Nature of work
A database administrator uses software to store and organize data, such as financial information and customer shipping records. He/she makes sure that data are available to users and are secure from unauthorized access.The work of a DBA varies according to the nature of the employing organisation and the level of responsibility associated with the post. The work may be pure maintenance or it may also involve specialising in database development. A database administrator, often called DBA, makes sure that data analysts can easily use the database to find the information he needs and that the system performs as it should. DBA sometimes works with an organization’s management to understand the company’s data needs and to plan the goals of the database. Database administrator often plans security measures, making sure that data are secure from unauthorized access. Many databases contain personal or financial information, making security important. A database administrator is responsible for backing up systems in case of a power outage or other disaster. He also ensures the integrity of the database, guaranteeing that the data stored in it come from reliable sources. Environment of work
A candidate should know that working hours might be difficult. For example, they typically include regular unsocial hours. Above that, overnight and weekend work is often necessary as maintenance and development work needs to be undertaken during periods of low usage. A DBA is often on call if a critical problem occurs. On the other hand, this career offers many flexible circumstances. For example, the working environment might be informal, and it is possible for work to be carried out from home or from other remote locations. There is an increasing trend towards home working. Also, Self-employment or freelance work is possible. An increasing number of DBAs do contract work, but this often requires several years' experience.The work can be demanding as organisations depend on effective databases, and there can be significant pressure to ensure that they operate smoothly, particularly if accessed online. Hopefully a candidate likes traveling, for travel and absence from home at night may occasionally be required.
Professional life
A database administrator (DBA) works in a wide variety of organisations and career prospects will vary accordingly. Larger organisations may offer structured career paths to the level of lead or senior DBA, with increasing management and technical responsibility. Many DBAs move on to other areas, such as:· systems development;
· project management;
· network management;
· database architecture.
The combination of technical and management skills may open up more strategic roles.
The increase in internet traffic has resulted in information playing an even more central role in business, with many organisations now relying heavily on online databases for both commercial and administrative purposes. Any expertise gained in this area may assist in future career progression and employability. The move towards paperless offices in the public sector and the introduction of increasingly sophisticated payment and logistics systems in industry all point to increasing opportunities for DBAs. A large number of DBAs choose to work as freelance consultants or contractors, capitalising on their specialist technical knowledge. Range of typical starting salaries: 50000 SYP.
Getting the job
If a candidate thinks in applying for this job, He/she must have a bachelor’s degree in an information - or computer- related subject. Before becoming an administrator, this worker typically gets experience in a related field.Most database administrators have a bachelor’s degree in management information systems (MIS) or a computer-related field. Firms with large databases may prefer applicants who have a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in information systems. An MBA typically requires 2 years of schooling after the undergraduate level. A database administrator needs an understanding of database languages, the most common of which is SQL. Most database systems use some variation of SQL, and a DBA will need to become familiar with whichever language the firm uses. Certification is a way to demonstrate competence and may provide a jobseeker with a competitive advantage. Certification programs are generally offered by product vendors or software firms. Some companies may require their database administrators to be certified in the product they use. Most database administrators do not begin their careers in that occupation. Many first work as database developers or data analysts.
Skills
A candidate who would like to apply for this career should show evidence of some skills such as, analytical skills. A DBA must be able to monitor a database system’s performance to determine when action is needed. He/she must be able to evaluate complex information that comes from a variety of sources. Moreover, Communication skills are important for a database administrator, for he/she usually works on teams and must be able to communicate effectively with developers, managers, and other workers.Also, an employee should master detail oriented skills because working with databases requires an understanding of complex systems, in which a minor error can cause major problems. For example, mixing up customers’ credit card information can cause someone to be charged for a purchase he or she didn’t make.
Logical thinking might be another skill he/she shows. Database administrator uses software to make sense of information and to arrange and organize it into meaningful patterns. The information is then stored in the databases that these workers administer, test, and maintain. Since database administrator must be able to diagnose and correct problems arise with a database, he/she has Problem-solving skills.
Sources and references
If an employee needs any further information on what is included in this file, He/she can visit the following websites: www.oracle.com, Leading company of DBMS
The Order of syrian engineers, Damascus, Tel: 6627256
www.arab-eng.org, Arab Engineers Forum.
Summary
All in all, a database administrator (DBA) is responsible for the performance, integrity and security of a database. Additional role requirements are likely to include planning, development and troubleshooting.The database approach incorporates the following principles:
· 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