Hot Jobs: Database Design and Administration
Database designers and administrators manage the design and development of IS databases and related master files. Designers must develop database solutions that satisfy client need for high-speed access, multiple views of the same information, accuracy and security, and the sharing of information between systems. Administrators identify user requirements, set up computer databases, and test and coordinate modifications to the computer database systems. An organization’s database administrator ensures the performance of the system, understands the platform on which the database runs, and adds new users to the system.
Employment
Database administrators held about 104,000 jobs in 2004. Although they are increasingly employed in every sector of the economy, the greatest concentration of these workers is in the computer systems design and related services industry. Others work for government, manufacturers of computer and electronic products, insurance companies, financial institutions, and universities.
Job Outlook According to the BLS
With the Internet and electronic business generating large volumes of data, there is a growing need to be able to store, manage, and extract data effectively. Job increases will be driven by very rapid growth in computer systems design and related services, which is projected to be one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. economy. In addition to growth, many job openings will arise annually from the need to replace workers who move into managerial positions or other occupations or who leave the labor force.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Computer Scientists and Database Administrators, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos042.htm (visited April 13, 2006).
