Database Administrator

What You Do

As a databas e administrator, you will b uild, test, install and modify computer databases. You are the person responsible for making sure that an organization’s database is up and available. Your job could involve:

• assisting with design issues,
• laying out the structure of the database,
• identifying and resolving users’ problems,
• developing and implementing maintenance procedures.

You are also required to ensure the security of the data by conducting and devising regular backup and recovery processes. As upgrades of software become available you will also be required to tune the database and ensure it is running at optimum speed.

Unless it is a small organization, you are usually a member of a team. Depending on your level of responsibility, you will have varying levels of contact with people.

Who You Do It For

Databases have become increasingly important in t he information age and database administrator jobs cut across a lot of industries. Likely employers include any organization that uses databases as part of its operations such as:

• retail stores,
• catalogue companies,
• insurance companies,
• communications companies (telephone, broadcasting),
• financial institutions,
• hospitals,
• utilities,
• government agencies,
• schools, universities,
• computer companies, and
• businesses in the service industries.

How You Do It

As a database administrator, you will be expected to have a very good unde rstanding of computers, computer systems, computer principles and protocols.

In addition, you will have to keep up to date with new information technology methods and have an understanding of how these will effect your clients.

Working Conditions

As the job requires exclusive, undisturbed access to databases, you may be required to work irregular hours. If the computer systems serve other locations, you may also be required to travel to meet with users. The working environment is informal, and can be very stressful.

Like other workers who spend their time in front of a computer terminal, database administrators are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort and hand and wrist problems. What The Future Holds

Information stored in databases has become extremely important, since many organizations rely on data to give them the competitive advantage in the global marketplace. Experienced database administrators are highly sought after, even though increasing numbers of organizations are trying to automate and streamline operations.