Building a large database is one of the prerequisites for companies and organizations to adapt to digital transformation.
In this process, database developers are the most important people in laying the groundwork for change. This job is in increasing demand and compensation.
So how to become a SQL developer?You can take the following routes to enter this sector:
- Get a bachelor's degree.
- Find an internship.
- Improve knowledge of the database.
- Get real life experience.
- Get certified.
- Improve soft skills.
Along with the script, keep reading the article below. We also delve into the concept, job description, and requirements.
What is a SQL developer?
An SQL developer (known as a database developer or SQL programmer) is an information technology specialist.
Its main functions are to design, create and maintain websites or information systems using the SQL structured query language.
This language is quite popular in data systems thanks to its function of cleaning, retrieving and organizing the information it stores. You can find them on websites, organizational packs, or apps.
Database developers must also be familiar with various structural query languages such as PostgreSQL, Oracle, SQL Server, SQLite, and MySQL.
These professionals have meticulous attention to detail and strong logical thinking. As a result, they will easily solve difficult information problems at work.
They also need programming experience. Sometimes these experts even need to teach their colleagues SQL coding.
What do database developers do?
Database developers build, develop, and manage SQL-based enterprise data systems.
His working time in a week is 40 hours, and his working hours are the same as office hours. This job can work in the office and allows you to work from home.
Some of the key tasks these professionals must perform on a daily basis include:
Analysis
The first responsibility of SQL programmers is to write SELECT queries of varying degrees of complexity.
Most of the commands you enter will be extremely simple. However, some unexpected situations still arise and you have to deal with them.
Sometimes experts will have to race against time and try to write a workable SELECT query. After each job, you will accumulate more practical experience.
These queries are extremely important because their results influence the business decisions of the organization.
Timeline
Depending on the location and size of the company you work for, you probably spend some time programming stored functions, procedures, and triggers.
The reason is that this information is stored in the form of a database. At runtime, you must also use a combination of SQL statements such as INSERT, SELECT, DELETE, and UPDATE.
database design
In addition, database specialists occasionally modify and update the organization's information systems.
This action can include creating relationships and inserting or deleting tables.
How to become a SQL developer
After learning about the roles and daily work of a SQL developer, it's time to learn the roadmap for this career.
1. Get a bachelor's degree
Information technology-related careers generally give preference to applicants with a bachelor's degree. SQL development is no exception.
You must earn a degree related to information systems or computer science.
These training programs will provide you with computer programming and networking skills.
In addition, they also support you with the fundamentals of database administration. It is one of the main hiring criteria.
Some classes you should focus on as much as possible include:
- Calculus and Algebra.
- Algorithm design.
- Computer algorithms.
- Computer organization.
- Abstract data types.
2. Look for an internship
Once you have the basics, you need to apply them to solve real-world problems. These experiences will help your resume stand out in the job market.
You may be able to find internship opportunities through your university, as some courses offer these options.
Also, try to research the organizations you want to work for to understand their hiring requirements. You are more likely to be hired when you develop the right skills for the organization.
You can also familiarize yourself with the business interview process for this position in the video below.
3. Improve knowledge of the database
Since you will spend most of your time working with databases, it is useful to have additional knowledge in this area.
You don't have to go to college, but you can save time by enrolling in online courses or short-term training. Some notable themes include:
- Software development life cycle, take care of the Scrum and Agile methodology.
- SAP Crystal Reports y Server Reporting Services (SSRS).
- Cloud storage services such as Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure.
- Business reporting utility tools like Microsoft SQL.
- NoSQL information systems such as MongoDB and CouchDB.
4. Get real life experience
With technology-related careers, you need to accumulate as much hands-on experience as possible.
Start with a simple personal project based on a topic that interests you, like movies or music. Then create, query, and design the information associated with them.
If possible, find friends and family to help you with small projects. With this, you will have more knowledge to embellish your portfolio and impress the business.
Having professional experience will help you enjoy higher benefits and salaries. You also need to improve your knowledge of Java, C, or C# to communicate with other departments.
To get a leg up on your competition, try learning about Bash, Unix, Windows batch scripting, or the .NET framework.
5. Get certified
While you don't need to have certifications to apply for the SQL developer job, they will be a great asset to you.
Some organizations also ask their employees to learn more about specific applications in the process. Some popular certifications include:
- Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD)
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer data analysis and management.
- Certified Associate for Oracle PL/SQL Developers.
