r/DatabaseAdministators • • 7h ago

Help me choose domain dba or sde

2 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I have around 2 years of experience in full-stack development, with a stronger focus on backend development, and I currently work at a Big 4 company.

Initially, I worked on a project involving Node.js, React, and AWS. However, after my first client assignment, my company moved me to the DBA domain, where I am currently working with PostgreSQL EDB for an Indian bank in rotational shifts.

It has been around 3 months since I transitioned to this role, and I am still unsure whether this is the right career path for me.

Honestly, I never planned to become a DBA. During my internships, I worked with Java and C#, and later I gained experience with Node.js and React. I always envisioned my career in software development, particularly backend development, but I have never seriously considered database administration as a career.

My current experience can be summarized as:

Around 2 years in software development.

Around 5 months in DBA, and counting.

I am confused about which direction I should take. I don't have much knowledge about the long-term career prospects of a DBA, how this transition might affect my future opportunities, or how rotational shifts could impact my personal life in the long run.

Should I request a release from my current client and try to return to software development, or should I give the DBA domain more time and explore its career opportunities?

I don't want to make a decision that I might regret a few years down the line, especially when I have already invested 2 years in software development.

I'd really appreciate advice from people who have experience in software development, database administration, or both.