1

Database Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Oracle DBA

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$55.25 - $75.25/hr

Database Administrator Required Skills - Oracle DBA, Performance Tuning Experience, Aurora Postgres, Aurora MySQL, Delphix Masking, Delphix Virtualization Designing and maintaining schemas based on ...

Database Developer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33.50 - $43.50/hr

The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining database solutions and maintaining data governance. Daily duties will be focused on maintaining data ...

Database Administrator III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

Salary: $115k-$160k (depending on experience) The Database Administrator III supports the Navy by designing, implementing, and maintaining enterprise database systems supporting global Live Virtual ...

Database Administrator III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

Salary: $115k-$160k (depending on experience) The Database Administrator III supports the Navy by designing, implementing, and maintaining enterprise database systems supporting global Live Virtual ...

Salary: $115k-$160k (depending on experience) The Database Administrator III supports the Navy by designing, implementing, and maintaining enterprise database systems supporting global Live Virtual ...

Sr. CMDB Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$112K - $154K/yr

Translate business and technical requirements into CMDB designs, models, diagrams, documentation, and enterprise architecture artifacts. * Administer and maintain the enterprise CMDB platform (e.g ...

Sr. CMDB Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$112K - $154K/yr

Translate business and technical requirements into CMDB designs, models, diagrams, documentation, and enterprise architecture artifacts. * Administer and maintain the enterprise CMDB platform (e.g ...

Sr. Database Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $152K/yr

... designs • A 'builder' mindset with a focus on impact, ownership, and the agility to solve 'unsolvable' technical challenges Preferred : • AWS Certified Database - Specialty or AWS Certified ...

Showing results 41-60

Database Designer information

See California salary details

$47

$63

$77

How much do database designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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 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.

What does a database designer do?

A Database Designer is responsible for planning, creating, and managing the structure of databases that store and organize data for organizations. They analyze data requirements, design database models, and ensure that databases are efficient, secure, and scalable. Database Designers work closely with developers and system administrators to implement and maintain database systems that support business operations. Their work is essential for ensuring data integrity and supporting the performance of applications that rely on databases.

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 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.

Can I become a database designer with no experience?

Becoming a database designer typically requires knowledge of database management systems, data modeling, and SQL, which can be learned through self-study, online courses, or formal education. Entry-level positions may be available to those with strong analytical skills and a willingness to learn, but gaining experience through internships or certifications can improve job prospects.

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:

Infographic showing various Database Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,409 per year, or $63.7 per hour.

Database Administrator

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Global Fund For Women
Non-Profits • 11 - 50 employees

$85K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

OVERVIEW
Global Fund for Women envisions a world where movements for gender justice have transformed power and privilege for a few into equity and equality for all. We fund bold, ambitious, and expansive gender justice movements to create meaningful change that will last beyond our lifetimes.
SUMMARY
The Role: The Database Administrator ensures robust database operations, manages user requests, and plays a key role in assessing business needs, analyzing and optimizing processes, and contributing to ongoing process improvements and enhancements to our customized database. With a solid understanding of the Salesforce platform, the Database Administrator drives best practices and promotes effective use of the system across the organization through trainings, documentation, and establishing strong organizational processes.
The Team: Using a participatory, user-centered approach, Information & Knowledge Management staff engage diverse groups of representative stakeholders directly in the design process to strengthen shared practices, workflows, and technology so teams can collaborate effectively, make informed decisions, and deliver greater impact. They work closely with staff at Global Fund for Women to ensure that business processes and information infrastructures align with evolving needs.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Collaborative Analysis & Design: Engage in participatory design work, independently and in collaboration with the team, to understand and map workflows, analyze data and process requirements, assess technical constraints, and identify opportunities to improve efficiency across the organization.
Data & database management: Establish and maintain clear and consistent practices to ensure data integrity and database security by managing user permissions, implementing validation rules, and monitoring data cleanliness and accuracy. Support the development of reports, dashboards, and data visualizations.
Customizations & enhancements: Enhance cross-team efforts to effectively integrate business processes and information systems across the organization. Customize and develop templates, macros, and forms within the database to support evolving needs.
Skills Development: Engage with staff across teams to provide technical assistance around the database and enhance knowledge and skills to optimize its utility. Through training and guidance, help create and foster a culture of shared learning and continual development of skills and expertise.
KEY TALENTS/WAYS OF BEING
  • Demonstrated commitment to international gender justice and feminist values, including open communication, inclusiveness, and collective care.
  • Strong interpersonal and written communication skills, including emotional intelligence, transparency, and the ability to build trust with diverse teams.
  • Ability to work independently and proactively in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities with strong organization, time management, and follow-through.
  • Collaborative decision-maker who actively elicits input, listens deeply, and fosters collective decision-making through strong facilitation.
  • Skilled at balancing big-picture strategy with attention to operational details.
  • Actively promotes a workplace culture that upholds equity, inclusion, and justice at all levels.

KEY SKILLS/WAYS OF DOING
Required
  • Salesforce Platform Administrator certification
  • At least 5 years of combined Business Analyst and Database admin experience in a nonprofit setting
  • Experience independently developing advanced flows, custom logic, validation rules, duplicate management approaches, approval processes, stage management, and other Salesforce processes
  • Demonstrated experience leading complex database admin projects and independently managing work
  • Application of best practices around Salesforce administration
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to understand, assess, and articulate complex processes.
  • Ability to recognize interdependencies, critical points of technical significance, and broader impacts when designing processes and solutions
  • Strong understanding of relational databases and database architecture/design.
  • Experience working in a diverse, team-oriented, and fast-paced environment

Strongly Preferred
  • Experience in project management and/or process improvement
  • Salesforce Platform Administrator II certification
  • Knowledge of and experience with data migration and systems integration
  • Oral and written fluency in one or more languages in which Global Fund for Women grantmaking operates (Spanish, Russian, Arabic, French)

Salary range of $85,000 - $130,000*
*This range is reflective of our high-market geo and will vary based on the candidate's city and state of residence.
Global Fund for Women is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, disability, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by law. Women, people of color, and LGBTQI candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. We value the benefit of a diverse workforce which includes neurodiversity. If you have a neurodiverse or other condition and there is something we can do to take that into account as we look to fill this position, please let us know as you apply to this post. The salary range reflects the San Francisco Bay Area salary scales and will be adjusted based on city, state, and/or country of the candidate so that we can ensure internal equity.