Career Track: SQL Server Database Administrator

SQL Server Database Administrator Roles and Responsibilities :

While Oracle DBA's seem to be the hot property these days, SQL Server Database Administrators are moving into the spotlight as well. As a matter of fact, industry experts suggest that the changes made by Microsoft to its SQL server version 7 seriously impact the responsibilities of a database administrator. While many suggest that there are actually two types of SQL DBA's (development and production) the responsiblities do not differ much from a regular DBA.

On the development side, a DBA is responsible for designing and implementing databases and applications often including front-end development or GUI. (This denotes a requirement for Visual Basic and/or C++.) As an SQL development DBA, however, candidates will also manage security, indexing and stored procedure design. Most companies, however, do not presently separate development and production at the DBA level.

Educational Requirements :

In addition to the requirements of a DBA, all SQL Database Administrators will be expected to have a strong background in Windows NT or Windows 2000 and will be required to perform Windows administration as well. Knowledge of networking is also required. Familiarity with Microsoft technologies is an important factor for potential SQL Server DBA's. All phases of database development including analysis, design, construction, implementation, and maintenance and support are valuable skills.

Experience in all phases of the database development life cycle (analysis, design, construction, implementation, maintenance, and support) will make you a much more valuable candidate, as well. MCDBA certification would definetly be a plus for this position. Other knowledge includes :

• Microsoft Visual Studio
• TCP/IP Network Protocol
• Windows 2000 Server
• Microsoft IIS
• Microsoft MTS
• HTML, XML, Java
• Microsoft Exchange
• Crystal Reports
• ERWIN
• VISIO

Salary Potential :

(As reported by the U.S. Dept. of Labor)