What does a Database Analyst do? – Tasks and work environment
A Database Analyst works with interpreting, structuring, and analyzing large amounts of data in company databases. Tasks include designing and optimizing database systems, performing advanced data extraction, and processing information to support business decision-making. Database Analysts often collaborate with other IT specialists, developers, and business managers to ensure data is used efficiently and securely. The work is primarily conducted in an office environment, where modern digital tools and systems play a central role in daily tasks. It is common to work in project teams, sometimes under tight deadlines with high demands for accuracy and quality.
Salary development over time
The salary for a Database Analyst has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 50,700 SEK per month, increasing to 52 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 54 900 SEK per month. This represents a salary increase of just over 8.3% during this period. The salary growth reflects the increased demand for data competence and advanced data analysis across many industries, as well as the growing competition for qualified analysts. The development is also driven by higher requirements for specialization, technical skills, and broad responsibilities within data management and security. Salary levels are also influenced by education and experience, with those holding doctoral degrees and working in the private sector often earning the highest salaries.
Database Analyst salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 54 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,000 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-high school education)
- Highest salary: 61,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
- Hourly wage: 330 SEK/hour (calculated on 166 hours/month)
- Women: 52 700 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
- Men: 55 600 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Salary variations exist, with higher levels in metropolitan areas and the private sector
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a Database Analyst often involves a university or college education in data or systems science, often combined with specialized courses in database management and data analysis. Many employers require documented experience with specific database technologies, but certifications and relevant internships are also advantageous. Education programs vary in length, but a bachelor's degree is usually a basic requirement, while advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree.
- Bachelor's degree in data/system science: 3 years
- Master's or postgraduate degree: 1–2 years after bachelor's
- Certifications: For example, Microsoft SQL, Oracle, AWS, or similar
- Internships/trainee programs: Common during education
- Prerequisites: Basic programming, statistics, and database technology
- Self-study/online courses: Can provide valuable skills in specific tools and languages
Working as a Database Analyst often means being the company's "data detective" – finding hidden patterns and connections in large data sets that can give the business a decisive competitive advantage. Creative problem-solving and curiosity are valuable traits when new questions or challenges arise in the data landscape.
Common benefits and compensations
Database Analysts are often offered attractive benefits beyond salary, such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, remote work options, and flexible working hours. Skills development, conferences, and subsidized courses are also common to stay updated in the rapidly evolving IT industry. Some employers offer bonuses, health insurance, and extra vacation days.
Challenges and competition
The market for Database Analysts is characterized by high demand and good employment opportunities, but there is also some competition for the most attractive positions, especially within larger companies and organizations. The role requires continuous skills development to keep pace with rapid technological advancements in data management and analysis. The recruitment situation can be described as paradoxical – there are both recruitment difficulties and relatively high mobility within the profession. Challenges may also arise from complex database environments, increasing security requirements, and the need to quickly adapt to new technologies and working methods.
Tips for those wanting to become a Database Analyst
To succeed as a Database Analyst, it is good to combine technical curiosity with analytical ability and precision. Building knowledge in database technology and programming early on provides a solid foundation, while a structured work approach helps manage complex data models. Problem-solving skills are central, as tasks often involve identifying and resolving unexpected challenges in large datasets. Being communicative and able to collaborate with colleagues from different parts of the organization is also important, as analysis results often need to be translated into practical decisions. Keeping up to date with new tools and methods, and obtaining certifications that enhance your profile, is advisable. Finally, an interest in business development and processes is valuable to understand how data analysis can create tangible benefits.
Key facts about Database Analysts
- Educational level: Bachelor's degree or higher in data/system science
- Work environment: Office-based, often hybrid/remote options
- Common employment type: Permanent employment or consulting assignments
- Demand: Great opportunities for work, especially in metropolitan areas and the private sector
- Special skills: SQL, database management, data analysis, programming
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a Database Analyst, opportunities open up to advance to roles such as database architect, data engineer, or IT project manager. Some choose to specialize in areas like business intelligence, data governance, or data security. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for software and system developers, the job market is good, and opportunities are expected to remain strong over the next five years, with continued demand in both private and public sectors. However, the recruitment situation is characterized by some mobility and difficulty in finding candidates with the right skills, making the profession attractive for those who want to develop and take new steps in their careers.
Frequently asked questions about Database Analysts
- What is the average salary of a Database Analyst?
- The average salary is 54 900 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn on average 55 600 SEK and women 52 700 SEK, which means women earn approximately 95% of men's salaries.
- How has the salary development looked for Database Analysts?
- Salaries have steadily increased over recent years, from 50,700 SEK in 2022 to 54 900 SEK in 2024.
- What education is required to become a Database Analyst?
- Usually, at least a bachelor's degree in data or systems science, preferably supplemented with certifications.
- What is the job market like for Database Analysts?
- The job market is very good, with great opportunities for employment and many vacancies.
- What are the most common tasks?
- Data analysis, database optimization, reporting, and development of data models.
- How big is the salary range between the lowest and highest salaries?
- The lowest reported salary is 40,000 SEK and the highest 61,600 SEK per month.
