At a glance, a database administrator is focused on three things throughout their day: protecting the data, protecting the data and protecting the data. With the growing reliance on computers and database systems, businesses need these professionals to keep their electronic data safe, secure and well-managed.
Databases are used throughout the energy industry to store, track and organize information for thousands of employees daily. Database administration refers to the whole set of activities performed to ensure that a database, and the information it contains, is always available as needed by the business.
Database administrators (DBA) use specialized software to store and organize electronic data. They handle the day-to-day operation of database management systems such as SAP, Microsoft SQL Server or Oracle SQL. Additionally, they are often responsible for developing and introducing related policies and standards for employee use of these databases.
DBAs may work in teams within large companies or be the sole expert in a smaller company. They understand database languages, the most common of which is Structured Query Language (SQL), which is used in programming and managing data held in relational database management systems.
I'm interested in a career in
- Sub-sector Exploration and production, Oil and gas services, Pipelines, Offshore, Oil sands
- Environment Primarily indoor/office work
- Average Salary $67,000 to $117,000
- Education Post-secondary degree
- Career Demand Stable
In this occupation activities may include:
- Researching and documenting data requirements, data collection and administration policy, data access rules and security.
- Specifying users and user access levels for each segment of the databases.
- Monitoring and modifying existing databases and database management systems, or directing programmers and analysts to make changes, to customize for specific company needs.
- Developing and implementing data administration policy, standards and models.
- Approving, scheduling, planning, and supervising the installation and testing of new products and improvements to computer systems, such as the installation of new databases.
Education
- A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field is typically required.
- Computer programming experience may be required.
Certifications
- Some employers require applicants to become trained or certified for a specific type of network environment such as:
- SAP HANA
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Oracle SQL
- IBM Db2
- There may be a preference for certification/ experience with PL/SQL, Java, SSRS, Python, C++, etc.
Licensing
- The title Information Systems Professional is a protected title under Alberta’s Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act. An IT practitioner does not have to be registered if they do not refer to themselves as an Information Systems Professional.
Additional Requirements
- Specific health and safety certifications may be required, determined by location of work and company requirements
Nature of work and environment conditions specific to oil and natural gas include:
- Travel likely required
- Primarily indoor/office work
- Work not physically demanding
You use your analytical nature to organize large amounts of data into a meaningful pattern that’s easily used. You often work on teams, so you need strong communications and interpersonal skills as well. From a technical viewpoint, you understand database languages, the most common of which is Structured Query Language (SQL), which is used in programming and managing data.
- Customer and Personal Service
- Information and Document Management
- Cyber/Data Security
- Data Entry
- Interpreting Documents/Plans
- Writing, Technical Writing, Document Production
- Installation
- Systems Evaluation and Analysis
- Coordination
- Planning and Organizing
- Troubleshooting
- Attention to Detail
