Database Administrator
Job Description:Database administrators (DBAs) are responsible for data, its availability, security and accessibility.
Job Category:What you will do:
You’ll work on a variety of databases, from banks’ customer account networks to hospital patient record systems. Your tasks could vary from upgrading an existing database to creating a completely new system.
Your day-to-day responsibilities might include:
- establishing what the database is for, who’ll use it, and what other systems it will link to
- planning the structure of the database, and working out how to organise, find and display data
- building a test version and checking the results for bugs
- filling (populating) the database with new information or transfering existing data into it
- putting in security measures
- data extraction
- performing backups
- database tuning
- supervising technical support staff, training users, and producing performance
- reports for IT managers.
You might choose to specialise as a Data warehouse DBA. A data warehouse is a system used for data analysis. While a DBA will set up and run a database, a Data warehouse DBA will analyse the data provided.
Their day-to-day responsibilities might include:
- studying and tracking data patterns
- verifying the structure, accuracy, or quality of warehouse data
- performing system analysis, data analysis or programming, using a variety of computer languages and procedures
- preparing functional or technical documentation for data warehouses
- providing troubleshooting support for data warehouses
Skills:
You’ll need:
- know how to use structured query language (SQL) and database management systems (DBMS).
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
As well as:
- a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- excellent verbal communication skills
- persistence and determination (ambition/drive)
- the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
- complex problem-solving and organisation skills
- excellent communication, presentation and negotiating skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Database Administrator (DBA), specific subjects are not mandatory, but a strong educational foundation and relevant skills can be advantageous in preparing for this career. Database administration is a specialised field within the broader realm of information technology (IT). Here are some relevant subjects:
- Mathematics (Maths): Strong math skills are valuable for understanding and optimising database structures, as well as for performing calculations related to database queries and management.
- Computer Science or Information Technology (IT): courses related to computer science or IT can provide a fundamental understanding of computer systems, networks, and databases.
- English Language: Effective written and verbal communication skills are important for documenting database configurations, interacting with colleagues, and providing support.
- Science: Courses in science, particularly those involving data analysis and problem-solving, can enhance your analytical skills, which are valuable in database administration.
Post School
You could get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
University
You could study for a higher national diploma, degree or postgraduate qualification before joining a company training scheme.
Useful subjects include:
- computer science
- business information systems
- software engineering
- information technology management
- mathematics
You may have an advantage when you look for work if you do a degree that includes a work placement.
Apprenticeship
You may be able to get into this job through a digital and technology solutions professional degree apprenticeship.
If you already have a degree or relevant experience, you may be able to do a digital and technology solutions specialist masters degree apprenticeship.
Direct Application
You may be able to apply directly for a place on a graduate training scheme. You can usually apply if you have a degree in any subject.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work 37 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. You may have on-call duties to deal with technical problems outside normal office hours.
You’ll work at one site if you’re employed by a company to manage their databases. If you work for a company that builds databases for other organisations, you’ll travel to meet clients. Some contracts may involve overnight stays.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could move into IT project management or systems analysis, web development or network management.
You could also become self-employed, or move into consultancy.