Database Administrator Job description

  
Job description: Database Administrator

A database administrator oversees the databases within an organization. You’ll oversee the performance and security of databases, and report and fix any bugs to ensure long term optimal performance.

What you’ll be doing

Working with a variety of DBMS (Database management software), an administrator will make sure that everything is working clearly and consistently. You may well be asked to develop and regulate aspects of a database depending on the organization you work for. The database administrator accesses from both the front and back end of the DBMS, as well as creating and overseeing user privileges and access. The work is mostly 9-5, with options to work part-time or flexi hours depending on the industry of choice.

Salary

IT skills are a must, and can be obtained either through practice or formal training from any post-secondary institution. Due to the sensitive nature of the information stored on some databases (for example within a bank), you may well need to have some education regarding implementing security measures and data recovery. Starter salaries range from £22,000 and £26,000, but can jump significantly after just three years of experience.

Who is it for?

If you’re tech savvy, your skills would come in useful as a database administrator. You should feel comfortable working within a team or independently, as the role can call for both depending on the company’s specific requirements. Communicating errors is important as is troubleshooting and fixing them swiftly. As mentioned before, sensitive data can be stored on databases and you have to be willing and able to go to the right lengths to keep it secure! Something also worth mentioning is the locale. According to Total Jobs, over 65% of database administrator jobs are in the South East, so if you’re not in the area you may want to consider if you’re willing to locate. Candidates interested in becoming a database administrator should be skilled at problem-solving, scrupulous and thoroughly organized. If you’re analytical, practical and enjoy working with both people and computers, consider a role as a DBA.