Database analysts are computer specialists who design, develop, modify and maintain database management systems to meet specific user needs.

Database analysts develop database management systems to provide efficient, effective access to information stored in large databases. For example, database analysts may develop and maintain inventory and sales systems, patient record systems or systems such as the one used to publish this profile on the Internet.

Specific duties and responsibilities vary depending on the size and type of employer. However, in general, database analysts:

• define system requirements by consulting data administrators (for more information, see the Data Administrator profile) and talking to system users about the types of information (data) needed, how data should be organized, who should have access to different types of data and how data should be reported (displayed or printed)
• design and develop data models (which describe elements of the data and how they are used) and database architecture by translating abstract relationships into logical structures
• construct, install and test database management systems
• work with users to assess system performance and modify systems as needed
• advise other professionals regarding the selection, purchase and use of database management tools.

Database analysts also may:

• train users and provide technical support while new systems are being tested and implemented
• modify existing databases as user needs and technological capabilities change
• customize commercial databases to meet specific needs.

Database analysts work in modern offices with sophisticated information technology. They usually work standard weekday office hours but may be required to work overtime to meet project deadlines, deal with emergencies or implement system changes. In some positions, travel is required.

The work can be stressful when users are demanding or systems do not work as planned.

Database analysts need related post-secondary education. Employers may prefer to hire applicants who have a four year bachelor's degree in computer science or a related discipline that has a significant programming component.

In Alberta, universities, colleges, technical institutes and private vocational schools offer a wide variety of degree, diploma and certificate programs related to computer science. For a list, see the Computer Programmer profile or check EDinfo. Graduates must continuously upgrade their knowledge because computer technology is constantly changing.

Prospective database analysts are strongly advised to talk to potential employers about required and preferred qualifications before enrolling in an education or training program.

Information Systems Professional is a protected title under Alberta's Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act. This means that to call yourself an Information Systems Professional or use the I.S.P. designation, you must be a registered member of the Canadian Information Processing Society of Alberta (CIPS Alberta). You do not have to be registered if you do not call yourself an Information Systems Professional.

Database analysts are employed by:

• information technology consulting firms
• large public sector organizations such as government departments, hospitals and education institutions
• large private sector organizations such as financial institutions, telecommunications companies and insurance companies.

Advancement generally takes the form of greater responsibility for larger, more complex projects. Some experienced database analysts advance to supervisory positions or establish their own consulting firms. Advancement to management positions may require formal education in business administration.

Database analysts are part of a larger National Occupational Classification 2172: Database Analysts and Data Administrators. In Alberta, 79 per cent of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services
• Information, Culture and Recreation
• Public Administration
• Mining and Oil and Gas Extraction
• Educational Services
• Finance, Insurance, Real Estate and Leasing.

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next ten years.

Salaries for database analysts vary depending on the responsibilities of the position and the analyst's education and experience.

According to the 2007 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey, Albertans in the Database Analysts and Data Administrators occupational group working part time or full time earned from $29,700 to $101,100 a year. The average salary was $65,900 a year.

EDinfo website: www.alis.alberta.ca/edinfo

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) website: www.cips.ca

Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) website: www.ictc-ctic.ca

Discover IT website: www.discoverit.org