The dramatic increase in the use of computers and informational technology has boosted the need for highly skilled professionals related to various dimensions of these fields. Some of the opportunities are in areas of computer research, database administration, and network systems, and data communication analysis (Computer Scientists, p. 1). Rapid developments in related technologies have further increased the scope of opportunities and job functions in these areas (Computer Scientists, p. 1). My fascination with computers and the vast information that is available on the Internet has made me incline towards knowing the manner in which the data is maintained and updated from time to time. I believe that the knowledge I have gained in this regard can be highly useful if I choose to work as a database administrator. My desire to learn more in this field will also be fulfilled by choosing this career path.
Tasks and Responsibilities of the Job
Coming to the job functions of a database administrator, they include database management with regards to data integrity, backup systems, and database security, among others (Computer Scientists). The general functions of this category are mentioned below.
- Database administrators have to deal with database management software, with strong expertise in database development, organization, and storage (Computer Scientists, p. 1; Database, p. 1).
- They have to analyze user needs, maintain existing computer databases and set up new ones accordingly (Computer Scientists, p. 1). A part of it is to integrate data from older systems into a new system as and when needed (Computer Scientists, p. 1).
- Also, they are responsible to assess and manage system modifications while troubleshooting problems (Computer Scientists 1). To be precise, they need to be good at database modeling and design (Database, p. 1).
- They may be required to use “data mapping, data mining, and data transformational analysis tools for database development, design, and maintenance” (Database, p. 1).
- They have to be good at understanding the database platforms to enable the required performance of the system while making time to time adjustments (Computer Scientists, p. 1).
- Some added responsibilities may be included with respect to user requirements, necessary specifications, design protocols, and developmental schedules (Database, p. 1).
- Most importantly, the increasing connectivity of databases with the Internet requires these administrators to coordinate with network administrators in order to maintain proper security measures for database maintenance (Computer Scientists, p. 1).
Work Environment and Job Scope
Though expanding computer networks allow database administrators to work through laptops, email, and the Internet, they generally work in offices using their computers for about 40 hours per week (Database 1). While some of these professionals work as contractors or consultants, the remaining are recruited by various employers such as governments, insurance companies, financial institutions, universities, and computer product manufacturers (Database, p. 1).
It is expected that the lack of skilled professionals to meet increasing demands in this field will provide excellent job opportunities for these professionals over the next decade (Computer Scientists, p. 1). Out of 542,000 computer specialists that were employed in May 2006, nearly 119,000 were database administrators (Computer Scientists, p. 1). The salaries for database administrators for 2007 ranged between $70,250 and $102,000 per annum with scope for further increase up to $84,750-$116000 depending on skill level and promotions (Computer Scientists, p. 1).
Required Skills and Educational Background
To get high-paying jobs, database administrators require having commendable knowledge in programs, along with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills (Database, p. 1). However, required educational qualifications may vary depending on respective positions and companies. Most of the companies require a Bachelors’s degree in Management Information systems (MIS), computer science, or information science, whereas other companies may need only a two-year relevant degree (Database, p. 1). Moreover, relevant job experience and internships are seen as advantageous (Database, p.1). However, a doctorate is required for those who want to work in research areas (Database, p. 1).
Also, an MBA with a special focus on information systems is an added qualification to get into companies that are expanding their business to the internet (Database, p. 1). Apart from this, certification as a specialist in a particular aspect of database administration is becoming a key requirement to join some companies (Database, p. 1). To be precise, the increasing complexity of the business arena is resulting in the company’s tendency to look for candidates who have expertise inside and outside the IT arena (Computer Scientists, p. 1).
My Skills and Educational Background
I believe that I have the required knowledge and skill level to start my career as a database administrator. Attending computer technology classes at the Laguardia community college, New York, helped me gain knowledge about computers, software development, and database management. Moreover, I have taken telecommunications as my major helps me learn further about computers, communications, and designing voice and data communication systems. This knowledge will also help me in further expanding my job prospects, as I can have good chances in database administration related to the telecommunications field, and vice versa.
However, with the increasing developments in technology, I need to be well acquainted with the latest advancements so as to increase my job opportunities and fulfill my desire to become excellent in the field. Also, as companies look for candidates with special certificates, I want to get a certificate course in my favorite database security from a recognized private company. Apart from this, my immediate step will be to get an internship to gain practical experience and further improve my knowledge in various aspects of database administration.
Finally, researching for this paper has helped me to concentrate in detail on database administration in view of career prospects. This will surely help me streamline my plans and efforts in order to become a highly-skilled database administrator who can meet the requirements of the industry.
Conclusion
There are increasing job opportunities for database administrators. However, potential candidates need to possess various skills along with relevant educational qualifications in order to meet companies’ requirements in the increasingly complex business arena.
Works Cited
- “Computer Scientists and Database Administrators.” Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008 Edition .U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics. 2007.
- “Database Administrator career.” DegreeDirectory.com. 2008. Web.