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Database administrator/software engineer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

6 min read

Quoted experts

Greg Kessler Ph.D.,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical database administrator/software engineer skills. We ranked the top skills for database administrator/software engineers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 8.3% of database administrator/software engineer resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a database administrator/software engineer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 database administrator/software engineer skills for your resume and career

1. Java

Java is a widely-known programming language that was invented in 1995 and is owned by Oracle. It is a server-side language that was created to let app developers "write once, run anywhere". It is easy and simple to learn and use and is powerful, fast, and secure. This object-oriented programming language lets the code be reused that automatically lowers the development cost. Java is specially used for android apps, web and application servers, games, database connections, etc. This programming language is closely related to C++ making it easier for the users to switch between the two.

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use java:

Attended technical seminars that included DB2, COBOL, IMS, VSAM, JAVA and other latest tools and technology.
Designed and coded a front end DB application in Java to enter information for product release.

2. PL/SQL

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use pl/sql:

Used Materialized View and customized PL/SQL procedures for data transformation between two different systems.
Performed Oracle Application Server administration and PL/SQL cartridge/web development.

3. Web Application

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use web application:

Administered database for web applications.
Supported web application development team.

4. Microsoft SQL Server

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use microsoft sql server:

Administered Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle databases.
Developed SQL queries and stored procedures for Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle using Star and Snowflake schemas.

5. Database Administration

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use database administration:

Provided database administration and development services in a high demand environment.
Facilitated Database Administration, and support for databases and systems.

6. DBA

DBA is a shortening of the word Database Administrator or Database Administration, depending on its use. Database Administration is the process and skill of maintaining and upgrading databases and the information found inside. Databases are organized collections of information, the nature of which differs from one business, organization, or individual to another. Database management systems or DBMS software is the main way of administering and maintaining databases, as the name implies, and it is an important asset in scientific research, academia, and large and even small businesses.

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use dba:

Job evolved to software development primarily in database applications and other DBA activities
Sourced talent for other technical positions which included: DBA, Software Engineers, ERP developers, Pre-Sales and Account Executives.

7. Recovery Procedures

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use recovery procedures:

Execute database backup and recovery procedures to ensure that database data can be restored.
Performed Database backup and recovery procedures to ensure the integrity of the data.

8. Linux

Linux is a Unix-like operating system. Just like Windows, Mac OS, and IOS, Linux is an operating system used by millions across the globe. Android itself is powered by the Linux operating system. Linux manages all the hardware resources that are associated with your computer. The software is famous because of the protection it grants from viruses, malware, and crashes. The Linux operating system is entirely free and is an open-source software meaning it can be altered by those equipped with the knowledge to code.

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use linux:

Contributed to development of C++ (Linux) projects, including notification server, file server, and IoServer.
Installed Oracle 8i and 9i database on all QA and development HP-UX machine, Windows and Linux machines.

9. Database Servers

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use database servers:

Identify and diagnose existing problems with database server software, and take the appropriate corrective action.
Monitored and fine-tuned the production database servers on a daily basis.

10. Software Development

Software development is the mechanism by which programmers create computer programs. The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a framework for developing applications that follow technological needs and consumer requirements. It consists of many stages. The SDLC establishes an international standard that software developers can use to enhance and create their programs. It provides a well-defined framework for software developers to pursue in the production, maintenance, and design of premium quality software. The aim of the software development process is to create high-quality software on time and within budget.

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use software development:

Worked closely on a software development team creating an all new medical staffing application.
Create Unit Testing and User Acceptance Testing during software development.

11. JavaScript

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use javascript:

Created Electronic Job Applications, HR Calendars and Employees Skills Application using ColdFusion, SQL, Oracle and JavaScript.
Job Duties: Web design in HTML, JavaScript.

12. Configuration Management

Configuration management is a technical system of management controls that includes decisions, actions, and approvals that are applied throughout the life cycle of a program or system and that maintain the consistency of its performance, functional and physical attributes from the conceptual phase to production and finally to post-production support.

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use configuration management:

Created application for Asset configuration management.
Provided leadership in the development, design, and documentation of STAR's Software Software Configuration Management Process.

13. Database Design

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use database design:

Gained in-depth understanding of relational and dimensional data modeling and database design skills.
Worked with application developers on efficient database design.

14. C

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use c:

Code in C compile using command line batch files and debug in Visual Studio
Developed and tested GUI screens written in C on an OS/2 platform.

