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Database Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... designs; creation of overviews of logical database designs; creation of physical databases; database capacity planning; development and use of backup and recovery procedures for databases; database ...

DBA # 26-11938

Downey, CA

$51.75 - $64.50/hr

... designs Creation of overviews of logical database designs Creation of physical databases; database capacity planning; development and use of backup and recovery procedures for databases; database ...

SQL DBA

Martinez, CA

$58.25 - $72.75/hr

Implements data models, database designs, data access, and code. Develop, test, analyze, and maintain software applications in support of business requirements. Day to day duties will include data ...

Enterprise Database Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Experience designing and executing cloud database migration strategies, particularly migrating on-prem SQL Server environments to AWS RDS, is highly desirable. This role plays a key part in ensuring ...

DATABASE DEVELOPER

Norco, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Designing, coding, and debugging stored procedures, functions, packages, and triggers using PL/SQL. Performance Tuning: Analyzing SQL queries and optimizing database performance, indexing, and tuning ...

... designing next-gen UI/UX for interfacing with data to scaling our services and infrastructure ... Lakebase enables teams to deliver applications faster with an optimized database developer ...

SQL DBA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$53 - $66.25/hr

Designs, develops and maintains city databases hosted on various database servers that serve applications across all departments. * Troubleshoots database performance problems and provides solutions ...

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Database Designer information

See California salary details

$47

$63

$77

How much do database designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for database designer in California is $63.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57.16 and $70.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges database designers face when collaborating with software development teams?

Database designers often work closely with software developers to ensure that data structures align with application requirements. A common challenge is balancing optimal database performance with the flexibility developers need for evolving features. Communication is key, as misunderstandings about data relationships or normalization can lead to inefficient queries or data redundancy. Regular meetings, clear documentation, and the use of collaborative tools help bridge these gaps and result in a robust, scalable database design.

What is the difference between Database Designer vs Database Administrator?

AspectDatabase DesignerDatabase Administrator
Primary RoleDesigns database structures and schemasMaintains, secures, and optimizes databases
Skills & CertificationsData modeling, SQL, ER diagramsDatabase management, security, backup/recovery
Work EnvironmentDesign phase, project-basedOperational, ongoing management
Industry UsageUsed during initial database developmentUsed for daily database operations

While both roles work with databases, the Database Designer focuses on creating the structure and schema, whereas the Database Administrator manages and maintains the database systems on a daily basis. They often collaborate but serve different functions within database management.

What does a database designer do?

A database designer creates and organizes the structure of databases to ensure efficient data storage, retrieval, and management. They analyze data requirements, develop data models, and use tools like SQL to implement the design, often collaborating with developers and stakeholders. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of database management systems are essential for this role.

Is DBA still in demand?

Database Administrators (DBAs) remain in demand due to the ongoing need for data management, security, and performance optimization in organizations. Skills in SQL, cloud platforms, and database tuning are highly valued, and many companies continue to hire DBAs to maintain critical systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Database Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Database Designer, you need expertise in database modeling, SQL, and a strong understanding of data architecture principles, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with relational database management systems (RDBMS) like Oracle, MySQL, or Microsoft SQL Server, and certifications such as Oracle Certified Professional or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate are valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and translate business requirements into efficient designs. These skills ensure that databases are robust, scalable, and aligned with organizational goals, which is critical for data integrity and business operations.

What Is a Database Designer?

A database designer develops computer programs that store data and automate specific tasks. When beginning a project, database designers define the scope and establish the database parameters. Plans may include indexes and constraints that allow users or other designers to access the content easily and implement proper database administration protocols. Designers often work as part of large development teams that include software designers, information technology technicians, and other data scientists.

Can I become a DBA with no experience?

Becoming a database administrator (DBA) typically requires some experience with database management, SQL, and related tools. Entry-level positions may be available for those with strong technical skills, relevant certifications, and a solid understanding of database concepts, but most DBAs gain experience through roles such as database support or development first.

How much do database designers make?

Database designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in SQL, data modeling, and database management tools can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.
What are popular job titles related to Database Designer jobs in California? For Database Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Database Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Database Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Database Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Database Designer job openings:
Mainframe Database Administrator (DBA)

Mainframe Database Administrator (DBA)

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Downey, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Mainframe Database Administrator (DBA)
Downey, CA
12+ months

Position Description:
A Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA is responsible for leading and/or supporting the most complex database upgrade projects, modification, installation, testing, implementation, maintenance and enhancements of new or existing system software products. This classification must plan, install, configure, test, implement and manage core database products, software products in support of the County's database architecture and business needs. Special organizational or functional industry position titles for Systems Programmer/DBA include, but are not limited to, DB2 Systems Programmer/DBA, IMS Systems Programmer/DBA and ADABAS/NATURAL Systems Programmer/DBA.
Skills Required:
The Mainframe Systems Programmer/DBA for Legacy Systems manages different types of databases, such as hierarchical (IMS), relational (DB2), and file-based (ADABAS), and is responsible for planning and upgrading the database environments on a County-established basis; verifying the health of all the databases; database administration technical consulting for application and operations teams for the purpose of project planning/development; maintenance on production database systems; performance of technical reviews for existing systems that utilize one of the following database management systems (DBMS): ADABAS, DB2 or IMS; performance of evaluations for the purposes of selecting new or fine-tuning existing DBMS software; consultation with project development teams to provide recommendations on database design; development of logical and physical database designs; creation of overviews of logical database designs; creation of physical databases; database capacity planning; development and use of backup and recovery procedures for databases; database performance monitoring; database space monitoring; database reorganizations; database replication; database compression and database partitioning. The following technology skill sets are required to perform in this classification. IBM: Z/OS, IMS, DB2, ADABAS, SMP/E, JCL, IMS DB/DC, CICS, ACF2, ASSEMBLER/COBOL/REXX, IBM FILE MANAGER, DELTA/IMS, NATURAL/ SUPERNAT, ENTIREX, CA SPOOL, IMS & DB2 BMC Tools, N20/TRIM.
This classification must have a minimum of seven (7) years of experience as a Systems Programming/ DBA, with at least three (3) years of that experience in a lead role.
This classification requires the possession of a bachelor's degree in an IT-related or engineering field.
Skills Preferred:
Z/OS 2.4,HCD/IODEF , Z13S,Z15,SMP/E, ASSEMBLER, JCL, COBOL,ACF2,SYSPLEX coupling facility,, HMC (Processor Interface), OSA (Networking Interface), ICC (Integrated Console Controller), FICON (Fiber connectivity to peripheral devices),z/OS Open System and Unix Systems Services (USS) on the Mainframe. ,CLIST, REXX,, FICON switch configuration and definition in HCD, Server Time Protocol (STP) configuration.
Z/OS upgrade experience, Mainframe hardware upgrade, HCD & HMC Experience, mainframe storage experience are preferred.
Regards
Naresh Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: naresh.d@wati.com