SQL programmers are needed to develop applications for various industries like financial, telecom, healthcare, and manufacturing. In all these industries, data needs to be extracted and saved and hence SQL database developers are needed. The SQL programmers or developers are also called database programmers. These individuals require an environment based on development, which would offer them easier management techniques along with creation and testing of the programmable tools.
Job Profile/description/responsibilities
Database administrators focus on impeccable development of computer applications, a task that needs careful handling. The security of the stored data is crucial, for which codes have to be devised. The overall dependency on computer data storage has resulted in a demand for SQL developers. SQL programmers develop high quality SQL codes for various applications. SQL developers also have to ensure easier navigation for multiple platforms within a solitary application. Many companies require automated debugging process systems that have code capabilities like step in, step out and step over. Code sharing capabilities are also essential for a true team programming environment. Larger companies also test and modify the SQL statements, while making sure that they do not affect their production server. The SQL developers have to work for long hours to meet stringent deadlines. The SQL programmers and developers are required to look for methods that would help them fix bugs faster. The aim of their job is to improvise on the quality of applications.
Requirements
Educational qualifications for a career in SQL Programming
Generally an associate's degree in Computer Science is preferred by companies, although there are companies that hire programmers with a bachelor's degree in Information Technology. SQL programming applicants should have Microsoft SQL certification, because this is a credential preferred by a lot of companies.
Training in the SQL development and relational design database is advantageous. The SQL database programmers need to have thorough knowledge about SQL DDL, SQL DML, database management and relational design process.
For a career in SQL programming, planning and hard work are required. Unlike management jobs, where easy switches are possible, an SQL programmer has to be well versed with the job perquisites.
Skills of a SQL programmer
As an SQL programmer, one should be skilled in SQL 2000 and 2005. Technical knowledge coupled with interpersonal communication skills ensures smoother interaction with staff members.
SQL Programmers should also be able to multi-task effectively as this is a major time saving tool. Management skills help in organizing and allocating tasks faster.
Having a good memory is vital for SQL programmers because your career includes remembering minute details, as forgetting would mean goofing up the entire project. However, those who are keen on a career in SQL programming can improvise their memory with brain teasers or reading techniques that help perk it up.
Training and Prior Experience
Training can be obtained from gaining specific product certifications from private companies. SQL programming applicants with two to five years' experience in other programs are preferred. For example, knowledge in systems like Java and .NET can be of great use to SQL programmers, for scaling professionally.
Employment Outlook
Career Prospects and Salary for an SQL programmer or developer
To check if you are capable of making a career in programming you should try and prepare a list of your technical skills for review and study. With the onset of software technology in the past few years, database administrator salaries have witnessed a tremendous rise. Your starting salary can be around $30,000 to $40,000. However, with more experience and additional technical qualifications the salary figures can go up to $70,000-$100,000. This has emerged as one of the fastest growing jobs, and market trends reveal a 37% employment rise in the coming 5-7 years. The average hourly wage for a SQL programmer is about $35.05 and the figures are expected to grow rapidly. The average number of hours required for working for an SQL programmer is around 40 hours with evening shifts or even weekend schedules for meeting deadlines.
You should try and get information about the company where you are applying for interview and find out about the tools that they are going to use. After analyzing the qualifications sought by the company, consider if you are qualified to meet their requirements. All companies don't ask for SQL programmers and may require additional diplomas. A lot depends on your ability to tackle problems and deal with organizational problems. Hence, becoming a successful programmer would require you to be talented in SQL programming, along with having good management skills.
