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What does a Database Administrator do?

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Talent.com talent.com
Answered March 24 2022
Career Expert at Talent.com
DBAs are responsible for ensuring that information stored in a database is secure and easily accessible to those who have access. Database users should be able to find the information they need in databases easily and expect that systems will perform as they should. 

As the person who oversees the maintenance and reliability of databases, DBAs are the go-to person when things aren't running smoothly. Their daily tasks may involve checking the status of the database, checking the remaining database capacity, and reviewing any database activity from the previous night. They are also responsible for investigating security parameters and solving any issues that may come up during the day in a timely and prompt manner. These responsibilities put them in constant communication with other IT departments, users, and superiors. 

DBAs may maintain databases for organizations in the public or private sectors, from retail companies that keep track of their buyers’ credit card and shipping information to healthcare settings where databases store patients’ medical records.

Average day of a Database Administrator
Here's a non-exhaustive list of everyday tasks Database Administrators might be expected to complete: 
  • Maintain the accessibility of the database and guarantee its safety.
  • Oversee the performance of the database to ensure that it is handling the parameters properly and providing fast responses to users.
  • Refine the logistics design to ensure that data can be converted into any specific model.
  • Ensure that data meets the storage system's requirements.
  • Install and test new database management software, updating the software regularly.
  • Grant permission and privileges to proper users.
  • Plan and maintain a backup system.
  • Create contingency plans in case of emergencies.
  • Establish data recovery protocols.
  • Plan ahead on capacity issues to ensure that storage and archiving measures run effectively.
  • Work in tandem with IT Project Managers and Database and Multimedia Programmers.
  • Supervise the work of Data Entry Clerks, ensuring that all data is sorted and stored correctly.
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