With the continuing advancement of computer systems and the ever changing way how information is shared and stored, the need for computer professionals will continue to increase. Included in this professional field are the database administrator, system administrator, network and the computer system administrator.
What to Expect
Database administrators have a variety of roles and positions to fill in accordance to the needs of the business and company. The primary responsibility of this professional is to determine the best methods in which to store, analyze, organize, and use many forms of data. A database administrator must be well versed in many forms of computer systems since they will often be asked to integrate the data they work with from older systems to newer more sophisticated systems. They will also need to test and troubleshoot systems as well provide modifications to these systems as needed. The database administrator will even be called upon to perform security measure since the databases and systems he maintains are connected to the internet.
Along with database administrators the network architect is responsible for computer systems utilized by businesses, schools, and other organizations. Network architects’ duties include the design and implementation of the computer networks used by these entities.
Network architects must also:
- Analyze networks and systems.
- Perform diagnostic tests on these systems.
- Install hardware as needed.
- Install the network and internet systems.
The system administrator oversees the entire network system. They must monitor the network and computer systems making improvements as needed or as required. They must also run tests to ensure that the network is functioning properly. The system administrator will also upgrade the network and computer systems as needed or as requested by the company or organization.
Overseeing the company’s security for their online and database systems is the computer security specialist. These professionals are extremely important to the company or organization as they are tasked with protecting the data of users and valuable company information. The telecommunications specialist develops methods of linking computer technology with the communication capabilities of businesses and organizations. They develop video and data communication systems that help to provide upkeep and maintenance services.
Along with the database administrator, system administrator and specialists webmasters work to maintaining web sites. They make sure that the site is functioning properly and is accessible to users and other administrators.
Webmasters are also responsible for:
- Monitoring data traffic
- Analyze data
- Collect data
- Monitor data on traffic and patterns for the site.
- Approving site content
Education, Training, and Certification
To become a database administrator those interested in the field will require a bachelor’s degree. While it may be possible to enter the work force without the degree with sufficient knowledge and skills in computer technology the competition will be stiff.
For those entering the field you will first start as a support specialist before becoming a database administrator. A senior position can be attained after years of experience and proven proficiency in the field. Some companies will require a master’s degree in business administration before hiring a database administrator.
Network and computer systems administrators should hold a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree or professional certification along with work experience may be enough to seek employment with some companies. Positions often begin as computer support specialist before advancing to a network or computer systems administration position.
Network architects are often required to hold a bachelor’s degree in a field that is related to computers. Many employers request that applicants for network architect positions have a master’s degree in business administrations. The MBA will require 2 additional years of study. In conjunction with the proper education employers prefer applications for network architect positions to have work place experience in the field.
Webmasters will need an associate degree or proper certification.
Telecommunication specialist need to hold an associate degree in a related field. There may be situations where real world work experience will be worth more than a degree.
Web developers and security specialist require a computer related bachelor’s degree to demonstrate their knowledge in their respected fields. Some employers may only require certification coupled with adequate experience but the majority will ask for a degree.
Employment Options
Many companies and businesses have great need for database administrators. They can find work in several industries and fields in the public and private sector. Database administrators are needed in:
- Financial institutions
- Government agencies
- Schools
- Retail businesses with an online presence
- Insurance agencies
Any company or business that depends on a network of computer or who has a significant online presence will require a database administrator.
These companies will also need other computer trained individuals.
Computer systems administrators as well as network administrators will be needed more than ever. These professions can see an increase as high as 23 percent in the next decade.
Computer security specialist will continue to grow in demand as cyber attacks are increasing. Companies will want to better protect their data from attack and will need trained professionals to protect that data.
Network architects and web administrators will see growth as much as 53%. Companies and organizations are beginning to understand just how important an online presence is for the consumer and will be seeking professional to make and maintain attractive and useful sites.
The growing reliance on mobile technologies means that telecommunication specialist will be called upon to integrate communication capabilities of companies. Webmasters will be needed to monitor and maintain the new technologies and systems.
Employment Outlook
From 2008-2018, the overall employment of computer network, systems, and database administrators is projected to increase by 30 percent. This is at a much faster rate than the average for all occupations.
The editors of McGraw-Hill and the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Big Book of Jobs, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2012-2013 ©2009 by the McGraw-Hill Companies, Material "Adapted"