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Database Administrators

SOC 15-1242.00Job Zone 4 · Considerable Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers database administration practice across enterprise, cloud, and hybrid environments — from entry-level system support and routine maintenance through advanced strategic leadership of data infrastructure, governance, and organizational capability development.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Database management system software — install and configure under direct supervision in a structured enterprise environment.
  2. Existing database schemas — identify and document modifications needed, referring complex changes to senior staff.
  3. User access levels and permissions — apply predefined specifications to database segments under guided review.
  4. Database backup and archival software — execute scheduled backup routines following established protocols on production systems.
  5. SQL query tools and database user interfaces — write and run basic queries to retrieve and verify data under close oversight.
  6. Test scripts for database changes — execute predefined test cases and log results for review by senior administrators.
  7. Security policies and access control procedures — follow documented protocols to protect database files from unauthorized access.
  8. Technical documentation and O*NET task guides — read and interpret to support routine database administration duties.
  9. End-user questions about database access — respond to basic inquiries and escalate complex issues to experienced staff.
  10. Cloud-based database management consoles — navigate and perform routine monitoring tasks under supervisor direction.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Existing databases and DBMS configurations — modify with reduced oversight to improve performance or accommodate changing business requirements.
  2. Database security measures — plan and implement access controls and encryption settings to safeguard information against unauthorized disclosure.
  3. DBMS software upgrades — coordinate installation and testing in staging environments to validate performance improvements before production deployment.
  4. User accounts and access-level specifications — define and assign permissions for each database segment based on organizational role requirements.
  5. Database application changes — design and execute test plans, correct identified errors, and apply necessary modifications in a team environment.
  6. Storage networking software and backup systems — configure and maintain data recovery procedures to meet defined recovery time objectives.
  7. Junior staff and end users — answer technical questions and deliver structured training sessions on database tools and query interfaces.
  8. ERP and enterprise data platforms — administer routine operations and troubleshoot integration issues with adjacent business systems.
  9. Database performance metrics — monitor using platform dashboards and generate reports identifying trends and potential bottlenecks.
  10. Object-oriented and web platform development tools — collaborate with programmers to review code changes affecting database interactions.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex database architectures — redesign and optimize autonomously to meet evolving enterprise performance, scalability, and availability requirements.
  2. Multi-layered security frameworks — design and implement comprehensive strategies safeguarding data against accidental damage, modification, and unauthorized disclosure.
  3. DBMS upgrade projects — independently plan, schedule, and execute version migrations with full rollback contingencies across production environments.
  4. Non-routine database errors and performance failures — diagnose root causes using systems analysis and apply targeted corrections under minimal oversight.
  5. Cross-functional database change initiatives — lead testing cycles, validate outcomes against business requirements, and authorize promotion to production.
  6. User access governance models — develop and enforce permission hierarchies and audit trails aligned with compliance and regulatory standards.
  7. Technical training programs — design curriculum and deliver instruction to users and junior administrators on advanced database tools and best practices.
  8. Cloud-based and hybrid database environments — architect and manage data infrastructure integrating on-premise and cloud platforms for enterprise clients.
  9. Systems evaluation activities — assess database management systems against operational requirements and recommend strategic tooling changes.
  10. Technical support frameworks — provide authoritative guidance to junior staff and clients resolving complex, multi-system database integration challenges.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Enterprise database strategy — define long-range architecture roadmaps aligning data infrastructure investments with organizational business objectives.
  2. Organization-wide security governance — establish policies, standards, and incident-response protocols protecting enterprise databases against systemic risk.
  3. Database administration teams — mentor, evaluate, and develop staff across all skill levels to build organizational capability in data management.
  4. DBMS vendor relationships and upgrade roadmaps — negotiate contracts, evaluate emerging technologies, and lead adoption decisions at enterprise scale.
  5. Cross-departmental data governance programs — chair steering committees and drive policy decisions affecting data integrity, retention, and compliance.
