase Administrator
Primary FocusDesigning, developing, and optimizing database systemsMaintaining, backing up, and securing databases
Skills & CertificationsSQL, database architecture, performance tuning, certifications like Oracle or Microsoft SQL ServerDatabase management, backup/recovery, security, certifications like Oracle DBA or Microsoft Certified Database Administrator
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, data engineering projects, system designOperational teams, system maintenance, troubleshooting
Industry UsageUsed across tech, finance, healthcare for database developmentCommon in enterprise IT, government, and large organizations for database upkeep

While both roles work closely with databases, a Senior Database Engineer primarily focuses on designing and optimizing database systems, whereas a Database Administrator handles daily maintenance, security, and backups. The roles complement each other but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What does a senior database engineer do?

A senior database engineer designs, develops, and maintains complex database systems to ensure data integrity, security, and performance. They optimize queries, implement backups, and may work with tools like SQL, NoSQL, and cloud platforms, often mentoring junior staff and ensuring systems meet organizational needs.

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

A Senior Database Engineer needs advanced knowledge of database architecture, SQL, performance tuning, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Expertise in tools like Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, database clustering, and relevant certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate are typical requirements. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help them excel in managing complex data environments and collaborating with development teams. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring robust, scalable, and secure data solutions that meet organizational needs.

What is a Senior Database Engineer?

A Senior Database Engineer is an experienced IT professional responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing database systems within an organization. They ensure databases are secure, reliable, and perform efficiently to meet business needs. Senior Database Engineers often lead projects, mentor junior staff, and collaborate with developers and system administrators to support data-driven applications. Their expertise is crucial for data integrity, scalability, and disaster recovery planning.
What are the most commonly searched types of Database Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Database Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Database Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Database Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Database Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Database Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Database Engineer jobs in CA? For Senior Database Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Senior Database Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,674 per year, or $59.9 per hour.
Senior Database Engineer

Senior Database Engineer

Kros-Wise

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$140K - $190K/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

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 Navy contract. The ideal candidate will ensure data integrity, performance, security, and availability of mission-critical systems.

Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, and implement database systems based on user requirements and system needs
  • Administer, monitor, and maintain databases to ensure optimal performance and availability
  • Conduct performance tuning, troubleshooting, and upgrades of existing database systems
  • Implement and maintain data standards, procedures, and security policies
  • Collaborate with developers, network engineers, and cybersecurity teams to support system integration
  • Provide technical support and guidance to end-users and junior staff
  • Prepare documentation, including database design, operational procedures, and user manuals
  • Ensure compliance with DoD and Department of the Navy data management policies

Education & Experience/Skill Knowledge:

  • Active DoD security clearance
  • Masters degree in any discipline or Bachelors with 4 years experience
  • Overall 10 years of professional experience in database development, administration, or analysis
  • Proficient in SQL and database performance tuning
  • Hands-on experience with database platforms such as Oracle, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL
  • Experience with data modeling, indexing, and stored procedures
  • Knowledge of DoD/Navy security standards and compliance (e.g., RMF, STIGs)
  • Ability to support database migration, backup, and disaster recovery strategies
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate
  • CompTIA Security+