Database administrators – DBAs, for short – set up databases according to a company’s needs and make sure they operate efficiently. They will also fine-tune, upgrade and test modifications to the databases as needed.

With information so readily available in this era of apps, tablets and social media, data has become the new treasure organizations must protect and cherish. More than anyone else, database administrators are relied on as the guardians of this treasure, implementing security measures to ensure sensitive data doesn’t fall into the hands of unruly pirates while also managing the databases that help store and organize it.

The job involves resolving complex issues, so attention to detail is an essential trait in this profession, as is a passion for problem-solving. Communication skills are also important since DBAs often work as part of a team with computer programmers and managers. Ongoing maintenance of a database requires being on call. These professionals are employed in a wide range of settings in the public and private sectors, and some DBAs work as consultants to organizations.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7.0% employment growth for database administrators between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 6,000 jobs should open up.

Employers generally require a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, such as computer science or management information systems, although some favor applicants with a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in data or database management. Database administrators can earn certifications for specific database platforms and must be familiar with the programming language their employer uses.