Database Technician

What does a Database Technician do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Database Technician is responsible for the installation, operation, and maintenance of database systems that form the core of many organizations' IT environments. Tasks include ensuring that databases are accessible, secure, and perform optimally. The role often involves monitoring systems, troubleshooting, managing backups and restores, and optimizing performance. Collaboration with developers and system administrators to tailor the database environment to organizational needs is also common. The work environment is typically office-based, but remote work and on-call duties may occur, especially in larger organizations or companies with high availability requirements.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Database Technician has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43 700 SEK per month, increasing to 45 000 SEK in 2023, and further to 46 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a salary increase of approximately 6.9% over the period, reflecting increased demand for technical skills in data management and IT security. This salary growth is influenced by factors such as digitalization, larger data volumes, and higher security requirements in both private and public sectors. The job market for Database Technicians remains strong, offering good opportunities for salary negotiations and individual development for those with relevant skills.

Database Technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 281 SEK
• Women earn: 43 700 SEK/month (91% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 47 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan areas often offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a Database Technician, a post-secondary education in IT, computer science, or systems science is usually required. Many employers seek practical experience with database management and certifications in relevant systems. Self-study, online courses, and certifications can provide competitive advantages, especially in a rapidly changing industry.

• Post-secondary education: YH training (2 years) or university degree (3 years) in IT or data
• Certifications: Examples include Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL
• Internships: Common during education or through trainee programs
• Experience: Often requires previous work with databases or system administration
• Self-study: Online courses and labs provide a competitive edge

Common benefits and compensations

Database Technicians are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Other common compensations include occupational pension, skills development, and bonus or profit-sharing schemes. In some cases, on-call or standby pay may also be provided depending on the employer and operational requirements.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Database Technicians is characterized by high demand, providing good opportunities for those with the right skills. At the same time, there is a paradoxical situation with both recruitment difficulties and a supply of experienced professionals leaving the role. Rapid technological development and increased security requirements demand continuous skills development. Recruitment is particularly challenging for employers seeking specialized expertise in specific database systems. For individuals, this means constantly updating skills and being prepared to further educate oneself to remain competitive in the job market.

Tips for aspiring Database Technicians

To succeed as a Database Technician, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with structured problem-solving. Developing accuracy is crucial, as small mistakes can have large consequences in database environments. Analytical skills help to quickly identify and fix errors, while communication skills facilitate collaboration with developers and other IT specialists. Flexibility and stress resilience are valuable qualities, especially when working with critical systems under time pressure. Invest in certifications and ongoing education to stay updated on new technologies. Finally, demonstrate initiative and independence, as many tasks require personal responsibility and proactive problem prevention.

Key facts about Database Technicians

• Educational level: Post-secondary education or university degree
• Work environment: Office-based, often with remote work options
• Demand: Very high according to the Employment Service
• Special skills: Database management, security, backup, and restoration
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes on-call or standby

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a Database Technician, opportunities open for more advanced roles such as Database Administrator (DBA), IT architect, or technical project manager. Other possible career paths include system developer or security specialist. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, demand for system administrators, including Database Technicians, remains high and is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. There are approximately 179 job openings in the field, indicating an active job market. Employers also report difficulties in finding the right skills, further strengthening the position of qualified Database Technicians.

Common questions about Database Technicians

• What does a Database Technician earn?
  - A Database Technician has an average salary of 46 700 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, gender, and region.
• What education is required to become a Database Technician?
  - Typically, post-secondary education in IT or data, along with certifications in database management, is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 43 700 SEK per month, which is 91% of men's salary of 47 800 SEK per month.
• What is the work environment like for a Database Technician?
  - The work environment is mainly office-based with elements of remote work and occasional on-call duties.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - After a few years, Database Technicians can develop into roles such as DBA, IT architect, or security specialist.
• What are the future prospects for a Database Technician?
  - Demand is very high and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Database Technician?
  - The highest salary is 50,500 SEK and the lowest is 34,200 SEK per month, depending on education and employment type.