The job of a Database Management Professional?

Answer 1

Virtually every type of organization today, from schools, to hospitals, to financial services, needs a database system to support business operations. There are often vast amounts of various data that need to be tracked such as inventory, customer information, and accounting data. This data needs to be accessed by the right people and secured to protect against unintended use and unauthorized access. This data must also be backed up regularly and restored when needed. This is where a database manager comes in. A database manager is a computer professional responsible for designing, installing, maintaining and securing these complex database systems.

To enter the field, one must usually possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, or other computer related disciplines. Because of rapidly changing technology, the database manager must also continue to learn and remain highly skilled in the latest technology. The database manager should also possess skills in customer service and training. They will often need to instruct others on how to do something. Also helpful for the database manager are critical thinking skills and knowledge of business, and mathematics.

Certification in this field is voluntary, however the competitiveness of this field warrants becoming certified. These credentials will give the candidate an advantage over the competition and can demonstrate an advanced level of proficiency and expertise in the field. Both Oracle and Microsoft companies offer a certification credential on their respective database systems, Oracle database systems and Microsoft SQL server. In addition, The Data Management Association International (DAMA) offers a certification program allowing database managers to become Certified Data Management Professionals (CDMPs). To obtain CDMP certification, candidates must pass three exams. They also must have a bachelors degree along with two or more years of experience in the field. Yearly continuing education is also required to maintain the certification.

Database management is a very lucrative and in demand field. Salaries can range from $45,000 per year to more than $80,000 per year with the median being approximately $60,000 per year. Similar titles include Database Developer, Information Technology Manager, and Database Administrator.