Database Administrator

Job Description Database Administrator

• Your responsibility as a database administrator (DBA) will be the performance, integrity and security of a database.
• You'll be involved in the planning and development of the database, as well as in troubleshooting any issues on behalf of the users.

You'll ensure that:

• data remains consistent across the database
• data is clearly defined
• users access data concurrently, in a form that suits their needs
• there is provision for data security and recovery control (ensuring all data is retrievable in an emergency).

Responsibilities

As a database administrator, you'll need to:

• establish the needs of users and monitor user access and security
• monitor performance and manage parameters in order to provide fast responses to front-end users
• map out the conceptual design for a planned database
• consider both back-end organization of data and front-end accessibility for end-users
• refine the logical design so that it can be translated into a specific data model
• further refining the physical design to meet system storage requirements
• install and test new versions of the database management system (DBMS)
• maintain data standards, including adherence to the Data Protection Act
• write database documentation, including data standards, procedures and definitions for the data dictionary (metadata)
• control access permissions and privileges
• develop, manage and test back-up and recovery plans
• ensure that storage and archiving procedures are functioning correctly
• carry out capacity planning
• work closely with IT project managers, database programmers and multimedia programmers
• communicate regularly with technical, applications and operational staff to ensure database integrity and security
• commission and install new applications and customize existing applications in order to make them fit for purpose
• Manage the security and disaster recovery aspects of a database.

What to expect

• The working environment is informal and it's possible for work to be carried out from home or from other remote locations.
• There's an increasing trend towards working from home.
• You'll find that the work can be demanding as organizations depend on effective databases, and there can be significant pressure to ensure that they operate smoothly, particularly if accessed online.
• Travel and absence from home overnight may occasionally be required.
• There are numerous opportunities to work abroad.
• Women are currently underrepresented in the IT profession.
• For information and jobs for women who want to work in technology take a look at Women in Technology.

Qualifications

You can enter this career with a degree in any subject but the following may be particularly useful:

• computer science
• computer software/computer systems engineering

Skills

You will need to show:

• excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• good communication, teamwork and negotiation skills
• familiarity with the main data manipulation languages and the principles of database design
• the ability to work to tight deadlines under pressure
• good organizational skills
• flexibility and adaptability
• the ability to create and maintain strong working relationships with colleagues and customers
• business awareness and understanding of business requirements of IT
• a willingness to keep up to date with developments in new technology
• a commitment to continuing professional development (CPD)
• an understanding of information legislation, such as the Data Protection Act.