How To Become A Database Manager: What It Is and Career Path

What is a database manager and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

If you happen to have extensive knowledge of database architecture or possess experience in a related role, you can become a database manager. The simple explanation is that a database manager develops and maintains the databases of an organization. In other words, they're in charge of everything that has to do with data storage and data retrieval systems.

As a person functioning in the role, you have to troubleshoot database issues while also executing the database procedures. Being a manager, you'll also supervise the database team.

It, however, takes a lot to become a database manager. A Bachelor's degree in management information systems (MIS), computer science, information systems, or information technology is only the starting point. Employers will require no less than two years' experience in database management.

Besides, employers will expect you to have advanced analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Not just this, but advanced proficiency in structured query language (SQL) is also a critical must-have. The lowest-paid database executives get $48,480 while the top ten percent get up to $132,420.

ScoreDatabase ManagerUS Average

Salary

7.6

Avg. Salary $99,621

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

4.4

Growth Rate 9%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

3.0

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.54%

Asian 17.73%

Black or African American 8.03%

Hispanic or Latino 9.21%

Unknown 5.20%

White 59.28%

Gender

female 43.74%

male 56.26%

Age - 46

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 46

Stress Level

4.4

Stress level is moderate

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

9.2

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

8.1

Work Life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a database manager

Explore database manager education requirements

Most common database manager degrees

Bachelor's

67.8 %

Master's

12.5 %

Associate

12.4 %

Start to develop specific database manager skills

Skills	Percentages
Data Management	12.07%
Data Entry	6.66%
SQL Server	5.30%
Project Management	3.95%
Data Integrity	3.54%

Complete relevant database manager training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New database managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a database manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real database manager resumes.

Research database manager duties and responsibilities

Manage and observe a windows base relational database which are used to manage court case files and plaintiff and defendant information.
Manage user profiles, communication lines and devices connect to the IBM AS400.
Lead interactive discussions with DBA teams to identify a base of proactive monitoring standard metrics.
Manage the process of gathering GIS data, analyzing spatial data, representing results as Geo.

Prepare your database manager resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your database manager resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a database manager resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable Database Manager Resume templates

Build a professional Database Manager resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Database Manager resume.

Apply for database manager jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a database manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How do database managers rate their job?