database analyst

National Occupational Classification Code is 2172.1

OCCUPATION INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW:

What are the main duties of a Database Analyst in Alberta?

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, or patient record systems. Typical duties include:

• 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
• Analyze complex data systems and documenting data elements, data flow, relationships and dependencies
• Developing automated and reusable routines for extracting requested information from database systems
• Compile detailed reports using data reporting tools, such as Crystal Reports and making recommendations based on their findings
• Working in partnership with business analysts, data architects and database developers to build data transactional and warehousing systems
• Construct, install and test database management systems
• Modify existing databases as user needs and technological capabilities change
• Customize commercial databases to meet specific needs.

What are the requirements to work as a Database Analyst in Alberta?

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, the following post-secondary education institutions offer programs directly related to computer programming:
• Academy of Learning 
• Athabasca University
• Bow Valley College
• CDI College of Business and Technology
• Concordia University College of Alberta
• DeVry Institute of Technology 
• Grande Prairie Regional College
• Grant MacEwan College 
• Keyano College
• The King's University College
• Lakeland College 
• Lethbridge College
• Medicine Hat College
• Mount Royal College in Calgary
• Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)
• Red Deer College
• Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
• University of Alberta
• University of Calgary
• University of Lethbridge

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 Database Analyst?

Strong analytical, quantitative and problem-solving abilities are required for this position, along with a thorough knowledge of relational database theory and practice. Employers look for a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems or a related field, plus experience working with major database platforms such as SQL Server, Oracle or DB2. In addition, excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively with data systems teams are required.
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