PL/SQL is a procedure based programming language extension for the database language, Structured Query Language or SQL, used by the Oracle Database Engine. In effect it combines database languages and programming languages helping provide optimized, secure and robust solutions. It acts as a layer close to the database on which Oracle Applications are built.
Oracle Developers are some of the most sought after IT employees, but how can they increase their salary?
Diversify your Database Engine Knowledge
Experience or knowledge of other database engines such as MySQL, SQL Server, NoSQL is valued by employers and employees are compensated accordingly. So it makes sense to continually keep updating yourself on database engines other than Oracle.
Diversify Your Programming Skills
Acquiring multi- faceted development skills are the reality of today’s IT world. It is imperative to have some front-end and server programming skills in addition to database programming skills Eg. XML, Java, JavaScript, C# and Web Development technologies. Companies expect employees to take care of situations where programming boundaries blur. Employees who are able to do so are preferred or are seen as indispensable by companies. This has a positive effect on their appraisal and subsequent salary revisions or initial job offer.
Transforming into a DBA
A PL/SQL developer can extend his skills to become a professional database developer or a DBA in addition to performing assigned PL/SQL tasks .This includes creating and maintaining database users, roles, permissions etc. This will increase their value in the job market and fetch higher salaries.
Learn New Programming Paradigms
Since PL/SQL is a procedural language it is worthwhile investing time and money learning Object Oriented Programming to stay abreast with the latest programming trends. This helps you create truly extensible and reusable software which is a valuable asset in an IT professional increasing their employee value and ultimately their pay package.
Certifications – A Valuable Asset
Certifications can help increase your value as a professional in an organization. There are a number of certifications available for PL/SQL developers which will help highlight their expertise and technical prowess and at the same time will help fetch a better salary. Many employers are willing to pay more to retain certified PL/SQL developers as they recognise not only their expertise but also their interest and ability to stay up-to-date with latest technologies. Such employees are valuable assets to any organization. They see enormous potential in employees who have put in hard work to excel in their chosen technology. They ensure that such employees are happy with the package that the company offers them.
Some courses you could take:
Diploma in Oracle PL/SQL Programming - Evening Course - Dublin City Centre
Postgraduate Diploma in Oracle Programming via Online Distance Learning
Diploma in Oracle Programming via Online Distance Learning
A Well Laid out Career Path
While ‘PL/SQL developer’ is a specialization it cannot be called a career path which yields high returns on its own. PL/SQL Developers constantly need to evolve and leverage their skills for a more stable and rewarding career. Data warehousing (via the Oracle database design and development route ), Oracle financials developer , Oracle Business Intelligence, DBA building enterprise databases, Data Analyst or simply a database developer can be some career paths that a PL/SQL Developer can adopt to increase their employee worth and subsequently salary.
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