Database Manager

Organizational Context

The International Seabed Authority (ISA) in Kingston, Jamaica, is an intergovernmental organization focused on organizing and controlling activities in the seabed area, ensuring marine environment protection. The Office of Stewardship, Environment and Resources (OSER) provides scientific and technical expertise, managing data infrastructure and supporting research. The Database Manager role is within OSER, leading the design and governance of the enterprise data ecosystem to ensure secure, integrated, and accessible data for decision-making and collaboration.

Job Purpose

The Database Manager is responsible for the design, governance, administration, and enhancement of the International Seabed Authority's (ISA) enterprise data ecosystem. This role ensures that scientific, environmental, geological, and operational data are securely managed, integrated, and accessible, thereby supporting evidence-based decision-making, regulatory oversight, environmental stewardship, and international scientific collaboration. Key duties include developing and maintaining databases and data collection systems, ensuring data integrity and system performance, managing technology infrastructure, performing data lifecycle management, establishing data governance procedures, and collaborating with partners to implement data standards. The position also involves developing data visualization tools and providing technical guidance to stakeholders, all aimed at optimizing information management and accessibility within the ISA.

Responsibilities

Develop, maintain, and update databases, data collection systems, and analysis tools to enhance data efficiency and quality. Ensure the integrity, availability, security, and performance of the Authority’s databases and repositories. Manage and maintain the technology and virtual infrastructure, including servers, storage, network, and backup systems. Plan, configure, and optimize virtual machines and resources for availability and scalability. Oversee data lifecycle management, from acquisition to disposal, establishing clear procedures for data handling. Collaborate with internal and external partners to implement common data standards and ensure interoperability. Develop and enhance data visualization dashboards and reporting interfaces to support decision-making. Ensure compliance with information security policies and industry best practices. Develop and implement data governance policies, including security and access controls. Maintain comprehensive technical documentation for database architecture and systems. Provide technical guidance and training to staff and stakeholders on database systems and related technologies.

Work Experience

Requires at least 5 years of proven experience in database management, physical, virtual, and network administration. Experience with large, complex databases in shared environments is essential. Strong analytical skills for data collection, organization, analysis, and dissemination are required. Experience with oceanographic data management (environmental and geological) is necessary. Proven technical expertise in database strategy, modeling, design, and data mining is required. Experience developing dashboards, reporting tools, and business intelligence solutions is desired, as is knowledge of geographic information systems.

Skills

Database Management, Data Analysis, Data Governance, System Administration (Physical, Virtual, Network), Data Lifecycle Management, Data Visualization, Technical Documentation, Training and Support, Information Security, Data Standards Implementation, Analytical Skills, Problem-Solving, Collaboration.

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