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Database Administrators

In the Database Administrators occupation, workers administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. You may also need to modify existing databases and database management systems or direct programmers and analysts to make changes. On the six-type interest model it reads CIE, meaning orderly work with data, records and clear procedures comes first, followed by research, analysis and working through hard problems. Plan on a bachelor’s degree plus a period of work experience; O*NET labels this considerable preparation. Strength in critical thinking, complex problem solving, and reading comprehension helps most here. People who want orderly work with data, records and clear procedures usually fit better here than those who need creative work with room for original expression.

What they do

Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.

Main tasks

  • Modify existing databases and database management systems or direct programmers and analysts to make changes.
  • Plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard information in computer files against accidental or unauthorized damage, modification or disclosure.
  • Plan and install upgrades of database management system software to enhance database performance.
  • Specify users and user access levels for each segment of database.
  • Test changes to database applications or systems.
  • Test programs or databases, correct errors, and make necessary modifications.

Skills

  • Critical Thinking
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Active Listening
  • Active Learning

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You like clear rules and getting the details right.
  • You enjoy working out why something happens, not just what happened.
  • You are ready to spend around four years on a degree, then build experience.
  • You are comfortable relying on critical thinking and complex problem solving.

May not suit you if

  • You get restless with routine, records and exact procedures.
  • You need creative expression to be a big part of your day. Artistic rates 1.2 out of 7 here.
  • You want to avoid a four-year degree or its equivalent.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code CIE takes the three highest, and Conventional comes first here.

Preparation

Considerable preparation. Most jobs here ask for a bachelor’s degree, and employers usually expect a few years of related experience as well.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Bachelor's Degree. This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Also called

  • Database Administration Manager
  • Database Administrator (DBA)
  • Database Analyst
  • Database Coordinator
  • Database Engineer

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.