Database administrators are responsible creating, updating and maintaining an organization’s databases that store their company’s information. It is said that we are living in the Information Age and because of that, companies need to store and organize more information than ever before! However, it is also crucial for the information to be protected and secure so it does not fall into unwanted hands. Database Administrators are responsible for all these things and are essential to our increasingly data-driven world.
Salary:
The average Database Administrator makes between $42,930 and $118,720 annually.
Average Starting Salary:
On average, the starting salary for a Database Administrator is $47,125 annually.
Key Responsibilities:
- Create and maintain databases that meet the needs of end users.
- Optimize database performance and prevent errors from occurring
- Modify database structure and test changes
- Merge database data when necessary
- Backup data and restore from those backups when necessary
- Ensure data security
Necessary Skills:
- Analytical Skills
- Communication Skills
- Detail Oriented
- Logical Thinking
- Problem Solving
Degree and Experience Requirements:
Database Administrators typically have a Bachelors Degree in Management Information Systems, or another, related computer field. Certain organizations may prefer a candidate with a Master’s degree in Computer Science or Information Systems with a focus on database management. Certifications are available for Database Administrators for specific hardware vendors or pieces of software. Some companies may prefer a candidate who has a certification in the products that they use so they know their candidate has proven knowledge with that product.
Getting Started:
Database Administrator is not typically an entry-level role. Typically one starts as a Database Developer or a data analyst and gain experience with database programing and technologies. After mastering database skills in one of the aforementioned roles, one may be promoted to a database administrator.
Future Outlook:
The demand for Database administrators is expected to increase 15% over the next 10 years. The reason for the increase in demand is the growing need of companies to organize and maintain vast amounts of data related to their business. The Healthcare industry is one of the largest areas of growth for Database Administrator as medical records and patient files become digital and need to be stored securely to protect patient privacy. While there is expected to be a lot of growth in the field, there is also a growth of Database as a service where databases are run remotely, over the internet and reduce the need for Database Administrators working directly within an organization and instead remotely where labor is more affordable.
Companies That Employ Database Administrators:
- Computer System Design
- Financial Institutions
- Education
- Corporate/Enterprise Management
- Government
Programming Languages Used By Database Administrators:
- SQL
- MySQL
Traits of A Good Network Architect:
- Patience
- Organize
- Data-Driven
- Tech-Savvy
- Team Player
- Willing to keep up with latest trends in database technology
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics
College Board
Top Ten Reviews
About the Author
Mike Gdovin has been blogging about technology since 2006 on his blog, Gdovin.net. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Electronic Media from Kutztown University with a minor in Journalism, Public Relations and Business. In addition to blogging about technology, Mike is a video producer, technology consultant and social media expert.
