What is a Database Developer?

Database Developers, also called database programmers, are primarily responsible for creating and implementing computer databases. They determine the best database management system for a particular client, as well as test database programs for efficiency and performance and troubleshoot and correct problems.

A Database Developer typically works for a corporate IT department in any industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for Database Administrators, which includes Database Developers, is expected to increase 11 percent through 2024. This above-average growth is attributed to the increasing data needs of all types of companies.

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Database Developer Duties and Responsibilities

In order to create efficient databases for a wide range of clients, Database Developers must complete a variety of tasks. We looked at job listings and other resources to identify these core Database Developer duties and responsibilities.

Design Database Systems

The main responsibility of a Database Developer is to analyze the data needs of a company and produce an effective database system to meet those needs. This requires knowledge of database administration software, programming languages, architectures, data models and data integrity practices.

Test New Products

Database Developers must be able to run performance-testing procedures to ensure the proper operations of a database. This responsibility includes troubleshooting any potential problems and creating and submitting testing reports and information about improving the database system if necessary.

Develop Database Documentation

A Database Developer must create documentation about the database system and provide an operational manual and supporting documentation. This would include adding information as any changes or improvements to the database are implemented.

Database Developer Skills

It is important for Database Developers to possess strong analytical, problem solving, organizational and problem-solving skills. Oral and written communication skills are also a must. Database Developers should be able to work within a team and also independently, as they must often work out database solutions and test systems on their own. In addition to these specific professional and personal traits, potential employers might seek Database Developers who possess the following skills.

Core skills Based on job listings and other sources we analyzed, employers want Database Developers with these core skills. If you want to work as a Database Developer, focus on the following.

  • Applying technical design and development skills to the creation of database programs
  • Analyzing existing databases and data needs of clients to develop effective systems
  • Using knowledge of specific programming languages and codes
  • Following implementation processes for new databases
  • Troubleshooting and providing solutions for any bugs in new database applications

Advanced skills While most employers did not require the following skills, multiple job listings included them as preferred. Add these to your database development toolbox and broaden your career options.

  • Knowledge of new and emerging technologies
  • Advanced SQL skills
  • Experience in teaching and mentor new developers
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Database Developer Salary

According to the BLS, database administration and development workers earn a median annual salary of $81,710 in the U.S., with the bottom 10 percent earning $45,460 and the top 10 percent taking home a $127,080. Database Developers in New Jersey earned the highest annual median salary of $105,450, with those in the District of Columbia ($99,370) and California ($94,510) coming in second and third.

Database Developer Resources

We have put together the following resources to further help you understand the roles and responsibilities of Database Developers while you contemplate this career. These resources provide more insight into what it means to be a Database Developer.

On the Web
Codecentric Blog

Find out the latest news and thoughts about database and other programming technologies using this blog. Review blogs and articles in areas of architecture, performance, cloud and more.

Database Journal

This site provides database technology news, forums and articles for Database Developers, programmers and administrators.

Database Trends and Applications

An online magazine that provides news, videos, webinars and case studies for those working in the fields of database development and administration.

Industry Groups
PASS

Database Developers working with Microsoft data technology will find this organization useful, with its offering of career development and product learning conferences and online events.

DAMA International

A nonprofit organization for data professionals, DAMA provides webinars, speakers and online articles covering best practices and recent technologies in the database administration and development fields.

Books
Beginning Database Design Solutions

From developing a database’s structure to building data models, this comprehensive book covers everything professionals and beginners would need to know to create efficient databases.

Advantage Database Server: A Developer’s Guide

A thorough guide showing how to use the Advantage Database Server to create databases. Gives details about using advanced features in any development environment.

Expert Oracle Database Architecture 3rd Edition

This book covers everything Database Developers need to know to work with Oracle databases. You’ll learn how to manage files, load data, solve problems and more.

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