Database Administrator Responsibilities

It is very essential for companies to maintain and keep a track record of their databases in order to provide essential data when needed. For this purpose, they avail the services which are provided by Information Technology (IT) professionals known as Database Administrators (DBAs). These database experts have complete knowledge and a wide expertise in how databases work, and how they can be administered and maintained for efficient functioning.

Responsibilities

Fundamentally, the primary responsibility of a database administrator is superintending the installation and efficient operation of software and databases that are intended for use by many PC users. There are various particular obligations that a typical database administrator will carry out in just about in any business environment. Data storage, data security, data management, and backup are some of the main responsibilities that are needed to be performed.

General obligations of a database professional include participating in the installation of new databases. As a part of the database installation procedure, he sets up login credentials to authorized personnel, defines the privileges related with every authorized user, and makes sure that each workstation connected to the network is set up to gain access to the new database. This procedure normally comprises a troubleshooting period wherein the database administrator diagnoses and resolves any issues that users come across with the new database.

These professionals are also responsible for carrying out the management of the procedure which relates to creating backup records of data which is present in databases of the system. This process comprises more than just making provisions for an automatic backup and assuming that the backup is being executed according to the plan. A database administrator examines the backup files to ensure that the data is complete, integrity of data is secure, and saved files can effortlessly be accessed and loaded in a situation where something goes wrong with the main database.

While dealing with databases and software, database administrators also ensure that provisions are made for new releases and upgrades periodically. They make sure that new versions or upgrades are made available, which would meliorate the efficiency of the present editions of databases. Usually, they are authorized to upload advanced versions and install them at a required time period. When an upgrade is available, they coordinate work with other IT professionals in the company to decide if the expense of replacing the present database software is worth the investment.

Recently, the obligations have been elaborated in some software development companies. These database experts may be required to take a rough design and customize features and functionalities to more efficaciously serve the anticipations of the company. Since these kinds of assignments are more ordinarily concerned with a database analyst or designer, it is not uncommon for a database administrator in a small firm to take on these obligations.

Educational Requirements

A bachelor's degree in computer science or MIS is recommended before entering the field of database administration. The degree will add weight to your resume and increase your chances of advancement in salary. You most significantly need to be aware of the latest trends in the IT sector regarding new emerging technologies in the market. You should also be willing to adapt to the variations in the ever-changing technologies. Generally, this post requires a college degree, one to three years of hands-on technical experience, and few months of formal training. Candidates should be well versed in technologies such as Windows, Oracle databases, TMS, PL/SQL, Unix, Informix, DB2, and so on. A complete understanding of such technologies is essential for carrying out the duties.

Salary

The pay package predominately depends on the level of expertise he has in the same field, his hands-on work experience, educational qualifications, certifications, and related corporate training. An entry-level database administrator receives a salary of approximately $50,000 per annum. As his knowledge expands with work experience, he may receive a salary of around $75,000 per annum. Those who have a work experience of over 10-15 years may get an annual pay of about $90,000.

To fulfill the ever changing database administrator duties, it is recommended to obtain necessary certifications and trainings in design, programming and data warehousing. Job prospects are on an increase, due to a rise in the level of hacking of confidential data stored in company databases.