SQL Developers
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SQL developers specialize in the design, implementation, and maintenance of structured query language (SQL) databases. They may work as database or web developers, depending on the specific position. SQL developers often spend many work hours seated in front of computers.
Aside from programming knowledge, SQL developer qualifications include strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of SQL servers, server integration services (SSIS), and server reporting services (SSRS) are also important. In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median annual salary for SQL developers of $93,750. However, salaries can vary according to experience and location. Let's look at the work a SQL developer does and how they do it. The skills of an SQL developer are likely to remain in high demand as the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects annual job growth of 10% from 2019 through 2029.
What is a SQL Developer
Many applications, web pages, and enterprise software packages use data stored in databases. Many of those databases use structured query language (SQL) to organize, clean and retrieve data. The language comes in several varieties, including MySQL, SQL Server, Postgre SQL, Oracle, and SQLite. Planning, coding, troubleshooting, and requirements gathering are all part of the typical developer's job.
Responsibilities of a SQL Developer
In short, SQL developers are responsible for planning, running, and improving enterprise-level databases that power many large organizations. Many developers are also responsible for writing database documentation or for gathering user requirements.
Duties of a SQL Developer
Most of the developer's work will revolve around creating and managing databases for companies, government agencies, and educational institutions. This list covers common duties that an SQL developer performs on the job.
- Create SQL Queries - All database developers spend a good deal of time writing and refining code that extracts information from a database.
- Develop Databases - All databases have a structure and logic behind how data is stored and retrieved. A SQL developer knows how to apply the rules of various SQL flavors to a database project.
- Troubleshoot Databases - Database developers often find errors while creating a database, or after the database is deployed.
- Perform Server Maintenance - The server and the database it runs may need regular attention. A SQL developer would be tasked with managing the logs and server records for an organization's databases.
- Gather User Requirements - Identify features that the database owners want and estimate the level of effort to implement those requirements.
- Improve Systems - A database developer has to look for ways to improve database efficiency. Database code needs to be updated and tested, which are jobs that would fall to a SQL developer.
A SQL developer may work alone for the most part, but may also work as part of a larger software development team.
How to Become a SQL Developer
Becoming a SQL developer involves a combination of formal training, usually in a college or university, and practical experience. Certifications tend to increase a developer's employability and salary. Read on to learn more about the steps involved in becoming a SQL developer. Most developer jobs, including MS SQL developer jobs, will require the following steps.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree
This is how you become a database developer. For almost all jobs in the field, SQL developer requirements include training in programming and database management. Prospective SQL developers can earn a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer information systems (CIS), or a related major. Students in these types of programs typically learn about computer networking and programming and acquire database management skills. Required coursework also includes topics in algebra, calculus, and computer algorithms.
Success Tip:
Participate in an internship. If you want to know how to be a good SQL developer, you need practical experience while in school. Some computer science and CIS degree programs offer students the opportunity to intern in the information (IT) industry. By doing so, they may fulfill some of the experience requirements for SQL development positions.
Step 2: Get Work Experience
Hands-on experience working with database systems is an important part of launching a successful career as an SQL developer. For higher-paid jobs, SQL developer job requirements will call for several years of experience and possibly a certification. Recent graduates may find entry-level positions as programmers or developers.
Step 3: Consider Certification
In some cases, employers may require that SQL developers have application-specific certifications.
A search on the relevant variety of SQL will show how to become SQL certified. Some relevant certifications include the Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) and Oracle PL/SQL Developer Certified Associate, which usually require a passing score on an exam.
Remember, before you can apply for a job as an SQL developer, you'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer information systems (CIS), or a closely related major. As of January 2021, a Glassdoor.com survey found that SQL developers earned a median annual salary of $81,622. Most developers work in offices, but many programmers can do SQL jobs from home.
