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Data & Business Intelligence IT Infrastructure Job Descriptions

Database Administrator: Job description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive Database Administrator job description to attract top talent.

The job of the database administrator is to design, manage and administer database management systems and to ensure the consistency, quality, security, and ongoing accessibility of information.

Data Administrator: the job

The following are the steps a database administrator takes to perform his or her job.


Also read the difference between Big Data and Business Intelligence


Design of databases

After taking into account the client’s specific requirements, particularly concerning the size of the database, the database administrator sets up standards and good practices for the development teams.
In collaboration with the various project stakeholders, he/she defines the database implementation choices. Following this, the administrator defines the database parameters, the security rules, models, and designs the tables and keys.

Administration and maintenance

Once the database has been set up, the administrator must implement the data on the technical support. In terms of administration, this means guaranteeing the availability and quality of the data, administering access authorizations, and dealing with security issues. On the other hand, in terms of maintenance, this means ensuring that the data is updated, backed up, and upgraded. It is also the Database Administrator’s responsibility to guarantee the recovery of data and the restoration of conditions following an incident, as well as the correction of any bugs.

Technological monitoring and control of the database

The role of this professional is also to monitor the evolution of database versions and to carry out tests and validation of their management. He/she will also have to anticipate technical developments with a daily technology watch.

Required skills of the Database Administrator

Technical skills

The Database Administrator is familiar with the main software (Oracle, MySQL, SyBase, SQL Server, etc.), the SQL query language, and security issues. Knowledge of Shell scripts under UNIX, Windows or MVS as well as knowledge of technical English is also essential.

Understanding the environment

For this professional, an understanding of the environment, its development, and its operation is essential. Good knowledge of the activities and of the client enables him/her to anticipate the latter’s needs and also to intervene more effectively when necessary.

Reactive and methodical

Methodical and synthetic are the keywords of the database administrator. As with all freelancers, they are also expected to be open-minded and adaptable.

Context

Since the administrator evolves on different supports: mobile databases, shared databases or datawarehouses, the functions of network architect and database administrator are often confused.

The administrator is a real link between the project managers and engineers and the users of the database in order to better define the needs of each person and the company.
The system administrator is required to work on call. Indeed, the systems operate 24 hours a day and many operations require action outside office hours.

As far as the hierarchical reporting line for the freelance database administrator is concerned, it is most often the mission director or technical director.


Also read IT infrastructure: components, job profile, and best practices


Salary

The average daily rate is between €480 and €550

Career progression

This Database Administrator position requires previous experience but will also allow you to progress. For example:

Database Architect
Expert consultant in database optimization
Storage manager or infrastructure manager

Head of a DBA team
Chief data officer

Database administrator: Training and education

To conclude, the Database Administrator has a profile with high technical added value. In other words, they may have a background in development with a specialization in databases or a generalist background in systems and networks.

Level bac + 3
License pro specializing in database administration or distributed systems…

Bac + 5 level
Master’s degree in databases and distributed applications, decisional computing…
Engineering degree with a specialization in database engineering or operation…

You can also read : Why and how to make a technological watch? and 10 Top Database Certifications

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IT Infrastructure Job Descriptions Project Manager

Solution Architect: Job description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive Solution Architect job description to attract top talent.

The Solution Architect job is to design, explain and implement solutions adapted to the company’s specific problems. He or she also builds complex offerings and advises clients on the transformation of information systems. They must study technical feasibility and risks before proposing solutions.


Learn more about IT infrastructure: components, job profile, and best practices


Solution Architect: the job

In a constantly changing technological environment, companies must ensure that their information systems are updated to meet new requirements. This digital transformation requires thus specific skills and practices to keep the company at the forefront of technology

So, what ae the Solutions Architect’s tasks?

Analyzing the project environment and its challenges

The Solution Architect manages the entire project and takes care of solution costs. He or she also manages the development team.

Define a solution path suitable for the company

Typically, companies have their specific information systems, information context, and integration requirements. The Solutions Architect must therefore ensure to propose a system that meets the company’s expectations.

Respect for constraints

Each solution is built using specific tools and implementations that can generate significant costs. The Solutions Architect must therefore know how to optimize the budget assigned to the project, considering the technological and management constraints.

Required skills of the Solution Architect

Excellent technical knowledge

Like the SAP FICO consultant, the Solutions Architects must have excellent technical knowledge in their field. In order to offer the best possible analysis, the Solutions Architect must know everything about operating systems, database management systems, or network equipment.

Specific skills may be required in portals, CMS, multi-channel, BPM, service architecture (SOA), etc.

Analytical skills and a systemic vision of information systems

Designing a solution requires knowledge of the articulation of the different components of the company. The Solutions Architect must therefore understand the company’s strategy and its business model in order to assimilate the objectives.

They must also analyze the technological functioning of the company to identify the means to implement to bring the project to a successful conclusion.

A strong ability to present ideas

Communication skills are essential for the Solutions Architect, who will be negotiating with different stakeholders in the business to understand their needs and analyze risks.

