What Does a Database Administrator Do?

After getting your high school diploma or equivalent, think about which training path you should take. 

Many employers look for a bachelor's degree in database administration, information technology, computer science, computer engineering or a related field. However, it is also possible to earn a certificate or associate degree, become an IT support specialist, software developer or other role and learn database administration skills on the job. 

The path to the job will be influenced by the size of the company, the company’s stance on degrees and the amount of cross-training the company supports.

Database administrator training programs will include classes and hands-on training in database management, troubleshooting, database queries, data science, data privacy, cybersecurity, cloud database management systems, HTML and the database language Structured Query Language (SQL). 

Some programs may include business skills, since successful database managers may have a leadership role the company. Some programs include internships.

Most companies require database administrator certification either from a specific software vendor, such as Microsoft or IBM, or a certification provider. Certifications can cover any aspect of the system, from operating systems such as UNIX or Linux to relational database frameworks such as Oracle. 

Database manager networking groups are a smart way to make connections and keep up with technology trends.

The job outlook is stable and promising, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS predicts job growth of 9% from 2021 to 2031. That translates into about 11,500 openings each year over the decade.

Successful database administrators tend to share these traits: 

• Excellent communication skills
• Well-organized
• Excellent analytical skills
• An eye for detail
• Creative at problem-solving
• A keen understanding of business strategy