ST: Computer Industry Careers
Database Administration
A database administrator (DBA) directs or performs all activities related to maintaining a successful database environment. Responsibilities include designing, implementing, and maintaining the database system; establishing policies and procedures pertaining to the management, security, maintenance, and use of the database management system; and training employees in database management and use.
A database is a collection of data that is organized so that its contents can easily be accessed, managed, and updated. Databases contain aggregations of data records or files, such as sales transactions, product catalogs and inventories, and customer profiles. A DBMS (database management system), is a program that lets one or more computer users create and access data in a database.
This occupation usually requires a Bachelor's degree or an Associate degree with work experience in computer programming, relational databases, standard query language, and online analytical processing. Salaries are likely to range from $16,000 to 65,000 per year.
A DBA is expected to stay abreast of emerging technologies and new design approaches. Typically, a DBA has either a degree in Computer Science and some on-the-job training with a particular database product or more extensive experience with a range of database products. A DBA is usually expected to have experience with one or more of the major database management products, such as Structured Query Language (SQL), Systems, Applications, Products in Data Processing and Oracle-based database management software.
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