Data Administrator

Job Overview

The Data Administrator plays a critical role in managing and maintaining the integrity, security, and accessibility of organizational data within IT and operations environments. This position involves overseeing data storage, ensuring compliance with data governance policies, and collaborating closely with IT teams, data analysts, and operational staff to support data-driven decision-making. The role requires proficiency in database management systems, data quality assurance, and the implementation of data protection measures aligned with industry standards and regulatory requirements. The Data Administrator ensures seamless data flow across platforms, supports system upgrades, and troubleshoots data-related issues to optimize operational efficiency and support business objectives.

Organizational Impact

The Data Administrator plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and accessibility of organizational data, which is foundational to informed decision-making and operational efficiency. By managing data systems and supporting data governance initiatives, this role enables seamless data flow across departments, enhances reporting capabilities, and supports compliance with industry regulations. In the operations and IT sectors, the Data Administrator’s work directly contributes to optimizing business processes, reducing errors, and facilitating strategic planning, thereby driving overall organizational success and competitive advantage.

Key Systems

A Data Administrator typically works with database management systems such as SQL Server, Oracle, or MySQL, alongside data integration tools like Informatica or Talend. They often utilize enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems such as SAP or Microsoft Dynamics to manage operational data. Additionally, proficiency with data visualization and reporting tools like Tableau or Power BI is common. For task and project management, systems like Jira or Microsoft Project may be used. Data governance and quality tools, as well as cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure, are also frequently part of the technology stack in this role.

Inputs

A Data Administrator typically receives a variety of inputs including raw data files, database queries, system-generated reports, user requests for data access or modifications, and compliance documentation. These inputs often arrive through email communications, ticketing systems, direct database interfaces, and collaboration platforms. Additionally, the role involves handling data from multiple IT systems and operational sources, requiring the ability to interpret structured and unstructured data formats. Inputs may also include audit logs, data quality reports, and feedback from cross-functional teams such as IT support, operations, and compliance departments.

Outputs

The outputs of a Data Administrator’s work include accurately maintained and updated databases, data integrity reports, access control logs, and documentation of data management procedures. They produce data extracts and summaries tailored to the needs of business analysts, IT teams, and operational managers. Outputs are typically delivered via secure database systems, internal dashboards, email reports, and collaboration tools. The role also involves generating compliance reports and audit trails to meet regulatory standards. Timely and precise communication of data status and issues to stakeholders is essential, ensuring data availability and reliability across the organization.

Activities

- Manage and maintain databases to ensure data integrity, accuracy, and security.

- Perform regular data backups and recovery operations.

- Monitor database performance and implement necessary optimizations.

- Develop and enforce data management policies and procedures.

- Collaborate with IT and operations teams to support data-related projects and initiatives.

- Conduct data quality audits and resolve discrepancies.

- Assist in the design and implementation of data storage solutions.

- Generate reports and provide data insights to support business decision-making.

- Ensure compliance with relevant data protection regulations and company standards.

- Provide technical support and training to end-users on database systems and tools.

Recommended Items

- Comprehensive training on company-specific database management systems (e.g., SQL Server, Oracle).

- Access to documented data governance policies and procedures.

- Templates for data entry, validation, and reporting.

- Checklists for routine database maintenance and backup processes.

- Quality assurance standards for data accuracy and security.

- User manuals and troubleshooting guides for database tools.

- Access to a knowledge base or internal wiki for common issues and best practices.

- Regular updates on regulatory compliance requirements related to data management.

Content Example

- Data entry records and updates within enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems

- Database maintenance logs and audit trails

- Data quality reports and validation checklists

- User access and permissions documentation

- Backup and recovery procedure documentation

- Compliance and regulatory data submission files

- Metadata catalogs and data dictionaries

- Incident and resolution reports related to data discrepancies

- System integration mapping documents

- Performance metrics dashboards for data accuracy and timeliness

Sample Event-Driven Tasks

- Responding to data integrity alerts triggered by automated validation tools

- Updating records following receipt of corrected or new data from internal teams or external partners

- Executing data recovery procedures after system outages or data corruption incidents

- Adjusting user access rights upon notification of role changes or security audits

- Coordinating with IT support when database performance issues are detected

- Generating compliance reports in response to regulatory audit requests

- Implementing data migration tasks triggered by system upgrades or software deployments

- Addressing data discrepancies flagged during routine quality assurance checks

- Responding to requests for data extracts or reports from business units for decision-making

- Monitoring and acting on notifications of failed data backups or synchronization errors

Sample Scheduled Tasks

- Perform daily data backups and verify integrity to ensure data security and availability.

- Conduct weekly audits of database entries to maintain accuracy and compliance with data governance policies.

- Generate and distribute monthly data quality and usage reports to relevant stakeholders.

- Schedule and execute routine updates and patches on database management systems to maintain optimal performance.

- Review and update user access permissions on a quarterly basis to comply with IT security standards.

- Coordinate with IT and operations teams to monitor system performance and resolve scheduled maintenance issues.

Sample Infill Tasks

- Develop and document standard operating procedures for data entry and management to improve consistency.

- Participate in training sessions on new data management tools and software updates to enhance technical skills.

- Assist in the design and testing of data validation rules to improve data quality controls.

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process automation and efficiency improvements.

- Conduct research on emerging data management technologies and best practices relevant to the organization’s needs.

- Support data migration projects by preparing datasets and validating transferred information for accuracy.