  6. Organizational training and knowledge-management systems — design and oversee programs that institutionalize database best practices across technical and non-technical staff.
  7. Complex problem-solving methodologies — apply advanced systems analysis and deductive reasoning to resolve enterprise-wide database failures with broad operational impact.
  8. Budget and resource planning for data infrastructure — direct capital and operational expenditures for database platforms, tools, and personnel across business units.
  9. Executive and stakeholder communication — translate complex database performance findings and risk assessments into strategic recommendations for senior leadership.
  10. Industry standards and emerging database paradigms — evaluate and champion adoption of innovations such as distributed systems, AI-assisted management, and cloud-native architectures.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted query drafting — uses an LLM to generate basic SQL queries and schema lookup snippets, then reviews each output manually before running it against a test database Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Documentation navigation — prompts an AI assistant to summarize database management system release notes and upgrade guides, reducing manual reading time while confirming critical details independently Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Schema modification support — delegates initial drafts of ALTER TABLE and index-change scripts to an AI tool, validates the generated DDL against existing constraints, and applies changes only after peer review Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Security policy drafting — directs an AI assistant to produce user-access matrices and permission-tier outlines based on supplied requirements, then cross-checks the output against organizational security standards before implementation WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Test-case generation — hands off a defined set of database change scenarios to an AI assistant to produce regression test scripts, then executes and evaluates each script in a staging environment Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Performance diagnostics — feeds query execution plans and slow-log excerpts to an AI assistant to identify bottleneck candidates, then applies critical judgment to prioritize tuning actions the automated analysis surfaces Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Upgrade planning orchestration — uses an AI tool to draft phased upgrade runbooks for database management system version changes, retaining authorship of rollback procedures and scheduling decisions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Incident root-cause acceleration — supplies error logs and replication-state snapshots to an AI assistant for rapid hypothesis generation, then validates each hypothesis through controlled testing before escalating findings Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  4. Access-control audit — directs an AI assistant to diff current user-privilege configurations against policy baselines and flag anomalies, then exercises independent judgment to adjudicate each flagged discrepancy Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Autonomous workflow boundary-setting — defines which database administration subtasks (index recommendations, statistics refresh scheduling, routine backup verification) are delegated to AI agents versus which require human sign-off, establishing governance protocols for the team Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Cross-system architecture review — leads AI-assisted evaluation of multi-database integration designs, using the assistant to model dependency graphs and surface latency risks while retaining sole authority over final architectural decisions WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. AI tool evaluation and adoption — benchmarks competing AI coding and diagnostic assistants against internal database workloads, quantifies time-savings realized, and sets organizational standards for responsible tool adoption across the DBA function Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 30217
Augment share: 95%
Time saved: 82.7%
AI autonomy: 3.10
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Critical Thinking
Score: 57.9 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Artificial Intelligence
artificial_intelligence
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication10 statements
Emerging
  1. Database terminology explanation — translates basic SQL concepts and schema structures into plain language when responding to end-user questions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Incident documentation — writes initial incident reports describing database errors using structured templates with minimal guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. User training delivery — explains database access procedures and permission levels to non-technical staff through step-by-step walkthroughs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Technical requirement gathering — asks targeted clarifying questions during stakeholder meetings to capture data storage and retrieval needs accurately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Change communication — drafts clear written summaries of planned database upgrades and expected downtime for distribution to affected teams Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-functional briefing — presents database performance metrics and capacity planning findings to both technical and executive audiences using audience-appropriate language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Security policy documentation — authors comprehensive data access policies and procedures that clearly define user roles and permission boundaries Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Vendor coordination — communicates database licensing requirements, performance benchmarks, and integration constraints to external vendors with precision O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Architecture communication — leads technical design reviews, articulating complex database architecture decisions and trade-offs to diverse stakeholders with clarity and authority Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge transfer leadership — develops and delivers structured training programs that build database literacy across junior DBA staff and end-user communities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership9 statements
Emerging
