Database Administrator

General Description

Database administrators are responsible for accurately and securely using, maintaining and developing computerized databases within an organization.

• Establish the needs of users and monitor user access and security.
• Monitor performance and manage parameters in order to provide fast responses to front‑end users.
• Map out the conceptual design for a planned database.
• Consider both back‑end organisation of data and front‑end accessibility for end‑users.
• Refine the logical design so that it can be translated into a specific data model.
• Further refining the physical design to meet system storage requirements.
• Install and test new versions of the database management system (DBMS).
• Maintain data standards, including adherence to the Data Protection Act.
• Write database documentation, including data standards, procedures and definitions for the data dictionary (metadata).
• Control access permissions and privileges.
• Develop, manage and test back‑up and recovery plans.
• Ensure that storage and archiving procedures are functioning correctly.
• Carry out capacity planning.
• Work closely with IT project managers, database programmers and multimedia programmers.
• Communicate regularly with technical, applications and operational staff to ensure database integrity and security.
• Commission and install new applications and customise existing applications in order to make them fit for purpose.
• Manage the security and disaster recovery aspects of a database.

• Working with database software to find ways to store, organise and manage data
• Troubleshooting
• Keeping databases up to date
• Helping with database design and development
• Managing database access
• Designing maintenance procedures and putting them into operation
• Ensuring that databases meet user requirements
• Liaising with programmers, applications/operational staff, IT project managers and other technical staff
• Managing database security/integrity and backup procedures
• Implementing security measures
• Defining objectives through consultation with staff at all levels
• Writing reports, documentation and operating manuals
• Testing and modifying databases to ensure that they operate reliably
• Providing user training, support and feedback
• Archiving data.
• This role can involve working to tight deadlines and when necessary, long hours.

A qualification in a relevant subject such as computer science, software engineering, electronic engineering, mathematics or software engineering can be advantageous. For graduates without relevant qualifications or experience, a postgraduate qualification in computing, IT or operational research is beneficial. Previous work experience is often necessary, and can be gained through IT or technology‑related industrial placements.

• A logical approach to work
• The ability to manage and prioritise tasks
• Problem‑solving skills
• Good organisational skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Familiarity with computer operating systems and database technology (design, software and structure)

• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills
• Good communication, teamwork and negotiation skills
• Familiarity with the main data manipulation languages and the principles of database design
• The ability to work to tight deadlines under pressure
• Good organisational skills
• Flexibility and adaptability
• The ability to create and maintain strong working relationships with colleagues and customers
• Business awareness and understanding of business requirements of IT
• A willingness to keep up to date with developments in new technology
• A commitment to continuing professional development (CPD)
• An understanding of information legislation, such as the Data Protection Act.
• Broad and deep technical experience with proven leadership in evaluating risk
• Broad depth of cyber security knowledge, understanding of security best practices, threats, mitigating techniques and the ever‑evolving security landscape
• Possesses fundamental knowledge of industrial automation solutions (e.g. SCADA and DCS), telecom solutions, IT solutions, ERP solutions, cloud‑based solutions and mobile technologies
• Strong analytical, architecture, and integration skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
  
  Strong focus on first time quality
• Desire to grow technical skills and ability to learn new technologies swiftly
• High attention to detail, self‑starter, result driven
• Ability to work in a cross‑functional team

PMU offers an income tax‑free compensation package, commensurate with rank and experience.