What You Need to Know About Database Administrator
Position 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.
Life As a Database Administrator
- Develop methods for integrating different products so they work properly together such as customizing commercial databases to fit specific needs.
- Develop data model describing data elements and how they are used, following procedures and using pen, template or computer software.
- Approve, schedule, plan, and supervise the installation and testing of new products and improvements to computer systems, such as the installation of new databases.
- Train users and answer questions.
- Test programs or databases, correct errors, and make necessary modifications.
- Select and enter codes to monitor database performance and to create production database.
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Database Administrator Skills
These are the skills Database Administrators say are the most useful in their careers:
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
- Database Tester
- Knowledge Architect
- Databases Software Consultant
- Data Engineer
- Oracle Database Administrator (Oracle DBA)
Database Administrator Job Outlook
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. The BLS estimates 9,300 yearly job openings in this field.

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.
Average Database Administrators Salary
The typical yearly salary for Database Administrators is somewhere 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 each U.S. state?
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 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?
Are there Database Administrators education requirements?

How many years of work experience do I need?

Who Employs Database Administrators?

Below are examples of industries where Database Administrators work:

You May Also Be Interested In…
Those thinking about becoming a Database Administrator might also be interested in the following careers:
Those who work as a Database Administrator sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:
References:
Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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