Sr. Database Reliability Engineer

As a Sr. Database Reliability Engineer at SpaceX, you will own the health and performance of Oracle and PostgreSQL databases, develop automation for routine tasks with scripting languages, and collaborate with internal teams to address challenges and anticipate future needs. Your role will also encompass database monitoring, backup and disaster recovery solutions, and optimizing queries for system efficiency.

To qualify for the Sr. Database Reliability Engineer position at SpaceX, candidates are generally expected to have a Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, with at least 8 years of relevant experience in IT or database reliability. Alternatively, 10+ years of professional experience in a similar role may suffice in lieu of a degree, particularly with strong expertise in SQL query optimization and database monitoring tools.

Yes, SpaceX values expertise in multiple database technologies, including but not limited to Oracle and PostgreSQL. A strong background in at least two database systems along with proficiency in optimizing SQL queries and data replication will aid candidates in excelling in the Sr. Database Reliability Engineer role.

The working environment for a Sr. Database Reliability Engineer at SpaceX is fast-paced and innovative. You'll be working alongside a dedicated team of engineers and database administrators who thrive on challenges and strive for excellence in technology, making it an exciting place to grow professionally.

Absolutely! SpaceX encourages the professional growth of all its staff, including Sr. Database Reliability Engineers. You will have opportunities for cross-training, coaching, and sharing responsibilities with your peers, allowing you to enhance your skills and knowledge in a collaborative environment.

Highlight specific projects where you’ve used these databases, detailing your role in optimizing performance, designing schemas, or implementing backup solutions. Discuss challenges you faced and how you addressed them, showcasing your depth of knowledge.

Talk about your familiarity with scripting languages like Python or Bash, and give examples of the types of tasks you’ve automated such as backups, monitoring, or analysis. Stress the importance of reducing manual work and ensuring consistency.

Explain the methodologies and tools you've implemented for disaster recovery, such as regular backups, redundancy, and testing recovery scenarios, focusing on how these practices protect data integrity and availability.

Share specific techniques you've employed for SQL optimization, including indexing, query structure modifications, and monitoring execution plans. Discuss the outcomes of your changes and how they improved system performance.

Discuss your experience working side-by-side with developers to troubleshoot issues. Highlight a particular instance where your support led to improved application functionality or efficiency.

Emphasize your commitment to thorough documentation, explaining how it aids in knowledge transfer, troubleshooting, and maintaining operational continuity. Share examples of runbooks or guides you've created.

Explain your proactive approach to continuous learning, such as attending workshops, pursuing certifications, or reading industry-related publications. Highlight how this knowledge benefits your role.

Detail the tools you use for monitoring and the metrics you track to ensure database health. Discuss how you analyze performance data to detect anomalies and optimize performance.

Describe your approach to being on-call, including your communication strategies and monitoring setups. Convey your ability to remain calm under pressure and effectively resolve database-related issues.

Share established principles of effective database design, such as normalization, appropriate indexing, and scalability considerations. Emphasize how good design impacts overall system performance.