data administrator

National Occupation Classification Code: 2172.2

OCCUPATION INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW:

What are the main duties of a Data Administrator in Alberta?

Data Administrators manage computer systems that provide efficient, effective access to information (data) stored in large databases. They are responsible for the day-to-day operation of database management systems and for long range planning regarding system design and operation.

Typical duties include:

• Managing, monitoring and maintaining company databases
• Making requested changes, updates and modifications to database structure and data
• Ensuring database integrity, stability and system availability
• Maintaining database backup and recovery information
• Develop and implement data administration policies (which describe the types of information collected, who has access to data, etc.), technical standards (which ensure data security, integrity and validity) and data models (which describe data elements and how they are used)
• Consult managers in the organization to determine and document data requirements, data collection and administration policy, and data access rules
• Advise others in the organization about the collection of data and its suitability for various uses

Specific duties and responsibilities vary depending on the size and type of employer. In very large organizations, Data Administrators may have specialized responsibilities and work in teams. In other organizations, one Data Administrator may be responsible for all aspects of data administration.

What are the requirements to work as a Data Administrator in Alberta?

Data Administrators need a combination of related post-secondary education and experience. For example, they may have:

• A degree or diploma in computer science or a related discipline that has a significant information technology component, plus management-related education or related experience
• A degree or diploma in commerce or management plus computer-related education (for example, a database vendor certification program) or related experience.

The following Alberta institutions offer programs specifically related to Data Administration:

• The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton offers Database Administration programs through Continuing Education.
• The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) in Calgary offers a 24 week Database Administrator certificate program and an eight week optional practicum.

Certification Requirements

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, 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.

What kind of skills and experience do employers expect in a Data Administrator?

Data Administrator is not an entry level position. Employers generally prefer to hire applicants who have several years of related experience. Candidates for the Data Administrator role need a strong technical foundation in database structure, configuration, installation and practice. Employers seek individuals with knowledge and experience in major regional database languages and applications such as SQL, Oracle and DB2. Professional certifications from Microsoft, Oracle and others are also valuable.
Effective Data Administrators need the following characteristics:

• The ability to learn quickly, think logically and understand abstract relationships
• Excellent communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills
• Good stress management skills
• An interest in policy development and planning
• An interest in keeping up with ever-changing technology
• Strong attention to detail
• Strong customer service orientation

Over 2,050 Albertans are employed in the Database Analysts and Data Administrators occupational group which is expected to grow 2.1 to 3.1 per cent each year from 2006 to 2011 in Alberta. It is forecasted that 40 to 70 new positions will be created each year in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

What kinds of associations represent the Information Technology sector in Alberta?

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS)
Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) 
Calgary Technologies Inc.
Calgary Linux Users Group
Alberta Efuture Centre
TEC Edmonton
Business First
Deal Generator
Keiretsu Forum Calgary
Canadian Innovation Centre
IRAP
Canadian Commercial Corporation
NEWT
Wireless City
Banff Venture Forum
ICORE
NETERA