What is a Database Analyst: 5 Critical Responsibilities

In recent years, it has been found that there has been a significant increase in the amount of data that is generated by all types of companies. Daily, at least 2.5 Quintillion Bytes of Data are generated. This makes it difficult for organizations to handle such Big Data. However, this data can be used fruitfully to gain insights and make strategic decisions. For maintaining and analyzing such Big Data, Database Analysts come into the picture.

This article will give you detailed insights into the Database Analyst job profile. It will also help you to understand the key Roles and Responsibilities that must be possessed by a Database Analyst and what skills you need to have to succeed in the field of Database Analytics. Read along to know more about the Database Analyst job profile.

What is a Database Analyst?

Database Analysts are the professionals who examine, review and understand data using their Technical Skills. They are responsible for conducting surveys, planning, and updating existing data sets to meet the company’s demands. Furthermore, they continuously evaluate and gather data in accordance with the organization’s requirements. These skills can be applied to create efficient solutions for a variety of Databases.

Many companies such as Advertising, Telecommunications, Financial Services, Technology, and Healthcare invest in Big Data. This growth is expected to increase significantly as many other organizations are starting to invest in Big Data Analytics.

Database Analytics is essential because it is based on evidence and plays a vital role in Decision Making. These are important for acquiring information because it is a more logical way of dealing with data problems. 

Moreover, Statistics from the “Bureau of Labor” reveals that by 2024, there will be an 11% rise in Employment. This will result in the creation of around 13,400 new Analyst positions. Working as a Database Analyst allows you to obtain valuable experience that will prepare you for more challenging professions such as Data Science. It’s also a rewarding job that pays well.

Usually, Database Analysts use SQL (Structured Query Language) to get information from a company data set. Then, they use their Programming and Relational skills to understand the data and report their outcomes to the daily users of their product.

Essential Skills of a Database Analyst

• Technical Skills
• Core Skills
• Soft Skills

Companies are looking for Database Analysts who are adept at problem-solving, communicating, and have a technical bent. They should be able to work independently and have a positive team spirit. They should also be dependable, work under pressure, be enthusiastic about data, and be able to explain how data functions to the average person. A competent database analyst must also possess exceptional leadership and listening abilities.

However, Technical, Core, Advanced, and Soft Essential skills are highly sought after. Those critical skills are the ones most employers look for.

Technical Skills

You do not necessarily need to be a Pro in Mathematics, Statistics or have a Science background to be a good Database Analyst. Regardless, the following Technical Skills must be acquired:

• Business Knowledge: A good Database Analyst should have an apt and comprehensive understanding of how businesses work. You should have adequate knowledge concerning business-related issues. Business Knowledge will give you insight into the problem from a different angle and help you develop an effective solution. 
• Software Development Knowledge: Although this skill is more suitable for a Database Scientist, a Database Analyst must have some basic knowledge of Software Development. This expertise will aid you in understanding and analyzing large datasets. In this case, tools such as Tableau and Power BI are the best to use, but since not every company can afford it, you can use Python. It is easy to learn and use, especially for a newcomer in the Science World.
• SQL Knowledge: Knowing how to recover and integrate data will help you greatly. Knowing Structured Query Language (SQL) will give you unlimited access to data from several sources. 

Core Skills

According to a NorthEastern College Survey, most employers prefer a Database Analyst with the following skills: 

• Comprehensive Computing skills.
• Deep knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, SQL, and PHP.
• A Degree in Computer specific course or something related.
• Experience in Software Development.
• Experience in Data Modelling.
• Database queries experience.

Soft Skills

Soft Skills are of utmost importance for any professional. It is their responsibility to confidently explain their Data Analysis to the client or important sponsors engaged, as well as to propose possible solutions clearly and understandably.

• Presentation: They should be able to deliver data analysis and a realistic solution to the company’s shareholders appropriately. The presentation should be visually appealing and detailed.
• Communication: This is an underestimated skill that should be mastered by any professional. It provides in-depth knowledge to look at issues from the consumer’s perspective by actively listening and understanding the best method to express your analysis.

Earnings of a Database Analyst

Experienced Database Analysts with the required skills can earn more than an Entry-Level Database Analyst. According to research, as of April 2021, an Entry-Level Database Analyst makes around $57,000 per annum; experienced Database Analysts at Facebook can earn about $130,000 per annum. While the average Database Analyst earns approximately $72,945. 

