If you're a detail-oriented tech professional who likes working with data, you might want to consider a career as an SQL developer. Given companies’ increasing focus on storing and analyzing data, learning SQL can open up a variety of interesting, potentially lucrative career paths.
What is SQL?
SQL (Structured Query Language) is a programming language used to manipulate databases, and it's the backbone of data storage and analytics. Data impacts every aspect of an enterprise. SQL developers play a crucial role in ensuring data integrity, efficiency, and security; the job also involves interacting with other stakeholders, from analysts to executives.
SQL developers use four basic operations to direct data in database tables: create, read, update and delete. Many jobs involve writing and optimizing SQL queries, then extracting and organizing data so others in the company (such as analysts) can use it.
Where can I learn SQL?
Given SQL’s popularity, opportunities for learning it abound. Many computer science and data-related classes in colleges and universities will break down the nuances of SQL, of course. For those who prefer self-learning (or don’t have the time and resources for a two- or four-year degree), there are numerous online options, including Udemy, which has SQL courses that range in price from around $100 to $175, along with Coursera, which lists numerous SQL courses in collaboration with major universities and colleges.
If you’re just exploring SQL for the first time and wondering whether it’s right for your career aspirations, check out this helpful offering from w3schools, which breaks down the various aspects of SQL into extensive “chapters.” Last but certainly not least, Microsoft offers a variety of training materials and instructor-led courses, including lessons on developing SQL databases and working with SQL data in the context of Azure.
Books such as "SQL for Dummies" by Allen Taylor, "Learning SQL: Generate, Manipulate and Retrieve Data" by Alan Beaulieu or "Practical SQL: A Beginner's Guide to Storytelling With Data" by Anthony DeBarros are just three more examples of resources where you can acquire a baseline skillset.
Leo Ye, the CEO and Co-founder of Cubo, makes the case for SQL developers to learn and make use of the advantages of cloud databases, such as on-demand resource allocation, worldwide accessibility, and easy integration with other cloud services.
“A growing number of people are using cloud databases because of their scalability, flexibility, and affordability. SQL developers must be familiar with the provisioning and management of cloud-based databases when working with environments like AWS, Azure, or GCP,” he said. “Familiarity with database-as-a-service (DBaaS) products that offer pre-configured database instances, like Amazon RDS or Azure SQL Database are beneficial, too.”
Do I need certifications to become an SQL developer?
The short answer is “no.” If you have the necessary SQL skills, many companies will be willing to consider your application—provided you can prove those skills during a technical interview. As with other specializations within tech, certifications may help you stand out to a recruiter and/or hiring manager considering applications.
That being said, there are numerous SQL certifications available, many of them platform-specific, including Microsoft SQL certifications and training, Oracle database certifications and training, SAP certifications and training, and IBM certifications and training.
Do I need a degree to become an SQL developer?
Prabhsharan Singh, a technical team leader, software developer and experienced full-stack developer skilled in SQL, Vue.js, Nodejs, and MongoDB, has a B.S. in Technology - BTech and Computer Science, from Guru Nanak Dev University. He notes that, while an undergraduate degree is not always a requirement for becoming a SQL developer, a strong academic foundation in computer science, information technology, or related field can set you apart.
“A degree program provides a comprehensive understanding of database concepts, data modeling, and software development principles,” he said, “but practical skills and hands-on experience with SQL are equally important. Many professionals enter the field with certifications or through self-study, and they're more than capable of demonstrating their proficiency in SQL development.”
While technical knowledge is imperative, soft skills are critical, too.
Shanal Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer at TechAhead, highlights the importance of knowing how to communicate and collaborate with your associates.
“In order to function effectively within interdisciplinary teams, SQL developers need to have strong communication and teamwork abilities,” he said. “Because you have to work collaboratively with software developers, data analysts, and business stakeholders, you must be able to comprehend business requirements and translate them into database solutions. It's especially crucial to be able to communicate technical concepts to non-technical colleagues.”
What is a SQL developer career arc?
The career progression for SQL developers varies and depends on experience, skills and demand. It's likely you'll start your trajectory as a junior SQL developer and, as you gain proficiency, become a SQL developer, and, eventually, a senior SQL developer.
Specializing in a specific database management system like Oracle, MySQL or Microsoft SQL Server is another avenue for advancement. Learning data modeling, performance tuning, and data integration techniques, will open you up to a myriad of possibilities—you could easily jump from there into a data scientist role. With enhanced skills, you'll be able to smoothly transition into a variety of leadership roles in areas such as database management, business intelligence, and data architecture.
“What ever direction you choose to go in, you should remain teachable,” Aggarwal said. “Stay current with emerging trends in database technology and SQL best practices; it will be central to your career growth.”
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