15. C++

C++ is a general-purpose programming language that is used to create high-performing applications. It was invented as an extension to the C language. C++ lets the programmer have a high level of domination over memory and system resources. C++ is an object-oriented language that helps you implement real-time issues based on different data functions

Here's how database administrator/software engineers use c++:

Developed many individual component application objects including generating system data and the data retrieval software using C++ and XML.
Developed, refined, and documented automated C++ unit and thread verification tests for embedded medical device customer.

What skills help Database Administrator/Software Engineers find jobs?

Tell us what job you are looking for, we’ll show you what skills employers want.

What skills stand out on database administrator/software engineer resumes?

Greg Kessler Ph.D.

Professor, Ohio University

I am not sure that there are any particular skills that stand out on resumes, but familiarity with instructional design principles should be considered to be very valuable. I also think that knowledge of multimedia principles, social media, and various forms of virtual and immersive experiences. Also, knowledge of AI and the other things I referred to in the trends above.

What soft skills should all database administrator/software engineers possess?

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Associate Professor of CIS, J. Bradley Oxley Professor of Computer Information Systems, University of Tulsa

All the soft skills are important, but a few are absolutely critical in today's hybrid workforce. With the uncertainty of COVID delaying the return to the office, many companies are embracing hybrid work and/or 100% remote for some or all of their employees. Today's employees must be able to effectively communicate over a range of different modalities, both synchronously and asynchronously, while still being able to actively build and maintain relationships as they participate in one or more teams of coworkers, customers, and other stakeholders. Today's IT workers need to be honest with themselves on the work environments they can and cannot succeed within.

What hard/technical skills are most important for database administrator/software engineers?

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Associate Professor of CIS, J. Bradley Oxley Professor of Computer Information Systems, University of Tulsa

Students graduating with Information Systems and related degrees usually have little problem finding employment upon graduation. However, the pandemic upended that paradigm for some. For those who recently graduated and are still looking for employment, keep the faith and develop your technical skills. Developers should show prospective employers that they are familiar with agile programming methodologies and modern DevOps stacks and processes. Data analysts should be focused on presenting their ability to work with structured and unstructured data, effectively query data using SQL & NoSQL, and, most importantly, provide actionable insight by making data accessible and relatable to decision-makers at all levels of an organization. Those interested in cloud architecture and cyber security careers have to keep current on their skills and certifications. Cloud engineers need to stay aware of the constant changes happening at the major providers (AWS, Azure, GCP) and, as with all other IT fields, provide tangible evidence of your skills via real projects that you have worked on. Prospective cyber security analysts should first focus on identifying their first specialization because there are too many security roles to learn them all at once, especially as beginners. Two popular entry-level cyber security jobs include information security consultant and Security Operations Center (SOC). Both of these roles require a sound foundation in networking fundamentals, vulnerability identification and mitigation, and an understanding of organizationally relevant security and privacy frameworks and regulations.

What database administrator/software engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Dr. Tao Ju

Vice Dean for Research & Professor, Washington University in St. Louis

Graduates should research their targeted industries, companies and positions to identify which skills are in highest demand. Every job description has required qualifications and a desired qualifications section. The focus should be on trying to develop those desired qualifications. This could include learning a new programming language or working towards a certification (EIT, LEED, Six Sigma, etc.). Having said that, the specific skills themselves are less important than demonstrating the drive, passion and curiosity to continue developing. Do something. Take a course, volunteer, take on a short-term project, or teach yourself new software. The more graduates have developed their technical and transferable skills (leadership, communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem solving, etc.), the more competitive they will be as they enter the job market, and the quicker they will make a difference in an organization.

What type of skills will young database administrator/software engineers need?

Dr. Ted Junseok Song

Associate Professor of Engineering, John Brown University

As it always has been, the ability to communicate with others would be a critical skill for college graduates. Additionally, it will be more necessary for professionals to work cross-culturally, as the U.S. is becoming more diverse.

What technical skills for a database administrator/software engineer stand out to employers?

Bob Sweeney Ph.D.

Associate Professor, University of South Alabama

Strong database skills including big data and SQL are always valued by local employers hiring our IS majors. While not technical, written and verbal communications skills are always important.

Do you want to know more?

List of database administrator/software engineer skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a database administrator/software engineer resume and required skills for a database administrator/software engineer to have include:

Java
PL/SQL
Web Application
Microsoft SQL Server
Database Administration
DBA
Recovery Procedures
Linux
Database Servers
Software Development
JavaScript
Configuration Management
Database Design
C
C++

Unix
Application Development
XML
Management System
ETL
HTML
ASP
Provisioning
Ssis
RDBMS
PHP
Data Warehouse
DB2
Database Management
OS

Perl
CSS
Production Environment
Troubleshoot
DB
API
QA
Solaris
C Net
VB
GUI
Database Development
T-SQL
Tomcat

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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