You could earn easily depending on what companies you want to work for. Database Analysts are paid significantly more in Tech and Retail organizations. Comparatively, Database Analysts’ wages are highest in California, New Jersey, Hawaii, New York, and Washington.

Key Roles and Responsibilities of a Database Analyst

There are several standard Roles and Responsibilities for a Database Analyst in an organization. Still, these duties will vary from project to project. Here are some of the essential responsibilities of a Database Analyst: 

• Both Internal and External Data Feeds should be monitored by a qualified Database Analyst.
• They should gather vital documents and organize them for the Administrators in a way that is both Functional and Understandable.
• Present the information in Detailed and Graphical Representation and explain what kind of data should be created, updated, or deleted from the Database. 
• They should be able to deal with customer issues and provide data extraction methods for the company.
• They should be able to monitor the right kind of data needed by an organization.
• They should perform occasional analyses on all software of the organization.
• They should be able to generate reports from systems.
• They should document, structure, mine, and clean the Database.
• They should ensure the Database is functioning and that the security system denies access to unauthorized persons. 
• They should be proficient in statistical packages like Excel, SPSS, and SAS to analyze the dataset. 
• A good Database Analyst should use Visualization software like Tableau, Qlik and use Data Processing platforms like Hadoop and Apache Spark.

Becoming a Database Analyst would require a University Degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, Mathematics, or Information Management. However, a successful career as a Database Analyst can also be achieved without the Degree, but need to have the required skills.

Certifications are helpful but worthless unless they help you develop the core abilities required for the job. Employers just need to know that you can handle database analysis. The best way to prove this is by gaining experience. As long as you have that, you can get a job as a Database Analyst. 

Database analytics is a job that requires ongoing learning. So, if you don’t have the necessary skills or a Degree to become a Database Analyst, don’t panic; it’s never too late to start. Studies show that over two-thirds of Database Analysts have only been working in the field for just five years. 

To become a Data Analyst without prior knowledge or experience, the first thing to do is to:

• Understand Programming Basics: You do not need to become a full-fledged programmer like a Data Scientist, but understanding the programming flow will help you. 
• Start Small: Create smaller projects together to help strengthen your skills and motivate you.
• Learn Technical Skills: Almost every database analyst requires SQL knowledge, even though the job has diverse requirements. 
• Push yourself and Keep going: Don’t stop when you understand the basics of Database Analytics. Engage in projects that sharpen your skill and push you beyond your comfort zone. Occasionally venture into challenging tasks, then return to your old projects and improve on them.
• Build your Brand: Engage with people and let them know what you do to help you learn more and collaborate on analytics jobs. Share your past projects. You never know when they might get into the hands of the right person. 

Career Path for Data Analyst

Data Analytics is essential for every working sector. The demands are constantly growing and will continue to grow for the next couple of years. Every Professional must learn the basics of Data Analytics. 

• Sales: The need for Sales Analytics has increased in the sales sector. This is important for the increase in sales and customer satisfaction as it will be able to analyze changes in sales and the choices of the customers. 
• Investment and Finance: The demand for Database Analysts in financial institutions is rising. From Entry-Level to Experienced Level, they require all. And because you can constantly grow on the job as a Database Analyst, you will be considered for senior management over time.
• Market Research: Data Analytics is used to ensure the success of Marketing Campaigns. They are essential because they help you understand the market before launching a service or a product.

Database Analyst vs Data Analyst

The terms “data analyst” and “Database Analyst” are not interchangeable. Data analysts are frequently part of a variety of teams. They use their expertise in data manipulation and visualization to extract insights from specific subsets of data. Database analysts are the ones who assign subsets of data to data analysts to work with!

Database Analyst vs Database Administrator

While each firm views these responsibilities differently, the general rule is that database administrators are the most technically advanced, followed by database analysts. Analysts will only be concerned with software and analysis, whereas administrators may need to work directly with the hardware.

Conclusion

Data is used by businesses nowadays, and they rely on it to promote, make profits, and make strategic decisions. Data Analytics require Strategizing, Teamwork, and Technical skills. You also need to have genuine knowledge of Analytics and Statistics.

Becoming a Database Analyst means going into a competitive field. you must also push your limits and take risks. As long as you have Marketing and Technical skills to develop your skills and improve your shortcomings, you are on your way to becoming a successful Data Analyst.

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