Database Administrator
Database administrators and architects use software to store and organize data, ensuring its availability, integrity, and security. They plan, maintain, and troubleshoot database systems, optimize performance, and implement backup and recovery procedures. The BLS reports a median salary of $101,510 with 8% projected growth. A bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology is typically required, along with expertise in SQL and database management systems like Oracle, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL.
A Day in the Life
A typical day starts with checking database health dashboards and reviewing overnight backup logs. Mid-morning involves optimizing a slow query that's affecting application performance. After lunch, the DBA meets with developers to design the schema for a new feature and reviews access permissions. Late afternoon includes applying a security patch to a production database, testing the recovery process for a disaster recovery drill, and documenting the new backup retention policy.
Key Stats
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $60,000
Median: $101,510
Senior: $145,000
Job Growth