Database Administrator (DBA) Position Overview

Maintaining a successful database environment is of paramount importance today. A Database Administrator is the person who designs, implements, and ensures that the database system is regularly updated. He also establishes policies and procedures that pertain to the efficient management, security, and use of the database.

Credentials to look For: 

• A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.
• Associate’s degree in computer science or information systems
• Masters degree preferred.

Skills to look for: 

• Good communication skills
• Knowledge of database queries, database theory, and database theory
• Knowledge of SQL
• Knowledge about the RDBMS

Experienced candidates who are familiar with data privacy and recovery procedures stand out. Look for the one who is dedicated and understand your company’s needs and business goals.

Here are some important Database Administrator (DBA) interview questions that will help you evaluate the skills and potential of all the applicants.

Operational and Circumstantial questions

• How do you transfer data from MySQL to Microsoft SQL Server?
• What steps must be taken in order to protect the databases from external threats?
• How often will you perform tests to ensure data privacy?
• For creating a new database of our employee records how will you define the system storage requirements?

Job-specific questions

• Do you have an understanding of SQL? Mention some common SQL queries and their roles.
• Where you can or should use a foreign key? Give an example.
• How relational database differ from navigational databases?
• Explain the difference between PL/SQL and T-SQL.
• How will you identify if a database server is running properly or not?
• When are “VARCHAR” and “CHAR” used?

Behavioral questions

• What is the most complex project that you have worked on? What was your role in it?
• How do you stay up-to-date with new applications?
• Have you ever implemented a solution that improved data storage? If yes, then what was your role in it, and what was the solution?