Database Analyst

Database analysts develop database management systems to provide efficient, effective access to information stored in large databases. For example, database analysts may develop and maintain inventory and sales systems, patient record systems or systems such as the one used to publish this profile on the Internet.

Specific duties and responsibilities vary depending on the size and type of employer. However, in general, database analysts:

• define system requirements by consulting data administrators (for more information, see the Data Administrator profile) and talking to system users about the types of information (data) needed, how data should be organized, who should have access to different types of data and how data should be reported (displayed or printed)
• design and develop data models (which describe elements of the data and how they are used) and database architecture by translating abstract relationships into logical structures
• construct, install and test database management systems
• work with users to assess system performance and modify systems as needed
• advise other professionals regarding the selection, purchase and use of database management tools.

Database analysts also may:

• train users and provide technical support while new systems are being tested and implemented
• modify existing databases as user needs and technological capabilities change
• customize commercial databases to meet specific needs.

Database analysts work in modern offices with sophisticated information technology. They usually work standard weekday office hours but may be required to work overtime to meet project deadlines, deal with emergencies or implement system changes. In some positions, travel is required.

The work can be stressful when users are demanding or systems do not work as planned.

Database analysts need the following characteristics:

• the ability to learn quickly, think logically and analyze information
• the ability to build abstract structures of complex relationships
• the ability to focus on details without losing sight of the project as a whole
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• good stress management skills
• an active interest in keeping up with technological advances.

They should enjoy working with people from a wide variety of backgrounds, working in a team environment and solving problems.

Below-average occupational growth is expected in Alberta for 2016 to 2020. Job openings are a result of employment turnover and newly created positions.

Database analysts are employed by:

• information technology consulting firms
• large public sector organizations such as government departments, hospitals and education institutions
• large private sector organizations such as financial institutions, telecommunications companies and insurance companies.

Advancement generally takes the form of greater responsibility for larger, more complex projects. Some experienced database analysts advance to supervisory positions or establish their own consulting firms. Advancement to management positions may require formal education in business administration.

Database analysts are part of a larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2172: Database analysts and data administrators. In Alberta, 77% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (PDF)
• Mining and Oil and Gas Extraction (PDF)
• Educational Services (PDF)
• Public Administration (PDF)
• Information, Culture and Recreation (PDF)
• Wholesale Trade (PDF)
• Transportation and Warehousing (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Over 2,700 Albertans are employed in the Database analysts and data administrators occupational group. This group is expected to have a below-average annual growth of 1.5% from 2016 to 2020. As a result, 41 new positions are forecast to be created each year, in addition to job openings created by employment turnover. Note: As database analysts form only a part of this larger occupational group, only some of these newly created positions will be for database analysts.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) website: www.cips.ca

Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) website: www.ictc-ctic.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.