Do you want to become a Database Administrator? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
Job Description - 
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Database administrators plan and maintain databases and the information in them so that users can easily access the information they need in their jobs.
In modern databases, data is organised in such a way that:
· users can only access or update information relevant to their agreed functions
· data remains consistent across the whole system.
A database administrator is responsible for a number of tasks, including:
· finding out the requirements of users and the anticipated flows of data for a new or modified database
· planning a database from rough ideas (‘conceptual' design)
· setting up and testing new systems
· maintaining the security and integrity of the information contained on the database.
Most database administrators work 37 to 40 hours a week. They may be required to be on call if breakdowns occur outside normal working hours or work extra hours to meet deadlines. The work is carried out in a modern office environment.
Salaries range from around £15,000 to £53,000 a year.
A database administrator needs:
· good IT skills, including ideally some knowledge of database systems
· a logical mind, to be able to find ways to solve problems
· excellent communication and negotiation skills
· a detailed understanding of customers' business needs.
Database administrators work for organisations with large-scale information requirements. These could include, eg schools and universities, the National Health Service, central and local government departments, financial institutions, retail businesses, manufacturing firms, and IT and computer companies offering database solutions.
A degree or HNC/HND related to IT is useful, but not essential. Other qualifications may be acceptable, such as BTEC national diplomas and NVQs/SVQs. Adult entry is possible, particularly for people with relevant business experience and a solid grounding in IT.
Much of the training is on the job, supplemented by short internal or external courses.
It is possible for database administrators to move into other areas within IT such as database design & development , project management, network management or systems analysis.
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