The best developers are imaginative and can break down the process between a starting point and an end goal into discrete steps that can be implemented by code. Developers that work directly with end-users must be able to translate what users ask for into what they want. When users (or managers) request for the impossible, good developers should be able to explain why it is not feasible and be able to suggest alternatives. Production DBAs take over after applications have been created, keeping the server running smoothly, backing it up, and planning for future capacity needs. Network administrators that want to become DBAs get their start by becoming the de facto DBA for backups, restores, and managing the server as an appliance.

Every day, we create an estimated 2.5 quintillion (that’s a 1 with 18 zeros, just FYI) bytes of data, and this amount is accelerating at an exponential rate. More data has been collected in the past two years than in the entire human history. Without the database and ability to query the database, it would be nearly impossible to analyze any of that data in a meaningful way. It’s a truly exciting time in the data world with new approaches to data collection, manipulation and types of databases.

Gain Experience

Software developers create computer software and applications and earn a lot of money because traditional companies need them, and the demand for technology has increased exponentially. This allows them to make more of a business impact in many cases, which can turn into higher profits. According to Betterteam, database developers help employers build computer-based storage options sql dba developer designed to store large amounts of data. Their responsibilities include gathering all the pertinent information, creating and configuring data solution frameworks and formulating data dictionaries. They also provide technical documents and may teach clients how to use the database. Other work may include fixing bugs and coding, additional training, updates and servicing.

• At the start of my sophomore year of college at the American University, I was selected for a paid internship as a computer programmer at the U.S.
• Still, most positions require an IT- or CS-related bachelor’s degree, as well.
• This specialized DBA focuses on a specific administrative task and is uncommon outside of large IT shops.
• Sql developers make a very good living in the health care industry with an average annual salary of $93,938.

A good DBA knows database theory, but that’s not always the first thing a good DBA learns while going down the career path. Can programmers become production DBAs, and can network admins become development DBAs? Programmers don’t usually know the finer points between raid 5 and raid 10, so they have some hurdles before they can design a database server that can scale effectively at the right price point. AIS’s career services include an academic careers job board, an information systems and technology job board, networking services, and career development information.

What Education Do I Need to Be a Database Administrator?

The main task of database administrators is to keep the stability of the database. In general, if the database is doing the same thing on Friday that it was on Monday, the administrator has done his job. Much of what administrators do is a cyclical routine of ensuring that everything is going as decided. They need to check the alert log for errors, verify that scheduled backups and exports were successful, assure that no tablespaces are running low on space, and so forth. The question I have never seen asked but which is much more critical for someone planning to start focusing their career path is whether they have the mindset to be a good DBA or a good developer.

• Justin is a technical professional with a passion for learning and 18+ years of experience leading teams to build enterprise-grade distributed applications that solve real-world problems.
• Once they’ve received a degree in Computer Science, college graduates often need assistance in choosing a career path.
• As the central point of contact for information about the company’s database management systems, DBAs must keep up to date on the latest versions and capabilities of each DBMS.
• Tools such as Enterprise Manager have automated much of the collection of information required by database administrators.
• Entry-level professionals who earn database administration-related certifications or degrees often move up the salary scale more quickly.