From AI integration to skills enhancement, this guide will help you adapt and excel as a database developer in 2023.
Database professionals have been sitting pretty with excellent job security lately. Why? Because companies are drowning in data and need a helping hand to manage it all. This has created a huge demand for top-notch database developers.
However, with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning making waves, the landscape is shifting, and 2023 might feel a little more challenging. If you’ve got your eye on a new job, here’s what you need to know.
are database developers in demand?
Database developers still command a high starting salary. Randstad’s salary data shows that SQL developers in Dallas, TX, can expect an average salary of around $135,000, while data warehouse devs are pulling in about $137,000. Employers are particularly interested in candidates with the following skills and qualifications on their resumes:
- Microsoft certified systems engineer (MCSE) qualification
- Oracle Database PL/SQL Developer Certified Professional
- IBM Certified Developer
- experience with Hadoop, Amazon S3, Microsoft Azure or similar
- relevant coding experience
Data management is a big deal for most businesses, which means database developers should be in high demand for the long haul.
what 2023 trends will impact database developers?
Nevertheless, database professionals may face some upheaval in the coming year, mainly thanks to recent breakthroughs in AI. Here are some trends to keep an eye on:
new AI tools
Tools like ChatGPT can whip up slick SQL queries, making it a breeze for anyone to build and maintain databases. But don’t fret: enterprise-level data management isn’t going away, and skilled database developers will still be needed for the foreseeable future.
AI integration
Companies may start embracing in-house AI solutions like Azure OpenAI, which means you'll want to be the go-to developer for working with relevant APIs, building plugins and crafting the right database structures for these tools.
AI collaboration
New tools like GitHub Co-Pilot offer an AI assistant to help developers. Get familiar with these tools — they’re here to help you work smarter, not harder.
cybersecurity cat-and-mouse
Hackers are getting craftier, so database developers must know about the latest threats. Employers are searching for data management talent with cybersecurity top of their minds.
efficiency is king
With IT budgets feeling the squeeze, you'll need to find ways to trim the fat. Be ready with ideas on cutting costs on things like cloud storage, which might mean rethinking your current data infrastructure.
how to keep your database developer resume up-to-date
If you do search for a new job in 2023, you’ll need to keep your skills razor-sharp. Here’s a handy checklist to help you stay ahead of the curve:
- Freshen up any expired certifications and think about leveling up when you can — Randstad partner Udemy offers online courses ranging from The Complete SQL Bootcamp to the Fundamentals of Database Engineering.
- Keep tabs on blogs, podcasts and other news sources for the latest in data management trends.
- Tinker with AI tools and brainstorm ways to work them into your workflow.
- Stay vigilant about emerging cybersecurity threats.
- Network with other professionals in your field, attending conferences or joining online communities to share insights and learn from their experiences.
- Explore and learn new database technologies or programming languages that complement your current skill set and expand your marketability.
Last but not least, check in regularly with Randstad’s career advice section for the latest news, insights and tips for technology professionals — and be sure to sign up for database developer job alerts on our board.