This position involves working with IT engineers, business analysts, and project groups. The Solutions Architect must therefore be able to listen, advise and explain.


Also read our article about Project Management, roles, skills and career paths


Context

Whether it is supporting a digital transformation project, finding a solution that fits the business ecosystem, or preventing information system risks, more and more companies are turning to a Solutions Architect.

A well-designed solution helps the team realize a project on time and on budget, and guarantees a concrete answer to a problem.

The Solutions Architect can work as a sector specialist in a large company or as an external consultant, on their own, or for an ESN (digital service company).

Salary

The average daily rate for an Operations Analyst is between €500 and €900, which is similar to the daily rate for a Storage and Backup Engineer.

Training and education

To become a Solutions Architect, the most common training is a 5-year degree in engineering (networks and IT) or a Master’s degree in networks, telecoms, and IT.

To conclude, the job of Solutions Architects is accessible to experienced managers with skills acquired in project management. A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in the IT field is generally required.

You can also read : 11 examples of Information Architecture

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IT Infrastructure Job Descriptions

IT Infrastructure: components, job profiles, and best practices

In this article, we describe the components of the IT infrastructure, their functions and job profiles.

IT infrastructure consists of hardware, software, and network, i.e. the components necessary to run and manage corporate IT environments.

IT infrastructure can be deployed within a cloud computing system or within the structure of an organization itself.

In addition to hardware, software, and networking, there is the operating system and data storage.

Also, IT infrastructure products may be available as software applications or as online solutions offered by service providers.


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Why IT infrastructure matters

IT infrastructure, components and professions profiles

In the IT infrastructure, the above-mentioned technology components both contribute to and drive business functions.

With the modern rapidly changing pace of technology and the competitive nature of business, IT leaders must ensure that their IT infrastructure is well designed to make changes quickly without impacting business continuity.

Therefore, properly networked, optimizing technology can improve communication, increase efficiency and boost productivity.

That is to say, a flexible, reliable, and secure IT infrastructure can help a company achieve its goals and provide a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Conversely, an improperly implemented IT infrastructure leads to connectivity, productivity and security issues, such as outages and system breaches.

Thus, a properly implemented infrastructure can be a key factor in a company’s profitability.

But, what are the benefits of the IT infrastructure components, their functions and the IT infrastructure job profiles?


Also read our Network/Telecom Engineer and Solution Architect Job description


Benefits of an IT infrastructure

IT infrastructure, components and professions profiles

Above all, a proper implemented IT infrastructure, allows a company to:

  • Provide a positive customer experience by ensuring uninterrupted access to its website.
  • Develop fats solutions on the market.
  • Collect real-time data to make quick decisions.
  • Improve employee productivity.

IT infrastructure job profile: VoIP engineer.

VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) is a technology that allows the transmission of voice over compatible IP networks. For example, it is the technology used by the communication service Skype that enables millions of people to make calls through WhatsApp every day.

Accordingly, the role of a VoIP engineer is to manage the implementation within the organization.


Discover more about the role of a VoIP engineer.


How do the components of the IT infrastructure work?

To start, the components of the IT infrastructure consist of interdependent elements. Hardware and software represent the two main component groups of IT infrastructure. The two are complementary of each other. Hardware uses software, for example, an operating system, to function.

Likewise, an operating system manages hardware and system resources. Operating systems also establish connections between software applications and physical resources, using network components.

To continue, let’s see more in detail what are the components of the IT infrastructure.


Also read our Storage and Backup Engineer and Technical Expert Job description


IT infrastructure components: Hardware

Hardware components include:

  • Desktop computers
  • Servers
  • Data centers
  • Hubs
  • Routers
  • Switches
  • Facilities

Also discover our Penetration Tester and Database Administrator Job description


IT infrastructure components: Software

Software components include:

  • CMS (Content management systems)
  • CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
  • ERP (Enterprise resource planning)
  • Operating systems
  • Web servers

IT infrastructure components: Facilities

Facilities or physical equipment provide the room for servers, data centers, and network hardware. They also include network cabling in offices to connect the various components of an IT infrastructure.

IT infrastructure components: Networks

The interconnection between network components enables network operations, management, and communication between internal and external systems.

The Internet connection, activation tools, firewall, and security, as well as the hardware, i.e. routers, switches, and cables, are essential for the operation of a network.


IT infrastructure job profile: Cisco Network Engineer.

Nearly half of all companies today use Cisco solutions. Cisco Systems, or Cisco, is an American IT company specializing in the manufacture and sale of network equipment (routers, Ethernet switches as well as servers, etc.).

But, what is the role of the Cisco Network Engineer? Read our Cisco Network Engineer job description, to learn about their missions, skills, and salary of these professionals.


How many types of IT infrastructure are there?

Traditional IT infrastructure

Traditional IT infrastructure, components and professions profiles

To start, the components (the data center, data storage, hardware, and servers) of the traditional IT infrastructure, are managed completely in-house.

Moreover, a traditional IT infrastructure consists of the usual hardware and software components: facilities, data centers, network hardware desktop computers, and enterprise application software solutions. Generally, this infrastructure configuration requires more energy, physical space, and budget than other types of infrastructure. Traditional infrastructure is commonly installed on site for exclusive corporate or private use.


