• Database Administrator Job Description

    A database administrator is a person whose job is to plan, build and maintain computer database systems. Their job involves discussing with clients to understand their database requirements, setting up databases according to the clients needs, and implementing security measures to prevent unauthorized access of the databases.

    A database administrator should be creative, analytical, determined, methodical and detail-oriented, and have the ability to relate to others and communicate ideas confidently, clearly, calmly and concisely. They should also have self-learning skills to stay up to date with developments in technology.

    Pursue a career in database administration if you are meticulous and have good understanding of computer systems.
  • What does a Database Administrator do?

    Database administrators may do some or all of the following:

    • discus with clients to understand their database requirements
    • plan the structure of database according to the client’s needs
    • write instructions to create and maintain databases
    • select and install database hardware and software systems
    • update outdated database systems
    • backup and restore databases to prevent loss of data
    • monitor and test database systems performance
    • troubleshoot hardware and software issues
    • plan security measures, monitor and ensure that data are secured from unauthorized assess
    • educate database users on secure access procedures
    • ensure that database vendor license agreements are complied with
    • monitor the growth of the database, plan its capacity and write reports
  • Where does a Database Administrator work?

    Places of work for database administrators include:

    • Internet service providers
    • Social networking companies
    • Telecommunication companies
    • Financial companies
    • Ecommerce companies
    • Healthcare data centers
    • Government establishments
    • Educational institutions
  • Working Conditions

    Database administrators usually work normal office hours, but may sometimes work evenings and weekends or be on call in case of emergencies. They work in offices and data management facilities.

  • What is Required to Become a Database Administrator ?

    To become a database administrator, you will need to know how to use structured query language (SQL) and database management systems (DBMS). A bachelor’s degree in management information systems, software engineering, computer engineering, computer science, information science or a related discipline is helpful.

    You can start preparing for a career path in this field by learning SQL programming language, which is the language of database queries.

  • Modules

    Just to give you an idea, some of the classes that you’ll be taking in college may include:

    • Operating Systems
    • SQL language
    • Systems Concepts
    • Programming
    • Web Development
    • Systems Development
    • Database Management and File Structure
    • Database Backup and Recovery
    • Database Performance and Tuning
    • Data Modeling and Design
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Database administrators need to have:

    • patience
    • creativity
    • accuracy
    • persistence
    • adaptability
    • humility and tactfulness
    • confidence and assertiveness
    • mathematical aptitude
    • good attention to detail
    • good interpersonal skills
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • time management and organizational skills
    • analytical and problem solving skills
    • technical and programming skills
    • leadership and business skills
    • self-learning skills
    • the ability to concentrate for long periods
    • the ability to work calmly under pressure
    • knowledge of computer systems, installation, repair and maintenance
    • knowledge of database theory
    • knowledge of SQL language
    • knowledge of database design and programming
    • knowledge of database storage systems and management
    • knowledge of database indexing strategies
    • knowledge of normalization
    • knowledge of backup and recovery suite such as NetBackup or NetApp SnapManager
    • knowledge of project management principles and practices

References

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