All About Database Administrators

Database Administrator Job Description 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

• Develop data model describing data elements and how they are used, following procedures and using pen, template or computer software.
• Train users and answer questions.
• Modify existing databases and database management systems or direct programmers and analysts to make changes.
• Develop methods for integrating different products so they work properly together such as customizing commercial databases to fit specific needs.
• Plan, coordinate and implement security measures to safeguard information in computer files against accidental or unauthorized damage, modification or disclosure.
• Establish and calculate optimum values for database parameters, using manuals and calculator.

Things a Database Administrator Should Know How to Do

Database Administrators state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.

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

• Data Management Associate
• Data Storage Specialist
• Database Administration Associate
• Data Modeling Specialist
• Information Scientist

Is There Going to be Demand 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. There will be an estimated 9,300 positions for Database Administrator per year.

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.

Database Administrator Average Salary

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?

What education or degrees do I need to become a Database Administrator?

What work experience do I need to become a Database Administrator?

Database Administrators Sector

Below are examples of industries where Database Administrators work:

Related Careers

Those thinking about becoming a Database Administrator might also be interested in the following careers:

• Technical Writers

Are you already one of the many Database Administrator in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:

• Computer and Information Research Scientists

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics
• College Factual
• O*NET Online

Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain

More about our data sources and methodologies.