Re: Question

Liberty Valance wrote:
> I work for a large well know international company that uses many
> different databases developed in oracle. We've had openings in the
> past year 3 times for database administrators that have a BS in Data
> Processing and a strong knowledge of Oracle. I've have a working
> knowledge of VB, MS Access, C & C++ FrontPage etc. but no knowledge of
> Oracle. Can someone suggest the fastest method or way I can learn
> Oracle.
>
> In the past I've simply bought the software and learned that way but
> I'm under the impression that oracle is very expensive and that I
> need a large server to run it. Can I run oracle on a PC? Can anyone
> point me in the right direction as to how to start acquiring more
> knowledge for maybe apply for this job in the future if it comes open
> again?
> Many Thanks
> Lib

While I agree that the "sink or swim" method of learning to administer is probably the worst way, sometimes in a large organization you have to grab the job, then learn it.

I'd say download enterprise edition to your pc, and go through the Backup Concepts and RMAN documentation and learn all the ways you can fix things that go wrong, like deleting random files. Then watch for some newbie OCP to screw up a production restore. Then you can tell the f/hiring manager about how you've already learned this install and backup stuff on your own, what you would have done different, and with a bit of training be far ahead of the person they mistakenly hired, since you also know about the business.

Cynical? Sure. But if your organization uses everything _but_ PL/SQL, you can bootstrap yourself into a DBA job. Of course, you should find out _why_ your organization has needed 3 new DBA's, some places have unrealistic expectations. Peruse the job ads, look for code words like "multitask" and "good communication skills," and imagine the worst Dilbert-style reasons for those words. Other places come to their senses after one leaves and realize they need 3 to replace him, good opportunities there if they realize it takes months for someone to come up to speed.

jg

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