You will need to pass the training center exams to receive the certificate.
A helpful tip is to focus on going deeper into a specific area. Having only a basic understanding of many information environments will limit your opportunities.
6. Improve soft skills
In addition to professional knowledge, SQL programmers also need to equip interpersonal skills to work more efficiently.
Collaboration
You will not work alone. There will be many departments working together to establish digital transformation within an organization.
Various departments will need information from each other to complete the information system. People will be able to ask for your help or ask related questions.
One of the tips to improve this soft skill is to define a development roadmap and objectives for the project. Then adjust your actions as you go.
Do not delay the allotted deadline. Otherwise, it will be difficult for people to cooperate with you.
During the work process, do not forget to actively exchange and listen to the opinions of other departments in order to find suitable solutions and avoid misunderstandings.
Communication
The ability to communicate is an important key to smooth your workflow.
Database developers often need to work with colleagues such as third-party or network engineers and vendors.
A helpful tip to make your communication more effective is to listen and maintain comfortable body language when speaking. This will show that you are paying attention to what the other person is saying.
In addition, you should also learn how to write notes and reports in an easy to understand and concise manner.
Skills Needed to Become a SQL Developer
To be successful in this field, you will need to focus on acquiring the following skills:
database
Information systems can be used as a layer of layered architecture. Its effect is to develop services by separating interfaces and business logic.
Thus, it makes the information processing process much simpler and cleaner.
Many professionals use this information to design physical and logical relational database models.
sql
As a SQL programmer, you definitely need to know this language. It allows you to access and control information systems.
Using table variables and temporary tables, experts can create complex queries. As a result, they can design and deliver dynamic reporting solutions using hosted services.
T-SQL
Another name for this platform is Transact-SQL. Extends the SQL query language with more utilities and executable statements.
Using complex commands, experts can filter information from legacy systems.
SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS)
Microsoft created Microsoft SSIS as an ETL tool. Thanks to this tool you can integrate, store information in a single source and perform cleaning.
These applications allow professionals to implement and develop business solutions for various departments in the organization.
Analysis
Professionals must have excellent analytical skills to listen and analyze client needs. As a result, they can design the software according to their needs.
frequent questions
If you have any questions about SQL development, find the answers below.
What is the salary of a SQL developer?
In accordance withour report, a SQL developer in the United States earns an average salary of up to $87,148 per year. They also receive a cash bonus of around $5,000.
Entry or junior level positions can expect a salary of $64,748 per year. They also receive a general benefits package that includes life insurance, health savings and travel expenses.
Several factors can indirectly affect wages, such as work experience, job title, or employer.
How long does it take to become a database developer?
It will only take you two to three weeks to understand the basics and start working with SQL databases.
However, it is only a theory. In fact, such work will require experts to be fluent and effective in using data in all situations.
It takes a programmer several years to reach this level. So he be patient and keep learning.
What skills are needed to become a SQL developer?
If you're considering becoming a database developer, start researching the duties and responsibilities that come with it.
This position requires professionals to create, design, and maintain a database system. Specific tasks include:
- Creation of tables and database systems for the organization.
- Design of storage, display and associated functions.
- Integrate data with other applications by writing optimized SQL queries.
- Create a data system trigger to apply to the automation.
- Monitor system security and maintain database quality.
Is SQL Developer a good career?
Yes, SQL programmer is definitely one of the most in-demand development jobs today.
Data is the key to business success. With the development of technology, this volume of information will increase more and more.
This will cause the search demand for SQL developers to increase dramatically. Not just the information technology industry, but all other fields, such as healthcare or finance, need information management personnel.
With that, the incentives and challenges for professionals become stronger than ever. This work will always grow in the future for sure.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this industry are expected to grow 8% between 2020 and 2030. This rate is more than double the average growth rate for all industries.
Is SQL development easy?
SQL is one of the easiest programming languages to learn today. Concepts, queries, and data formats are easy to remember and clearly named.
It is very unlikely that the functions will be confused. In addition, you can choose from different RDBMS tables and tools to solve organization problems.
The language query syntax is also derived from common English words, making it easy to learn.
You can even speed up the learning process if you already have programming experience.
Conclusion
Becoming a database developer is not difficult. The key here is to keep learning and improving your people skills.
Technology will always develop, which will lead to the advancement of the database system. Regular updating of new knowledge is always the first choice of employers.
Good luck with your SQL development career!