Database Systems Engineer

Description

We’re hiring a skilled and detail-oriented Database Systems Engineer to join our Information Technology (IT) team. In this role, you’ll support and optimize Alturas Analytics’ laboratory and business systems by managing database infrastructure, developing custom applications and queries, and ensuring data performance, security, and reliability. You’ll play an important role in maintaining efficient, high-performing systems that enable our team to focus on delivering high-quality scientific work.

Starting salary: $95,000+, DOE

This position is on-site only in Moscow, Idaho.

Why Join Alturas Analytics?

Alturas Analytics, Inc. is a privately owned contract research organization specializing in bioanalytical services for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies worldwide. Our work supports scientific research that advances the treatment and cure of disease. At Alturas, you'll join a collaborative, supportive team that values quality, encourages professional growth, and takes pride in making a meaningful impact. We're committed to creating an environment where employees feel valued, continue to learn, and have opportunities to grow their careers.

Benefits

• We pay 100% of your premiums for health, dental, and vision insurance and a portion of the premium for dependent coverage
• PTO, paid sick time and paid holidays
• Bonus program based on company-wide goals
• Safe Harbor 401k with an automatic 3% employer contribution with additional 1% match option
• Health Savings Account (HSA) (with company match) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options - including Dependent Care
• Life insurance and short- and long-term disability at no cost to you
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) focused on mental health
• Voluntary Life, AD&D, Critical Illness and Accident insurance

Perks

• Work-life balance
• Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development and promotion; tuition reimbursement
• Relaxed yet professional environment
• Wellness program including bike/walk to work incentive
• Charitable donation matching and paid time off for volunteering
• Monthly catered lunches, holiday celebrations, unlimited (good) coffee, beverages, snacks and more!

A Day in the Life

You’ll manage and optimize the database systems that support Alturas Analytics’ laboratory and business operations, overseeing database configuration, upgrades, migrations, performance tuning, backups, and security. You’ll also design and develop database applications, write custom queries, and collaborate with internal teams to meet business needs and resolve technical challenges. Additionally, you’ll help ensure system reliability, data integrity, and regulatory compliance while providing technical guidance and support to team members as needed.

Essential Duties and Tasks:

• Plans and maintains database server infrastructure, including hardware, operating systems and database software.
• Installs, configures and upgrades databases systems including but not limited to Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle Database.
• Performs data migrations and ensures compatibility with existing systems and applications.
• Performs database performance monitoring and tuning to optimize application performance.
• Patches database backend periodically.
• Creates, tests and implements database backup, restoration, and disaster recovery plans.
• Works with internal end users to understand user requirements and to develop custom applications, reports and queries for data export/import.
• Designs, tests and deploys databases to ensure database normalization, performance optimization and regulatory compliance.
• Codes and tests the application and custom queries with excellent understanding of good programming practices.
• Releases applications and queries for production per Alturas software lifecycle management processes.
• Maintains database security, access controls, and data integrity.
• Provides technical leadership and may supervise, train and mentor database or IT staff as assigned.

Additional Duties and Tasks:

• Collaborates with validation personnel for application testing and validation activities.
• Works with application, database and software vendors to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
• Performs other duties as needed or assigned.

Requirements

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Computer Science, Management Information System, Software Engineering or related fields.
• Experience supporting enterprise relational database systems such as Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle Database is preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of work experience in database administration, database development or related role.
• Equivalent combination of education, training and relevant experience may be considered.

Skills and Abilities Requirements:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to analyze and translate end user requirements into database designs and technical solutions.
• Advanced knowledge in relational database architecture and database design principles.
• Experience with database backup, disaster recovery strategies including transaction logs and point-in-time recovery.
• Proficient in Microsoft SQL Server T-SQL and Oracle SQL and PL/SQL.
• Proficient in Microsoft Access Jet SQL and VBA/VB.
• Experience with database administration tools such as Toad, SSMS, SSIS or similar platforms.
• Advanced knowledge with database connectivity technologies including ODBC, OLEDB and related platforms.
• Understanding of regulated data environments and FDA regulatory requirements such as 21 CFR Part 11, GLP, and GCP is preferred (training may be provided).
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Physical Requirements:

• Position requires sitting over 2/3 of the time
• Position requires working in front of a computer monitor over 2/3 of the time
• Position requires walking less than 1/3 of the time between departments/offices
• Position requires standing less than 1/3 of the time
• Position requires use of hands and manual dexterity up to 2/3 of the time
• Position requires talking or hearing less than 1/3 of the time
• Position requires lifting up to 50 lbs. less than 1/3 of the time

Life in the Palouse

Moscow, Idaho, offers a welcoming college-town atmosphere surrounded by the natural beauty of the Palouse. With walkable streets, local restaurants, live music, and abundant outdoor recreation, the area offers a great balance of community, culture, and outdoor adventure. Nearby Pullman, Washington, provides even more dining and entertainment options.

Community Involvement

At Alturas, we believe in building a company that supports both professional growth and community well-being. We are proud to support educational programs that inspire the next generation of scientists through activities such as science fairs, classroom outreach, and university-level engagement. We encourage our employees to make a positive impact both in the workplace and in the communities where they live.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.