Building a career based on SQL Server is sensible for developers who want to enter an in-demand profession and ensure good prospects for progression are available to them.
If you are new to this area, here are just 10 career paths that working with SQL Server will open up to you so you have an idea of what opportunities are available.
Database Administrator
DBAs in SQL environments are responsible for overseeing the various aspects of the server’s operations that go together to ensure it runs smoothly, consistently, and with minimal downtime.
Database Developer
Developers can turn to SQL Server and have a hand in designing databases from the ground up, covering everything from table layouts to query optimizations. To learn more, check out this introduction guide to SQL Server architecture and internals.
Data Scientist
Databases are great at storing and organizing data but, of course, it is still down to human specialists to analyze and utilize this information effectively. That is where data scientists come in, applying their talents to everything from big data analytics to machine learning and beyond.
Trainer
If you are a master of SQL Server and you want to put your capabilities to use in training the next generation of users through established courses, then qualifying as a certified trainer will be a good career path to pursue.
Business Intelligence Developer
As a BI developer, your responsibilities could cover everything from handling SQL Server integration services to taking charge of reporting and analysis, typically within a commercial environment.
Data Analyst
Similar to a data scientist, but with a focus on gleaning business-based insights from SQL Server infrastructures, a data analyst will be expected to drill down into the figures and keep tabs on key performance indicators for clients and also boil down complex findings into a form that is digestible by non-experts.
Big Data Architect
As an architect of Big Data solutions based on SQL Server, you will be expected to have an intimate understanding of all the technologies involved and use it to provide guidance to organizations regarding the kinds of hardware and software they will need to build their own Big Data solution.
QA Tester
Myriad products and services are powered in part by SQL Server databases and, of course, each one of these needs to be put through its paces by quality assurance testers who know how to pinpoint problems and help find fixes before launch day.
Writer
If you rather would share your thoughts and insights on SQL Server without being directly involved in administration and analytics, then you always could start a career as a writer. Plenty of publications need experts in this field to create articles, so there should be ample opportunities available.
Manager
Anyone who has great managerial skills and interpersonal capabilities can take on an SQL Server role that allows them to orchestrate teams of administrators, analysts, and developers.
Some of these roles require more experience and training than others, but you should be able to see just how diverse the SQL employment market can be.