  1. Task initiative — volunteers to own discrete database maintenance tasks such as index rebuilds or backup verification without being prompted Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer guidance — shares knowledge of database query optimization techniques informally with fellow junior staff during collaborative work sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Junior staff support — provides hands-on technical guidance to junior database administrators troubleshooting connection failures or slow query performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Project coordination — coordinates assigned components of a database migration project, tracking subtasks and communicating progress to senior leads Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Upgrade planning leadership — leads the planning and implementation of database management system upgrades, assigning responsibilities and managing timelines across a technical team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Security governance — takes ownership of database security policy enforcement, directing analysts to implement access controls and auditing corrective actions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Incident command — assumes lead role during database outages, directing triage efforts, delegating recovery tasks, and communicating status to management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Strategic database vision — shapes the organization's multi-year data infrastructure roadmap, aligning database architecture decisions with business objectives and influencing executive stakeholders Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. DBA team development — mentors a team of database administrators, establishing performance standards, conducting technical reviews, and cultivating career growth pathways Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-assessment — identifies personal knowledge gaps in specific database platforms or SQL dialects and selects targeted learning resources to address them Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error reflection — reviews failed database queries or misconfigured jobs to recognize where reasoning or assumptions broke down Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy selection — chooses appropriate practice environments such as sandbox databases or documentation deep-dives to build competence in unfamiliar DBMS features Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance monitoring — tracks personal accuracy and efficiency when executing routine DBA tasks to identify patterns requiring skill improvement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Diagnostic reasoning awareness — consciously evaluates the troubleshooting approach used during a complex database failure to determine whether a more systematic methodology would have reduced resolution time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous skill calibration — regularly benchmarks personal database administration competencies against evolving platform capabilities and industry certifications to maintain relevance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cognitive process modeling — articulates explicit problem-solving frameworks for database performance tuning and teaches these mental models to junior DBAs as transferable diagnostic skills Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Strategic learning planning — designs a personal and team-level professional development plan aligned with anticipated shifts in database technology such as cloud-native and distributed systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Query analysis — examines existing SQL queries to identify obvious inefficiencies such as missing indexes or full table scans before escalating to senior staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Error interpretation — reads database error logs and identifies the most likely cause of a reported failure based on available evidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Root cause analysis — investigates database performance degradation by systematically testing hypotheses about locking, resource contention, or query plan changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Security risk evaluation — assesses proposed user access configurations against data sensitivity levels to identify permission structures that violate least-privilege principles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Schema change impact assessment — evaluates proposed database schema modifications for downstream effects on application performance, data integrity, and dependent reporting systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Backup strategy validation — critically examines existing backup and recovery procedures against recovery time and recovery point objectives, identifying gaps before they become incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Vendor solution evaluation — applies structured criteria to assess competing DBMS platforms or cloud database services, weighing cost, scalability, and compatibility trade-offs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Architecture risk reasoning — leads critical evaluation of enterprise-level database architecture proposals, surfacing hidden assumptions about scalability, security, and resilience that stakeholders have not considered Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Policy logic auditing — examines organizational data governance policies for logical inconsistencies or unintended consequences before implementation across production systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Developer coordination — participates in joint code reviews with application developers to align on schema design standards and naming conventions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Team task sharing — contributes assigned portions of a shared database maintenance schedule, communicating availability and completion status reliably to teammates Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-team problem solving — works alongside network administrators and security analysts to diagnose and resolve database connectivity or access control issues Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stakeholder requirement integration — incorporates input from business analysts and end users into database design decisions, balancing competing functional and performance needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Migration project collaboration — partners with application developers, infrastructure engineers, and project managers to execute complex database migrations with minimal service disruption Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared security governance — collaborates with cybersecurity teams to co-develop and enforce database security policies that satisfy both operational and compliance requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Vendor partnership management — works cooperatively with external database vendors during support escalations, sharing diagnostic data and coordinating resolution timelines effectively O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Enterprise data team integration — builds and sustains high-functioning collaborative relationships across data engineering, analytics, application development, and IT operations to drive cohesive data infrastructure outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Standards coalition building — leads multi-team working groups to develop shared database development standards, gaining buy-in from stakeholders with differing technical priorities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Data handling integrity — handles sensitive database contents such as personally identifiable information with appropriate discretion and does not access data beyond authorized scope Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability in errors — acknowledges mistakes in database configuration changes promptly and reports them to supervisors without deflection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Change control compliance — follows established change management procedures for all database modifications, documenting approvals and testing steps even under time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Confidentiality maintenance — upholds data privacy obligations when responding to user requests for data access, declining requests that fall outside authorized parameters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical access administration — enforces user permission structures that reflect principle-of-least-privilege without favoritism, maintaining consistent standards regardless of requestor seniority Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional accountability — takes full ownership of production incidents caused by administered database changes, leading the post-mortem and implementing corrective controls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Transparent reporting — provides accurate and unembellished database performance and security status reports to management, including unfavorable findings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational integrity modeling — sets the professional and ethical standard for the DBA team, confronting corner-cutting behaviors and reinforcing a culture of disciplined, accountable database stewardship Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Compliance advocacy — proactively identifies and escalates data governance risks such as regulatory non-compliance or security control gaps, prioritizing organizational integrity over operational convenience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Query optimization experimentation — tests alternative index strategies or query rewrites to discover more efficient execution plans when standard approaches underperform Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workaround generation — devises interim solutions to maintain application functionality when a database component fails unexpectedly pending a permanent fix Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Schema design innovation — proposes non-standard data modeling approaches such as hybrid relational-JSON structures when conventional schemas do not meet application performance requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Automation ideation — identifies repetitive DBA tasks and designs scripted automation routines that reduce manual intervention and human error risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Performance tuning invention — engineers novel combinations of partitioning, caching, and indexing strategies to resolve chronic database performance bottlenecks that standard tuning guidance does not address Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Disaster recovery innovation — designs creative backup and failover architectures that meet aggressive recovery objectives within constrained infrastructure budgets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Monitoring solution design — builds custom alerting and diagnostic dashboards that surface database health signals not captured by out-of-the-box DBMS monitoring tools Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Architecture reinvention — leads exploration and adoption of emerging database paradigms such as NewSQL, graph databases, or distributed ledger systems to solve problems that relational models cannot address effectively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Process innovation leadership — champions the introduction of DevOps database practices such as database-as-code and continuous integration pipelines, transforming how the organization manages database change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Platform learning commitment — actively pursues self-study of an unfamiliar database platform when assigned to a new system rather than limiting effort to already-known tools Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback receptivity — incorporates supervisor feedback on database design submissions without defensiveness, revising work to reflect suggested improvements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Certification pursuit — enrolls in and completes relevant database certifications such as Oracle OCA or Microsoft Azure Database credentials to formalize developing competencies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Failure learning — documents lessons learned from database incidents including self-caused errors and applies these insights to improve future configuration and change practices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Technology evolution adaptation — proactively learns emerging database technologies such as cloud-managed databases or in-memory data stores as organizational infrastructure evolves Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stretch assignment acceptance — volunteers for high-complexity database projects at the edge of current expertise, treating the challenge as deliberate skill development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Constructive critique integration — seeks peer code reviews of database scripts and stored procedures, treating critical feedback as performance-improvement data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture cultivation — establishes team learning rituals such as database technology demos, post-incident reviews, and reading groups that normalize continuous growth across the DBA function Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adversity reframing — treats major database outages or