Alis – Career, learning and employment information for Albertans
This website uses cookies to give you a better online experience. By using this website or closing this message, you are agreeing to our cookie policy. More information
Alberta
ALIS
Alberta Supports Contact Centre

Toll Free 1-877-644-9992

Guest Account Sign In Sign Up Search
Add this page to a custom guide
Database Analyst: Occupations in Alberta - alis
Do you like working on computers and keeping up with technology? Do you have a talent for turning abstract ideas into logical solutions? Then you may want to consider a career as a database analyst.
Create a New Guide
Give your guide a nickname
Only you can see this nickname.
Create Guide or cancel
Please complete the recaptcha and try again.
Choose a guide...

There was an error. Please try again.

This page is already listed in your guide. Please choose a different page to add.

Create New Guide What is an alis guide?
OCC info
Occupations in Alberta
©
iStockphoto/krasnopolski

Database Analyst

Database analysts are computer specialists who design, develop, modify, and maintain database management systems to meet specific user needs.

Contents View Full Profile
Also Known As

Computer Database Analyst, Computer Specialist, Database Architect, Database Administrator (DBA), Information Technology Specialist

NOC Codes

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) 
  • 2016 NOC: Database analysts and data administrators (2172) 
Interests & Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Database Analysts

2006 NOC: 2172.1

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
INNOVATIVE

Interest in synthesizing information to design, construct, modify, implement and test data models and database management systems, and to design and develop database architecture for information systems projects

METHODICAL

Interest in precision working to operate database management systems to analyze data; in ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards; and in implementing and maintaining database access and security control

DIRECTIVE

Interest in consulting to conduct research and provide advice on the selection, application and implementation of database management tools

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Abilities

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Mental Abilities

General Learning Ability

Verbal Ability

Numerical Ability

Visual Abilities

Spatial Perception

Form Perception

Clerical Perception

Physical Abilities

Motor Coordination

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Understanding Abilities

A Quick Guide

You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Learn About Abilities

Duties
Updated Apr 08, 2022

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 others to access database information
  • 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.

Working Conditions
Updated Apr 08, 2022
  • Strength Required Lift up to 5 kg

Database analysts work in 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, such as when users become demanding, or systems do not work as planned. Some database analysts work from home offices or other remote locations.

Traits & Skills
Updated Apr 08, 2022

Database analysts need:

  • To learn quickly, think logically, and study information
  • To build abstract structures that represent complex relationships
  • To focus on details without losing sight of the whole
  • An awareness of legal, policy, and privacy restrictions
  • Speaking, listening, and writing skills
  • To work on a team
  • 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

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Database analysts and data administrators

2016 NOC: 2172

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 100 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Jan 14, 2023 and Jun 08, 2023.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Tasks: Operate database management systems to analyze data
Tasks: Design, construct, modify, implement and test data models and database management systems
Tasks: Design and develop database
Tasks: Collect and document user's requirements
Tasks: Conduct research and provide advice to other informatics professionals regarding the selection application and implementation of database management tools
Tasks: Research and document data requirements, data collection and administration policy, and data access rules
Attention to detail
Tasks: Develop policies and procedures for network access and usage and for the backup and recovery of data
Tasks: Conduct research and provide advice to other information systems professionals regarding the collection, availability and suitability of data
Tasks: Develop and implement data administration policy, standards and models
Tasks: Operate database management systems to analyze data 84
Tasks: Design, construct, modify, implement and test data models and database management systems 80
Tasks: Design and develop database 76
Tasks: Collect and document user's requirements 69
Tasks: Conduct research and provide advice to other informatics professionals regarding the selection application and implementation of database management tools 64
Tasks: Research and document data requirements, data collection and administration policy, and data access rules 64
Attention to detail 62
Tasks: Develop policies and procedures for network access and usage and for the backup and recovery of data 62
Tasks: Conduct research and provide advice to other information systems professionals regarding the collection, availability and suitability of data 61
Tasks: Develop and implement data administration policy, standards and models 60
Educational Requirements
Updated Apr 08, 2022
  • Minimum Education 2 years post-secondary

Database analysts need related post-secondary education. Employers may prefer to hire applicants who have a certificate, diploma, or 4-year bachelor’s degree. The credentials should be in computer science or a related discipline. They should include a strong programming component.

Aspiring database analysts should talk to potential employers about required and preferred qualifications before enrolling in an education or training program.

Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

Athabasca University
Bow Valley College
Canford Institute of Technology
ERP College
Grant MacEwan University
Lighthouse Labs - Calgary
Mount Royal University
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
Northwestern Polytechnic
Robertson College - Calgary
Robertson College - Edmonton
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
The King's University
University of Alberta
University of Calgary
University of Lethbridge

To expand or narrow your search for programs related to this occupation, visit Post-Secondary Programs.

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements
Updated Apr 08, 2022
  • Certification Provincially Regulated

Certain professional titles or duties within this occupation are protected by provincial legislation. Requirements vary if you use these titles or perform these duties.

The related legislation is shown below. If there are multiple related legislations, select a certification heading to learn about each one.

Information Systems Professional

Information systems professionals investigate, analyze, design, develop, or manage information systems based on computer and related technologies. They do so objectively applying specialized knowledge and professional judgement.

Legislation

Information Systems Professional is a protected title under Alberta’s Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act [pdf]. This means that to call yourself an Information Systems Professional or use the I.S.P. designation, you must be a registered member of the Canadian Information Processing Society of Alberta (CIPS Alberta).

You do not have to be registered if you do not call yourself an Information Systems Professional.

For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Information Systems Professional.

Employment & Advancement
Updated Apr 08, 2022

Database analysts work for:

  • IT consulting firms
  • Data-focused software companies
  • 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.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

In the 2172: Database analysts and data administrators occupational group, 78.5% of people work in:

Employment Outlook

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

©
iStock.com/filadendron
OCCinfo

Employment Outlook

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors. Learn how these factors can affect your career decisions.
  • Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
  • Location in Alberta
  • Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
  • Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
  • Size of the occupation
  • Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list

In Alberta, the 2172: Database analysts and data administrators occupational group is expected to have an above-average annual growth of 2% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 77 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.

Note
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For example, only some of the new positions to be created will be for this occupation. It also applies to other data for the NOC group such as number of people employed.

Source: 2019-2023 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

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

Related Alberta Job Postings
Wage & Salary
Updated Apr 08, 2022

Earnings vary depending on the job description and the analyst’s education and experience.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Database analysts and data administrators

2016 NOC: 2172
Average Wage
$45.34
Per Hour
Average Salary
$89,162.00
Per Year
Average Hours
37.6
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
 2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 2172 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $21.60 $55.96 $36.78 $36.06
Overall $25.76 $69.68 $45.34 $45.19
Top $29.28 $82.15 $53.76 $53.33

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

Public Administration
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
ALL INDUSTRIES
Manufacturing
Health Care & Social Assistance
Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, Leasing
Information, Culture, Recreation
Public Administration $96,417
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services $92,095
ALL INDUSTRIES $89,162
Manufacturing $86,355
Health Care & Social Assistance $79,422
Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, Leasing $75,996
Information, Culture, Recreation $71,409

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
19%
19%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
20%
20%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
0%
0%
Vacancy Rate
N/A
Related High School Subjects
  • Business, Administration, Finance and IT
    • Computing Science
    • Information Processing
    • Management and Marketing
  • English Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Science
    • Physics
Related Post-Secondary Field of Study
  • Computer and Information Technology
Other Sources of Information
Updated Apr 08, 2022

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

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

Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.

Updated Mar 31, 2022. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.

View Full Profile
Was this page useful?
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