Upwork is seeking a Senior Database Automation Engineer to join their Data Infrastructure team within the Data Platform Services organization.
The role involves designing, operating, and automating database systems such as Postgres, MySQL, DynamoDB, and MongoDB across Upwork’s global infrastructure.
Responsibilities include orchestrating complex systems using Terraform, RDS, Presto, and Rancher to address challenges like zero-downtime migrations, end-to-end database provisioning, vulnerability management, and incident response for high-severity database alerts.
Key responsibilities include designing and implementing Python-based automation frameworks for database lifecycle management, collaborating with infrastructure teams to integrate systems via APIs, optimizing Postgres performance, and participating in APAC Time-friendly on-call shifts with weekend coverage.
Requirements:
Candidates must have deep experience in both database engineering/administration and software development, with a preference for those who have transitioned between the two fields.
A strong background in Python is required, with the ability to develop robust automation beyond basic scripting; experience with Ruby or Perl is acceptable if the candidate can quickly adapt to Python.
Candidates should have 7+ years of professional experience with relational databases, particularly Postgres, with additional experience in MySQL or Oracle valued; NoSQL experience is a plus but not required.
A solid understanding of SQL is necessary, and experience with procedural languages like PL/pgSQL or PL/SQL is beneficial but not essential.
Familiarity with cloud environments (AWS, GCP, Azure) and experience with Terraform and related infrastructure-as-code tools is helpful but not a core requirement.
Candidates should have a passion for automating repetitive tasks and improving operational efficiency, along with a proactive and resourceful approach to problem-solving.
Strong communication skills are essential for effective collaboration in a distributed, multicultural team.
The position requires participation in a 24/7 on-call schedule, including weekends, with flexibility provided to balance workload after incidents.
Benefits:
The opportunity to work on challenging, high-impact automation projects that are central to Upwork’s business.
Collaboration with experienced engineers in a supportive, global team environment.
Exposure to a wide array of technologies and complex systems orchestration.
The chance to shape and improve the core data infrastructure of the world’s leading work marketplace.
