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What does a Database Engineer do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A database engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining databases. They work with database administrators to ensure that the databases are efficient and effective.

Database Engineer job duties include:

  • Designing and setting up databases
  • Planning the data storage requirements for new applications
  • Maintaining and improving existing databases
  • Writing and tuning SQL queries for optimum performance
  • Ensuring database security
  • Monitoring database performance and capacity
  • Planning for disaster recovery
  • Implementing database changes according to application requirements
  • Working with application developers to understand their data needs

Database Engineer Job Requirements

A database engineer is responsible for developing, testing and maintaining databases. They may also be involved in the design of new databases. In order to become a database engineer, you will need to have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. You may also need to obtain certification from a professional organization such as the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals. Experience working with databases is also essential for this position.

Database Engineer Skills

  • SQL
  • Database design
  • Database administration
  • Data modeling
  • ETL (extract, transform, load) processes
  • Data warehousing
  • Performance tuning
  • Backup and recovery
  • Security
  • Capacity planning
  • High availability

Related: Top Database Engineer Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Database Engineer

A database engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and repair of databases. They work with software developers to ensure that data is correctly stored and accessed. They also work with system administrators to ensure that the database system is properly configured and secured.

To become a database engineer, you will need to have a strong understanding of database systems and their inner workings. You should be able to write complex SQL queries and understand how to optimize them for performance. You will also need to be familiar with different database technologies, such as MySQL, Oracle, and Microsoft SQL Server.

The best way to learn all of this is to get a degree in computer science or a related field. Alternatively, you can start working as a junior database administrator or developer and learn on the job. Whichever route you choose, make sure to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in database technology.

Related: Database Engineer Resume Example

Related: Database Engineer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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