What Do Database Administrator Do?
Job Description & Duties Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.
List of Database Administrator Job Duties
- Review workflow charts developed by programmer analyst to understand tasks computer will perform, such as updating records.
- Plan, coordinate and implement security measures to safeguard information in computer files against accidental or unauthorized damage, modification or disclosure.
- Revise company definition of data as defined in data dictionary.
- Establish and calculate optimum values for database parameters, using manuals and calculator.
- Review project requests describing database user needs to estimate time and cost required to accomplish project.
- Modify existing databases and database management systems or direct programmers and analysts to make changes.
Qualities of a Database Administrator
These are the skills Database Administrators say are the most useful in their careers:
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Types of Database Administrator Jobs
- Database Coordinator
- Database Administration Associate
- Data Storage Specialist
- Database Modeler
- Database Administrator (DBA)
Job Opportunities for Database Administrators
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 119,500 jobs in the United States for Database Administrator. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 11.5% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 13,700 new jobs for Database Administrator by 2026. The BLS estimates 9,300 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Database Administrator are Utah, Washington, and Colorado. Watch out if you plan on working in Alaska, Vermont, or Wyoming. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
How Much Does a Database Administrator Make?
The average yearly salary of a Database Administrator ranges between $50,340 and $138,320.
Database Administrators who work in New Jersey, Washington, or California, make the highest salaries.
How much do Database Administrators make in different U.S. states?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $83,580 |
Alaska | $79,600 |
Arizona | $88,670 |
Arkansas | $73,600 |
California | $100,890 |
Colorado | $91,410 |
Connecticut | $100,570 |
Delaware | $92,460 |
District of Columbia | $95,710 |
Florida | $86,870 |
Georgia | $92,090 |
Hawaii | $90,380 |
Idaho | $69,280 |
Illinois | $96,230 |
Indiana | $74,340 |
Iowa | $90,540 |
Kansas | $82,430 |
Kentucky | $78,310 |
Louisiana | $90,420 |
Maine | $76,540 |
Maryland | $85,240 |
Massachusetts | $98,620 |
Michigan | $83,900 |
Minnesota | $91,110 |
Mississippi | $75,020 |
Missouri | $86,660 |
Montana | $69,270 |
Nebraska | $82,550 |
Nevada | $89,320 |
New Hampshire | $95,880 |
New Jersey | $110,160 |
New Mexico | $80,270 |
New York | $99,000 |
North Carolina | $92,140 |
North Dakota | $71,290 |
Ohio | $89,330 |
Oklahoma | $74,110 |
Oregon | $92,150 |
Pennsylvania | $84,510 |
Rhode Island | $92,410 |
South Carolina | $82,500 |
South Dakota | $76,770 |
Tennessee | $78,650 |
Texas | $95,470 |
Utah | $94,230 |
Vermont | $78,150 |
Virginia | $98,090 |
Washington | $104,700 |
West Virginia | $68,940 |
Wisconsin | $84,990 |
Wyoming | $59,780 |
What Tools & Technology do Database Administrators Use?
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Database Administrators may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Hypertext markup language HTML
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Git
- Microsoft Outlook
- Python
- jQuery
- Microsoft Access
- Node.js
- MySQL
- Data entry software
- MongoDB
- SAP
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Visio
How do I Become a Database Administrator?
Are there Database Administrators education requirements?
What work experience do I need to become a Database Administrator?
Where Database Administrators Work
Database Administrators work in the following industries:
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References:
Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.