IT infrastructure job profile: Linux Systems Engineer.

As large companies are nowadays operating more and more computers with Linux, the function of Linux system engineers is on the rise.
The Linux System Engineer is an essential link within companies that ensures the proper functioning of a Linux network. The engineer also helps coordinate the IT team, optimizes network operations, and ensures communication between the various computer systems.


Discover more about the Linux Systems Engineers skills and expertise.


Cloud IT infrastructure

Cloud IT infrastructure, components and professions profiles

To go on, as the name itself suggests, cloud computing IT infrastructure refers to the components and resources required for cloud computing.

End users can, therefore, access the infrastructure via the internet, with the possibility of using computing resources without on-site installation, through virtualization.

To explain, virtualization links physical servers managed by a service provider in one or more geographical locations. It then classifies and abstracts resources, such as storage, to make them accessible to users virtually anywhere there is an internet connection.

It is also possible to create a private cloud using dedicated resources, or a public cloud by ‘renting’ the cloud infrastructure from a cloud provider.

Since cloud infrastructure is often public, it is usually referred to as a public cloud.

In addition, by integrating portability, orchestration, and workload management across multiple clouds at various levels, it is also possible to create a hybrid cloud.

Hyperconverged IT infrastructure

Hyperconverged IT infrastructure, components and professions profiles

At last, a hyper-converged IT infrastructure enables managing from a single interface computing, networking, and storage resources.

Moreover, software processing together with data storage allows managing the most innovative workloads with scalable architectures on industry-standard hardware.


IT infrastructure job profile: SRE Engineer.

As more organizations are embracing cloud computing and the demand for digital services increases, site reliability engineering (SRE) practices have become imperative. These practices help organizations meet service level agreements (SLAs) for availability, performance, user experience, and business KPIs


Discover more about the Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) functions.


IT infrastructure components and job profiles: best practices

IT infrastructure, components and professions profiles

After having discussed about IT infrastructure components, their functions and some of the IT infrastructure job profiles, it is time to talk about best practices.

To clarify, for good and effective IT infrastructure management, it is essential to follow some basic best practices. That is to say, these practices ensure a comprehensive view of all aspects to consider for the successful management of the IT infrastructure.

  • Gathering knowledge
  • Creating standards built on that knowledge
  • Implementing standards with consistency
  • Maintaining consistency during change management
  • Documenting heavily

Gathering knowledge

First of all, relevance and authority are the two keywords to keep in mind when gathering knowledge. Too little information can lead to missing critical configurations, while too much information can cripple you, balance is the answer.

At this stage, it is crucial to choose where to focus with the organization’s needs in mind. Therefore, the more relevant the better, so as not to waste time with useless and endless documents. And to make sure you gather the right information, check the sources.


Also read our Cybersecurity Expert job description


Creating standards built on that knowledge

Once you define the organization’s needs and gather all the information you need to implement configurations, make them standards. But never forget to update these standards as the organization evolves over the years. Examples of this best practice are increasing security standards, keep clarifying the configurations, upgrading older commands, etc.


IT infrastructure job profile: SOC Analyst.

The role of the SOC (Security Operation Centre) analyst is to monitor a company’s computer systems. He or she must detect all suspicious and malicious activities on computer networks, whether they come from inside or outside.

SOC Analyst: the job


Implementing standards with consistency

Certainly, having clean and consistent configurations is extremely important for an engineer. With systems such as the Cisco CLI, for example, it can take some time to understand the intentions of the code. Thus, the labeling of things, the use of observations when necessary, and the use of descriptions with relevant information facilitate the work of technicians during problem-solving. By switching from one device to another and all having the same descriptions and the same names, one feels more natural and things make sense.

Maintaining consistency during change management

Change management processes can sometimes seem overwhelming to IT staff, but they can be very useful when used for peer review of the proposed configuration, implementation on applicable devices, and updating documentation to ensure that the work is done from top to bottom.

Therefore, maintaining consistency in changing times is key to facilitating the transaction and ensuring that the work is done without the loss of essential organizational information.


You can also read : Programming VS Web development : What’s the difference?


Documenting heavily

It is somehow common that documentation is an aspect in which internal IT departments are usually somewhat deficient. Even if it feels like you are writing the documentation all for yourself, as no one will ever read it, your documentation is actually your business card. Though, it is important that it is clear and easy to understand.

To sum up, the purpose of the IT infrastructure is to make business possible and this is best done with components that are configured, managed, and maintained cleanly and consistently, following best practices honed with experience and documented clearly and comprehensively.


IT infrastructure job profile: RPA Consultant.

A rapidly expanding technology, RPA (Robotic Process Automation) promotes increased productivity through the automation of business processes. The key: eliminating tedious tasks, streamlining operations, and reducing costs.

In this job descriptions, you will discover the RPA Consultant and the Robotics Engineer missions, salary, and skills. A highly sought-after profile in today’s working world, especially in digital service companies.


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