Oracle Database Specialist (Linux) Short-Term / Freelance Contract

ABOUT US

At TOPPAN Security, our mission is to shape a meaningful, technology-driven future by being a global leader in mission-critical identity and payment technologies.

We serve as the international development arm of the TOPPAN Group in the security domain, founded in 1900. TOPPAN is a trusted Japanese brand renowned for its commitment to exceptional quality. Building on this legacy, we combine bold ideas, deep sector expertise, and collaborative intelligence to deliver secure, future-ready solutions.

Our culture is grounded in four core values: Agility, Ownership, Resilience, and a Sense of Fun. We move fast, lead with accountability, grow through challenges, and bring positive energy into everything we do.

About the role

We are looking for an Oracle Database Specialist with strong Linux experience who will work alongside our Technical and Development teams. Responsibilities include the installation, optimisation, maintenance, and security of the company's Oracle database environments and the Linux servers they run on.

The role collaborates with the development team and users to enhance database performance, complete development projects on time, and support teams with any database- and server-related issues.

What you will do

• Install, configure, patch, and upgrade Oracle Database environments on Linux servers.

• Administer and maintain production, test, and development Oracle databases to ensure availability, integrity, and performance.

• Monitor database performance and tune SQL, PL/SQL, memory, and storage using tools such as AWR, ADDM, and Oracle Enterprise Manager.

• Design, implement, and regularly test backup and recovery strategies using RMAN and Data Pump.

• Implement and support high availability and disaster recovery solutions, including Oracle RAC and Data Guard.

• Administer the underlying Linux servers (Oracle Linux / Red Hat Enterprise Linux), including storage, kernel parameters, users, services, and operating system patching.

• Automate routine database and server tasks using shell scripting and job scheduling.

• Manage database security, including user access, roles and privileges, auditing, encryption, and the application of Oracle security patches.

• Plan capacity and manage storage growth, including tablespaces and ASM.

• Collaborate with development teams on schema design, query optimisation, and database releases.

• Perform database migrations, refreshes, and cloning between environments.

• Diagnose and resolve database and server incidents, perform root cause analysis, and liaise with Oracle Support where required.

• Monitor day-to-day operations, report on performance, and recommend actionable improvements when necessary.

• Report to management on database health, capacity, risks, and project progress.

• Create and maintain Oracle database and Linux server documentation, policies, and procedures.

• Ensure that database-related work is delivered on time and within budget.

ABOUT YOU

You have extensive hands-on experience in Oracle database administration and Linux server administration.

You keep up with advancements in the field, promote technological innovation, and demonstrate strong problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

What we are looking for

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a similar field.

• Oracle certification (e.g., Oracle Certified Professional) is advantageous.

• At least 5 years of experience installing, administering, customising, and optimising Oracle databases in production environments.

• At least 3 years of experience installing, administering, and optimising Linux servers (Oracle Linux, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, or similar).

• Strong SQL and PL/SQL skills, including query and execution plan tuning.

• Experience with RMAN backup and recovery, and Data Pump.

• Experience with Oracle RAC, Data Guard, and ASM.

• Proficiency in Linux command-line administration and shell scripting (Bash).

• Experience with Oracle Enterprise Manager and AWR / ADDM performance diagnostics.

• Knowledge of database design, security, and management best practices.

• Full understanding of the IT Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).

• Ability to diagnose faults, incidents, and problems, and implement required changes.

What you will bring

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

• An interest in keeping up with advancements in database and server technologies.

• A proactive approach to troubleshooting and technological innovation.

• Experience with ITIL and Agile methodologies is advantageous.

• Exposure to other database platforms (SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL) is advantageous.

Work requirements

• Willingness and availability to travel to Botswana for approximately one week per month (2–3 weeks in total), depending on project requirements.

TOPPAN is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, or disability.