Database Analyst

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

• 2006 NOC: Database Analysts (2172.1) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Database Analysts and Data Administrators (C072) 
• 2011 NOC: Database analysts and data administrators (2172) 

Database analysts develop database management systems. These systems provide ready access to stored electronic information. For instance, they may develop install, modify, and maintain inventory and sales systems or patient record systems.

Specific duties vary with the size and type of employer. In general, database analysts:

• customize commercial databases to meet specific needs
• modify existing databases when user needs and technological capacities change
• design and develop data models and database architecture (by translating abstract relationships into logical structures)
• work with users to assess system performance and modify systems
• train users
• provide technical support while new systems are tested and implemented
• extract and manipulate data to generate useful business information.

Database analysts may also:

• construct, install, and test database management systems
• advise other professionals on selecting, buying, and using database management tools.

In smaller companies a database analyst may also perform the duties of a data administrator. To learn more, see the Data Administrator occupational profile.

Database analysts work in modern offices with advanced information technology. In general, they work standard weekday office hours. They may need to work overtime to meet project deadlines, deal with emergencies, or make system changes. In some positions, they may have to travel.

The work can be stressful (when users become demanding or systems do not work as planned). Some database analysts work from home offices or remote locations.

Database analysts need to possess:

• the ability to learn quickly, think logically, and study information
• the ability to build abstract structures of complex relationships
• the ability to focus on details without losing sight of the whole
• an awareness of legal, policy, and privacy restrictions
• speaking, listening, and writing skills
• people skills
• stress management skills
• an active interest in keeping up with changes in technology.

They should enjoy:

• working with a wide variety of people
• working in a team setting
• solving problems.

Database analysts work for:

• IT consulting firms
• large public-sector organizations (such as government departments, hospitals, and education institutions)
• large private-sector organizations (such as financial institutions, telecommunications firms, and insurance companies).

Advancement often takes the form of greater responsibility. For instance, analysts may take charge of larger, more complex projects. With time on the job, some analysts become supervisors. Others establish their own consulting firms. Moving into management 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 [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events that affect overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities that come up when people leave existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities that come up when new positions are created)
• size of the occupation.

In Alberta, the C072: Database Analysts and Data Administrators occupational group is expected to have a below-average annual growth of 1.5% from 2016 to 2020. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 41 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.

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

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) of Alberta website: www.cipsalberta.ca

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

For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.