Database development or database management requires people who can build, maintain, analyze and develop solutions for databases, hardware and computer systems. With the rise of a tsunami of information and data during the past several decades, the government, colleges, universities and companies, both large and small, need people who can understand, develop, manipulate, organize and manage incredible amounts of data. Database developers work with a host of technical teams, software development engineers, business owners and other professionals to design, develop and implement database projects of all sizes that utilize a variety of hardware and software by applying business-appropriate and business-specific rules. Additionally, database developers continuously create and analyze data-driven solutions. Database developers also work with a variety of server environments, including Microsoft SQL.

Education
Most business, government, corporate and educational entities that are looking for database development professionals require them to have at minimum a four-year degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Science, Information Technology or an equivalent technical degree. Sometimes they will consider candidates based on whether they have equivalent experience in lieu of a degree. Additionally, companies require some experience in computer languages and computer systems, servers and database development. Many companies require proficiency with UNIX, Oracle, Linux and Microsoft SQL environments.

Skills and Abilities
People working in database development need to possess the skills and abilities necessary to deal with large, complex data sets. Depending on the company that is hiring database developers, you will need specific skills sets to work for each company. For example, one automotive company requires database development candidates to possess experience with automotive-related data. Additionally, companies require expert programming skills in computer languages and familiarity with non-relational databases.

Part of any job – and database development is no different – hinges on the employee being passionate about their work, able to work with a team, and possessing excellent verbal and written communication skills so that they can communicate with a variety of people, both within and outside the company. Employees should also possess problem-solving skills, the ability to work on ambiguous tasks, and good troubleshooting skills.

Because technology and software change quickly and often, another skill set to possess is the desire for continuous education. Database development requires the developer to become a truly lifelong learner, and to be constantly seeking out the newest technology, database or computer language. Companies usual provide opportunities for advancement based on an employee's skills, drive, and ability to learn new concepts quickly.

Is Database Development Right for Me?
For the past several decades, information and data have been cross-pollinating to create ever-more data and information that can sometimes overwhelm computer systems. Additionally, with the continuous development of computer languages, computer systems, software applications and emerging new technologies, someone needs to be at the crossroads to manage all this data.

Enter database development and database managers. People who love to manage and manipulate data and who are good problem solvers are excellent candidates for positions in database development and management. If you are self-directed with a strong interest in quality database development, willing to immerse yourself in continually learning new concepts and enjoy working in a team environment, this can be an excellent career choice for you. Plus, being able to understand and learn new computer languages quickly and frequently will propel you to the top of your class and eventually your company.