What is a Database Administrator?
Database administrators manage their company’s or organization’s database by undertaking its design and implementation. They store and organize new data as it’s accumulated, ensuring it’s accessible by employees as needed. They must have a full understanding of the system they operate, including knowledge of database design and familiarity with Structured Query Language (SQL).
During the installation of a system, database administrators set up accounts for authorized users and determine their privileges based on their work duties. As it’s phased into regular use, they troubleshoot problems that may occur and attempt to forecast other potential problems. When new software is released, they determine whether or not it should be implemented depending on its function and cost. Importantly, they monitor the security of the software as it’s put to use in order to prevent any future breaches. In the event that a major problem occurs, database administrators access backup files they maintained with updated data.
How to Become a Database Administrator
Aspiring database administrators hold bachelor’s degrees in a technology-related field such as computer science and information science. Computer science majors, for example, take useful courses such as programming principles, data structures, modern digital systems design, system programming, and software engineering. It’s important that students in the major are proficient in math, as they’ll be asked to complete courses such as calculus I and II, linear algebra and physics.
Aspiring database administrators should be able to transfer and replicate data, monitor database performance and implement database security and recovery. They should possess analytical, organization and communication skills. Furthermore, they must be able to adjust to the ever-changing technology in the field. Community colleges and technical colleges offer specialized classes that enhance the skills of individuals in the profession. Database administrators often elect to earn MBAs in order to acquire the knowledge and skills needed for management.
Database Administrator Career Outlook & Salary
Database administrators will enjoy a positive job outlook in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment growth of 20 percent is expected from 2008 to 2018, much faster than the national average for all occupations. As companies and organizations become more reliant on technology and its advancements, database administrators will be needed to oversee the proper implementation, management and security of databases. There will be a premium on specialized individuals who are adept at operating new software. In 2009, there were 108,080 database administrators, most of whom worked in computer systems design and related services.
Because of the demand for their services, database administrators earn high salaries. Their median annual income is $71,550, and the highest 10 percent earn a median annual income of $114,200. The top paying industries for database administrators include rail transportation, monetary authorities, and chemical and allied products merchant wholesalers.
