Job Profiles in Focus: The Database Administrator

Database administrators (also known as DBAs) are experienced IT professionals who use computers and specialized software to manage, organize, and secure data. They also ensure that data is easily accessible to selected users, and they take steps to protect the system from unauthorized access. Other duties of a DBA include: Ensuring data remains clearly defined and consistent, creating backups, controlling user permissions, and customizing new applications to improve efficiency.

They may work as general purpose DBAs or system DBAs responsible for technical repairs and upgrades. They may also act as application DBAs to create unique applications that work with the database. Depending on the size of the organization, database administrators may work alone or as part of a team with other IT professionals, such as data analysts, network engineers and data engineers.

While most DBAs work full-time, some companies also employ DBAs as contractors to handle specific projects. DBAs are often found in industries that rely on large databases, including online stores, insurance companies, and technology firms, among others. In addition to being proficient in SQL and other applications, most database administrators also have a degree in computer science or a related field. The demand for DBAs is steadily increasing.