failed migrations as organizational learning opportunities, leading structured retrospectives that convert failures into systemic improvements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention management during maintenance — applies focused, step-by-step attention during high-risk maintenance windows to avoid procedural errors on production databases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress recognition — recognizes personal signs of cognitive overload during complex troubleshooting and uses deliberate pausing strategies to reset before continuing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interruption management — protects concentrated work periods during critical database migrations by communicating availability boundaries to colleagues and managing incoming requests intentionally Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under pressure — maintains composed and methodical behavior during database outages rather than reacting impulsively to stakeholder urgency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Deliberate change execution — approaches all production database changes with a pre-task mental review of the change plan, expected outcomes, and rollback conditions before executing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained focus during audits — maintains thorough and uninterrupted attention across extended database security audit sessions, catching anomalies that distracted review would miss Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional stakeholder engagement — gives full, undistracted attention during user requirements sessions, listening actively to surface unstated data needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team composure modeling — demonstrates and coaches calm, deliberate decision-making during high-stakes incidents, setting a mindful operational standard that stabilizes team performance under pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Process intentionality advocacy — champions mindful change management practices across the DBA team, embedding pre-flight checklists and deliberate review steps into standard operating procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Persistence through complex bugs — continues systematic investigation of a difficult database error across multiple failed hypotheses rather than abandoning the effort prematurely Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Discomfort tolerance in learning — persists through the steep learning curve of an unfamiliar DBMS without disengaging when initial attempts produce errors or confusion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Incident endurance — sustains effective technical performance during extended database recovery operations that span multiple hours or shift boundaries Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Criticism resilience — maintains professional motivation and continues quality work after receiving critical feedback on a database design or implementation approach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-stakes maintenance courage — executes complex, high-risk schema changes or major version upgrades on production systems with disciplined confidence backed by thorough preparation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained pressure performance — delivers reliable database administration quality through extended periods of organizational change, system instability, or resource constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Uncertainty navigation — makes informed database configuration decisions in ambiguous situations where complete information is unavailable, acting on best-available evidence rather than deferring indefinitely Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis leadership endurance — leads the technical and human dimensions of a prolonged database disaster recovery event, sustaining team morale and decision quality across an extended high-stakes effort Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational resilience building — develops and institutionalizes database resilience practices including chaos testing, failover drills, and runbook development that strengthen the organization's capacity to absorb future disruptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Administrator (Admin) · Automatic Data Processing Planner (ADP Planner) · Cyber Database Administrator (Cyber DBA) · Data Administrator (Data Admin) · Data Engineer · Data Management Associate · Data Management IT Specialist (Data Management Information Technology Specialist) · Data Miner · Data Recovery Planner · Data Security Administrator · Data Storage Specialist · Database Administration Associate
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Critical ThinkingComplex Problem SolvingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningJudgment and Decision MakingActive LearningProgrammingSpeakingMonitoringWritingSystems EvaluationOperations AnalysisSystems AnalysisMathematicsLearning StrategiesCoordinationInstructing
Knowledge domains
Computers and ElectronicsEnglish LanguageCustomer and Personal ServiceMathematicsTelecommunicationsEngineering and TechnologyAdministration and ManagementEducation and Training
Abilities
Deductive ReasoningProblem SensitivityInductive ReasoningInformation OrderingOral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionNear VisionOral ExpressionCategory FlexibilityWritten Expression
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityCautiousnessIntegrityIntellectual CuriosityAchievement Orientation
Technology
Enterprise resource planning ERP softwareAccess softwareBackup or archival softwareData base management system softwareWeb page creation and editing softwareObject or component oriented development softwareWeb platform development softwareData base user interface and query softwareStorage networking softwareCloud-based management software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Modify existing databases and database management systems or direct programmers and analysts to make changes.
  2. Plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard information in computer files against accidental or unauthorized damage, modification or disclosure.
  3. Plan and install upgrades of database management system software to enhance database performance.
  4. Specify users and user access levels for each segment of database.
  5. Test changes to database applications or systems.
  6. Test programs or databases, correct errors, and make necessary modifications.
  7. Train users and answer questions.
  8. Provide technical support to junior staff or clients.
CIP education codes
11.010111.080211.1003

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.