Life As a Database Administrator
Database Administrator Definition 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.
A Day in the Life of a Database Administrator
- Plan, coordinate and implement security measures to safeguard information in computer files against accidental or unauthorized damage, modification or disclosure.
- Develop standards and guidelines to guide the use and acquisition of software and to protect vulnerable information.
- 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.
- Select and enter codes to monitor database performance and to create production database.
- Work as part of a project team to coordinate database development and determine project scope and limitations.
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Qualities of a Database Administrator
Database Administrators state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.
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.
Related Job Titles
- Picture Archiving and Communication Systems Administrator (PACS Administrator)
- Data Administrator
- Database Manager
- Database Developer
- Database Software Technician
Job Outlook for Database Administrators
There were about 119,500 jobs for Database Administrator in 2016 (in the United States). 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. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 9,300 job openings in this field each year.

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.
How Much Does a Database Administrator Make?
The salary for Database Administrators ranges between about $50,340 and $138,320 a year.

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 & Technology 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 to Become a Database Administrator
Education needed to be a Database Administrator:

How Long Does it Take to Become a Database Administrator?

Database Administrators Sector

Below are examples of industries where Database Administrators work:

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References:
Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain
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