The role of the Oracle Database Administrator (DBA) is undergoing a transformation, driven by shifts in technology, automation, and business needs.
While the demand for traditional DBA tasks is evolving, the need for skilled Oracle professionals remains strong—just with a different skillset.
If you’re an Oracle DBA, or aspiring to become one, here’s what you need to know to stay ahead…
1. Cloud is King
On-prem databases are no longer the default. Businesses are migrating to cloud platforms like Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), AWS, and Azure, and they need DBAs who can handle cloud migrations, multi-cloud strategies, and database-as-a-service (DBaaS) solutions.
If you haven’t already, now is the time to gain hands-on experience with:
- Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) Database services
- AWS RDS and Azure SQL
- Hybrid cloud and multi-cloud database strategies
Organisations want DBAs who can manage cloud-based environments efficiently, ensuring high availability, security, and cost optimisation.
2. Automation is Here—But It’s Not Replacing DBAs
With automation and AI taking over routine DBA tasks (think backups, indexing, and patching), DBAs are being freed up to focus on more strategic work. Rather than eliminating DBA roles, automation is changing what businesses expect from you.
New must-have skills include:
- Performance tuning in automated environments
- Scripting and Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, Ansible)
- Database security and compliance
- AI-driven database monitoring tools
3. Strategic Business Focus
Gone are the days when DBAs were just tech troubleshooters. Now, you’re expected to align database strategies with business objectives. This means working closely with DevOps teams, architects, and leadership to ensure data is optimised for analytics, performance, and scalability.
To stand out, focus on:
- Understanding business intelligence and analytics
- Learning data governance and compliance (GDPR, SOC2, HIPAA)
- Supporting data-driven decision-making with optimised database architectures
4. Salaries Are Holding Strong
While the number of traditional DBA job postings has decreased, salaries remain competitive. The median salary for Oracle DBAs in the UK is around £60,000, with senior-level professionals earning up to £180,000.
In the US, experienced Oracle DBAs can earn well over $150,000 annually, particularly those with cloud expertise.
Specialising in cloud integration, high availability, and performance optimisation will keep you in high demand and help you command higher salaries.
5. Security is a Huge Deal
Data breaches and cyber threats are a constant concern, making database security a critical skill for Oracle DBAs. Companies need professionals who can secure cloud-based databases, enforce encryption, and manage access controls.
To stay ahead, get familiar with:
- Oracle Database Vault and Transparent Data Encryption (TDE)
- Identity and Access Management (IAM)
- Database activity monitoring and security audits
6. Industry Growth & Global Expansion
Oracle is expanding its cloud infrastructure at a rapid pace, with 101 cloud regions online and 40 more planned. This means continued demand for Oracle DBAs who can help organisations migrate, optimise, and secure their databases in these cloud regions.
The Takeaway
The Oracle DBA role isn’t disappearing—it’s evolving. The most successful DBAs are the ones who adapt by developing cloud expertise, embracing automation, and shifting to a more strategic, business-focused mindset. If you want to future-proof your career, now is the time to upskill in cloud platforms, automation, security, and performance tuning.
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Focus on Fusion are 100% dedicated to recruitment in the Oracle ecosystem, so we've got the expert network and knowledge you need to stay ahead in the Oracle job market. Upload your CV today, and we’ll help you fill your skills gaps so that you can achieve your career goals.
