What Is a Database Manager and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A database manager has several duties, such as maintaining database results and performance, enforcing and setting controls and standards for the company, and troubleshooting problems with the data or system. The records that you work with as a manager may be financial or other pertinent information for the company. You often work with other employees, such as an administrator, to engage in data sharing, store information, or implement new database elements. Other tasks may include developing procedures, policies, and controls to secure the database, informing senior technical management about system problems, and upgrading the software and hardware as necessary.

The minimum qualifications to become a database manager include at least a bachelor’s degree in a technology-related discipline. Having experience working in information technology is also beneficial. You should consider completing an internship before or immediately after graduation to gain some hands-on experience before applying for jobs. Some employers look for a master’s degree in information technology. It is beneficial to specialize in database administration as you pursue your graduate degree. A database manager should have strong technical skills and proficiency in database management, data maintenance, and database design.

As a database manager, you manage and update a database. They do not delete or create a database from scratch. A database administrator, on the other hand, works to create or design, update, manage, and delete databases. The administrator essentially has more freedom and responsibilities compared to a database manager. However, the database administrator is usually under the supervision of a database manager. The administrator needs a high level of knowledge regarding how a database works. The manager does have some knowledge of the database, but they do not need the same expertise as the administrator.