The Highest-Paying
Database Management Careers: 2021 List

Computer and Information Systems Manager

Min. Education Required: Master’s Degree in Database Administration, Data Science, Computer Science, or Information Technology

These managers direct tech-related activities for an organization. They guide IT teams during the day-to-day running of the company. An IT manager may also have a say on who gets hired in the department by actively contributing to the hiring process. IT managers approve new products ahead of replacements and new installations.

Apart from their technical skills, managers need business acumen and knowledge of accounting. They are often tasked with determining if a particular tech-related project is worth the price. They may also need to negotiate with other companies during the purchase of computer systems.

Computer and Information Research Scientist

Min. Education Required: Master’s Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or Information Technology

These experts are typically required to have advanced degrees in computer science, data science, or a related field. They work in the research and development department of companies, studying computing problems and providing solutions. Computer and information research scientists work in the medical, tech, science, and business sectors.

As a computer and information research scientist, you will be required to develop new database technology and find innovative uses for existing ones. Even if they may not manually create the technology, they work side by side with engineers to complete the development process.

Data Scientist

Min. Education Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or Information Technology

Some entry-level data scientist positions are available to those with a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science. However, hiring companies usually look for candidates with more education. If you have a bachelor’s degree and are looking to upskill to find a more lucrative career, consider attending one of the top data science bootcamps of 2021.

Data scientists use a range of algorithms, scientific methods, and innovative systems to extract insight and make predictions from raw data. If you choose this career path, you will analyze, process, and model data to get actionable results. You can work across industries that rely on data as long as you have the required skills.

A data scientist must pay attention to details and work well with others. You also need to be adaptable, ready to learn new strategies, and excited to master emerging technologies in your field.

Network Architect

Min. Education Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Technology

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a related field, you can land a rewarding career as a computer network architect. Your primary duties include building and maintaining data communication systems. This includes but is not limited to wide area networks (WANs) and intranets.

Network architects are expected to know everything about an organization’s short and long-term objectives. This allows them to develop custom-made data network systems. They are also in charge of securing these systems and preventing cyber attacks.

A computer network architect should be detail-oriented and have leadership, organizational and interpersonal skills. They should also have analytical minds that allow them to choose the most effective systems for an organization.

Database Developer

Min. Education Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or Information Technology

These experts are often called database programmers, and they are responsible for organizing and securing data using computer software. They typically work with software developers, designing, developing, and modifying existing databases for organizations.

Database developers monitor database performance to ensure that it is secure and only authorized parties have access to the information. When an organization updates its database, the database programmer will be responsible for merging the old database with the new one without compromising security or losing critical information.

The most popular database language used by programmers is Structured Query Language (SQL). You need to have excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills. You also need to pay attention to details.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Min. Education Required: Master’s Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or Information Technology

With a master’s degree, you can become the CTO of a tech company or a technology department. You will be responsible for everyone in the department. You will also focus on generating policies that will help the company take full advantage of technology. As the CTO, you would be the executive head of the entire technology department within a company.

Since it is an executive position, you will need many years of management experience before you can get a position as a CTO. You will work closely with other executives to make major decisions.

You need to be a charismatic leader who knows how to take charge and manage a team while keeping the best interests of the organization in mind. This requires good communication skills and a strategic mindset.

Information Security Analyst

Min Education Requirement: Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, or Information Technology

An information security analyst focuses primarily on securing databases and computer systems. They analyze systems consistently to make sure that there are no flaws and data remains secure. It is one of the fastest-growing database management and information technology careers, with expected job growth of 31 percent.

A security analyst examines the existing systems and decides which software, firewall, or security patch would be ideal for maximum security. They also assist other members of staff. You will need good communication skills and problem-solving instincts. If you want to become an information security analyst, you should also have a bachelor’s degree.

Database Administrator

Min Education Requirement: Bachelor’s Degree in Database Administration, Data Science, Computer Science, or Information Technology

A database administrator is an information technology specialist who is charged with sorting and securing data for an organization. They ensure that the database management software runs efficiently without glitches or unplanned interruptions. The information could include financial records or customer information.

Apart from maintaining existing systems, they install and revamp database management systems. They also train other employees of an organization to use new database systems and optimize its overall performance.

While a Bachelor’s Degree in Database Administration is important for this role, you can also succeed with a degree in information technology, computer science, or a similar field. You also need to have excellent leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Computer Systems Analyst

Min. Education Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Information Technology

Computer systems analysts are IT specialists who bridge the gap between information technology and business. They analyze computer systems, compare them to business strategies, and recommend the most efficient options to maximize performance. Depending on their findings, they may be required to design new database systems.

During the installation of new systems, computer systems analysts ensure that everything happens smoothly and according to the company’s specifications. Computer systems analysts are always researching and testing new technologies to add new, advanced features.

You need to be a creative and analytical thinker if you want to thrive as a computer systems analyst. It’s also essential that you have interpersonal and communication skills. You will be working closely with others in the IT department while liaising with management.

Teacher (Post-Secondary)

Min. Education Required: Master’s Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or Information Technology

With a master’s degree, you can secure a job as a post-secondary school instructor. You can teach database management at community colleges, bootcamps, traditional universities, professional development programs, and more. Apart from teaching, you will be responsible for grading exams and assessing the ability of your students.

You must have innovative ideas if you want to apply new and improved methods of teaching. You will need to develop instructional plans, lessons, and work directly with management to build curriculums. Teachers should have excellent interpersonal skills. They must be empathetic listeners, ask purposeful questions, be patient, and be self-confident.

Entry-Level Pay: $62,008

You will have similar responsibilities as a regular database administrator, but you will earn less and work under supervision. As you gain experience and prove yourself, you may be able to receive a raise or promotion to a senior-level database administrator.

Entry-Level Pay: $57,161

You can get a job as a SQL specialist even if you don’t have any prior experience. You must be a master of SQL programming, HTML, JavaScript to develop quality database solutions. If you are interested in database development, this is a great starting point.

Entry-Level Pay: $51,686

A data analyst gathers and analyzes data to draw meaningful conclusions. As with most other junior positions, these professionals work under the guidance of senior data analysts. They may be tasked with smaller projects or act as a member of an analysis team.

Entry-Level Pay: $49,611

Market research analysts analyze findings on consumers and the sales market to predict a product’s success. They use business intelligence skills and tools to perform their duties. This is a good choice if you are interested in both business and database management.

Entry-Level Pay: $44,918

These experts provide technical support for clients and employees within a company. These professionals can offer face-to-face support or work over digital channels like social media and email. They may also help people via phone calls.