A Database Administrator helps organization to manage information by identifying the optimum way to store, organize, and present data to the user. The demand for DBA professionals indicates an upward swing as increasing number of applications and websites rely on databases. A bachelor’s degree in computer information systems (CIS) serves as an entry ticket to the world of database administration.
1. Career Overview
By 2022, the employment of database administrator will grow by 15%, as per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The figure reflects, the scope of employment is faster than the average for all occupations nationwide. Companies are turning more cautious to safeguard itself from cyber-crimes and are focusing on managing large amount of data, so the job prospect is immense.
DBA can be absorbed in the field of computer systems design and related services industry because of the rapid use of third-party database administration. Cloud-computing firm is another area to watch out for, apart from healthcare industry. Computer-related degree and relevant certification can give you a winning edge!
2. Database Administrator-Job Responsibilities
DBA are accountable for the security, integrity, and performance of a database. They ensure consistent and clearly defined data, across the database to provide a clear picture to the analysts and stakeholders. Additionally, they aid in the planning and development of the database, data security, and recovery control.
3. Know Your Earning Potential
The starting salaries for DBA in the United States range from $91,000 to $134,750 a year, as per the 2015 Salary Guide by Robert Half Technology, an IT staffing company. That means a boost of 5.7% over 2014’s starting salary range. (Please note that these figures are indicative and the salary range is influenced by other factors as well such as economic market conditions, candidates individual expertise, job history, and level of educational qualification.)
4. Are You The Right Fit?
Employers go for the candidates with knowledge of major database languages and applications, such as Microsoft SQL Server, IBM DB2 and Oracle. Having a solid background in database structure, configuration, installation, and practice gives you an edge. A certification course can do wonders to your resume.
Apart from these, if you have a combination of strong technical and communication skills, can work in team and also independently have exceptional organizing skills and multitasking skills, you sure can be a winner!