SQL Developer is responsible for the development and management of application database structures, both from a database architecture perspective (tables, views, procedures, triggers) and in terms of security (access management, protection).
SQL Developers most commonly work with these database platforms: SQL Server, MySQL, and Oracle. They are often mistakenly referred to as Database Administrators, but this position requires a different skillset, although there is some overlap.
SQL Developer – Job Description
- Designing database tables and structures on a specific database platform (SQL Server, Oracle, etc.)
- Creating views, functions, stored procedures, triggers
- Creating complex and highly optimized SQL queries
- Resolving performance issues of databases/applications/scripts/servers
- Maintaining data quality and Master Data Management
- Maintaining system documentation
- Database platform administration (DBA)
- Often involved in business intelligence – e.g., report development, OLAP, ETL
Career Opportunities for SQL Developers – Most Common Employers
- Banks and insurance companies
- IT companies
- Telecommunication companies
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Public sector
- Universities and colleges
These are mostly medium and large companies where there is a much greater need to conceptually address data and reporting than in small firms.
Key Skills for SQL Developer
- Programming languages – SQL, knowledge of object-oriented language is an advantage (Python is becoming increasingly popular)
- Ability to work with XML, JSON, HTML, CSS
- Having MCSA SQL certification or MCSA Power BI certification is a plus
- Ability to work in an agile environment (JIRA, Confluence, etc.)
- Version control system knowledge (git, TFS, etc.)
- Accuracy, attention to detail, thoroughness
- Flexibility, stress resistance, assertiveness
- Teamwork