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The differences between database programmers and senior programmer analysts can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a database programmer, becoming a senior programmer analyst takes usually requires 4-6 years. Additionally, a senior programmer analyst has an average salary of $95,174, which is higher than the $78,390 average annual salary of a database programmer.
The top three skills for a database programmer include PL/SQL, access database and microsoft sql server. The most important skills for a senior programmer analyst are java, C++, and sql server.
| Database Programmer | Senior Programmer Analyst | |
| Yearly salary | $78,390 | $95,174 |
| Hourly rate | $37.69 | $45.76 |
| Growth rate | 9% | 9% |
| Number of jobs | 18,188 | 164,022 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 69% | Bachelor's Degree, 68% |
| Average age | 46 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 6 |
A database programmer specializes in developing and maintaining database programs, modifying them according to their clients' needs. They design and write codes for different programs, establish and implement test systems, troubleshoot problems, solve concerns or issues, and upgrade systems as necessary. They may also establish data security plans and implement protocols to protect company and client data. Moreover, a database programmer maintains an active communication line with co-workers, working together to ensure a smooth workflow and provide optimal services to clients.
A senior programmer/analyst is responsible for developing and sustaining databases and software applications to achieve business requirements. The professional performs development duties such as coding and testing these applications. The core skills that the job requires include familiarity with applicable data privacy practices and laws, a keen eye for details, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Also, the job requires a college diploma or university degree in the field of computer science, information systems, or software engineering.
Database programmers and senior programmer analysts have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Database Programmer | Senior Programmer Analyst | |
| Average salary | $78,390 | $95,174 |
| Salary range | Between $56,000 And $107,000 | Between $73,000 And $122,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Massachusetts | California |
| Best paying company | Edwards Lifesciences | AEA Investors |
| Best paying industry | Pharmaceutical | Retail |
There are a few differences between a database programmer and a senior programmer analyst in terms of educational background:
| Database Programmer | Senior Programmer Analyst | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 69% | Bachelor's Degree, 68% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between database programmers' and senior programmer analysts' demographics:
| Database Programmer | Senior Programmer Analyst | |
| Average age | 46 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 73.6% Female, 26.4% | Male, 75.5% Female, 24.5% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 7.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 9.7% Asian, 21.0% White, 55.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% | Black or African American, 10.4% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 11.6% Asian, 14.8% White, 57.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 6% | 8% |