⭐ Bright Outlook

Database Administrators

O*NET 15-1242.00 · SOC 15-1242

Projected Growth
+10%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$105k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Education Level
Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

What You'd Actually Do

  • Manage database performance and security
  • Optimize queries and indexing
  • Plan backup and recovery procedures
  • Monitor system health
  • Implement data governance policies

Education & How to Get In

🎯
Job Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Database Administrators roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Database Administrators? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.

Coursera
University-backed courses and certificates
Browse courses →
Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
Browse courses →
Skillshare
Creative and professional skill classes
Browse courses →
LinkedIn Learning
Professional development with certificates
Browse courses →

Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.

Work Environment

Primary Setting

Structured — offices, data centers, or remote

Work Style

Independent — focused deep work with periodic team check-ins

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Database Administrators involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningManage database performance and security
MiddayOptimize queries and indexing
AfternoonPlan backup and recovery procedures

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Conventional (Organizers)6.6
Investigative (Thinkers)4.8
Enterprising (Persuaders)2.9
Realistic (Doers)2.8
Social (Helpers)2.3
Artistic (Creators)1.2

Who Thrives as Database Administrator?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTJThe InspectorESTJThe ExecutiveINTJThe StrategistENTJThe Commander

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Database Administrators Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

IndeedLinkedIn JobsZipRecruiter

Similar Careers

Data Warehousing Specialists+8%Information Security Analysts+15.8%Actuaries+22%Database Architects+8%Document Management Specialists+33%Medical Records Specialists+6%Digital Forensics Analysts+33%Blockchain Engineers+33%

Explore More Careers

Best Technology Careers →Browse all careers →

Is Database Administrators right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the free quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

Take the assessment →

Free · No account required · 5 minutes