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In this digital age, information technology jobs, such as system administrator jobs, are becoming more and more in demand. Companies nowadays rely on computer systems for their day-to-day operation.
This is why computers have become essential tools for many aspects of a business, including research, communication, media production, data storage and tracking, product development, and human resources, among other things.
If you’re looking for work in this field, then check out the job listing below. Additionally, continue reading to find out all you need to know about this occupation:
What Exactly Does a Systems Administrator Do?
It is part of a system administrator’s responsibility to ensure the seamless operation of an organization’s computer networks and systems. Their job is to install, organize, and provide support to the various computer systems in an organization, including intranets, LANs (local area networks), network segments, WANs (wide area networks), and other data communication networks.
Systems Administrator Job Description
Server Health Assessment and Monitoring: This allows the system administrator to have a comprehensive overview of the performance and status of a company’s individual servers. This also entails monitoring performance data, server room environment, and hardware parameters.
Backup and Disaster Recovery: It is a crucial part of systems administrator jobs to back up data and plan disaster recovery that coincides with the priorities of their client to minimize downtimes. Unplanned downtimes can quickly lead to loss of revenue. Additionally, it can affect customer interactions, lessen employee productivity, and even interrupt business processes.
Application Compatibility: Adding to the list of system administrator jobs description is testing of upgraded or new applications to ensure that it’s compatible with different environments, such as web browsers, hardware platforms, databases, operating systems, mobile devices, networks, and users. This can be done either manually or with the help of automation tools.
Server Hardening: Perhaps one of the most crucial responsibilities in a network systems administrator job is boosting the server’s security to prevent cyberattacks. They do this by reducing the server’s attack surface, which are points where a potential attacker might access the server, or worse, damage it. Doing this leaves an attacker with lesser opportunities to undermine the server.
Using a SysLog Server: Jobs in system administration also entail the proper use of a Syslog server to keeps records of application logs and system logs, so when there are issues or intrusions, it will be a little bit easier to check real-time and previous logs in order to assess the problem and resolve it accordingly.
Automation: Various system administrator duties and tasks have to be performed during specific times, which is why a sysadmin would need to automate and schedule certain tasks to be done at a scheduled time by using external tools and writing scripts. Aside from timely execution, automation provides additional benefits in system administrator jobs, such as freeing up the workload and preventing or decreasing human errors.
Documentation: Keeping an accurate record of the organization’s physical and virtual servers and licenses is a vital part of systems administrator jobs. Documentation aids in the identification of the hardware, software, or appliance that may be causing issues.
These are only some of the many duties and responsibilities of a system administrator. They have a wider job scope, which is why they are expected to be knowledgeable and experienced in a wide array of technologies and programs.
Types of System Administrator Jobs
Network Systems Administrator
Computer networks are vital for an organization’s daily operations to run smoothly, which makes the role of a network systems administrator relatively crucial. They install, organize, and support the network infrastructure of an organization, such as routers and switches.
Network Systems Administrator Job Description:
Install network software and hardware based on an organization’s needs.
Make necessary repairs and upgrades to ensure that the network infrastructure operates seamlessly.
Assess and improve system or network performance.
Maintain computer and network security.
Provide training to users on how to use software and hardware properly.
Network Systems Administrator Job Requirements:
In order to qualify, one has to have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as information technology or computer science.
Of course, some employers may only require an Associate’s degree or certifications for network systems administrator jobs, especially if you have prior relevant experience, but having a Bachelor’s degree is going to help you get ahead of the competition.
Network Systems Administrator Salary:
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for network and computer systems administrator jobs as of May 2019 is $83,510.
Organizations need proper storage of their data, whether it’s financial information or shipping records of products, to prevent interruptions in their daily operation. Such data would also need to be available to authorized users while remaining secure from unauthorized personnel.
Database Administrator Job Description:
The following are two common specialties that database administrators or DBAs have:
System DBAs: These types of DBAs specialize in the technical and physical components of a database. They install patches and upgrades to repair bugs. They usually have a system architecture background.
Application DBAs: This type of system administrator job entails providing support for an organization’s database that is designed for a set of applications or a particular application. They write programs and manage applications that function with the database.
Database Administrator Job Requirements:
It’s typical for a database administrator to have a Bachelor’s degree in related fields, such as computer science and information technology. This is also the typical requirement to land any other system administrator position.
Database Administrator Salary:
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics states that as of May 2019, the median annual salary for database administrators was $93,750.
Security Systems Administrator
Hiring a security systems administrator is the first step to strengthening security procedures in an organization’s computer network. This also involves detecting weaknesses that can make the network susceptible to cyberattacks or any suspicious activity from internal or external sources.
Security Systems Administrator Job Description:
Conduct vulnerability tests
Keep an eye for suspicious activity
Configure and repair security tools (antivirus, firewalls, and others)
Establish and implement network security requirements and policies
Train employees in security procedures
Security Systems Administrator Job Requirements:
Like sysadmin jobs, most employers prefer hiring a security systems administrator with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, but an associate’s degree might also be acceptable.
It’s important to note that in order to keep networks secure, systems security administrator jobs entail staying abreast of the latest technology, so continued education is vital.
Security Systems Administrator Salary:
The average annual salary in the United States as of 2020 for security systems administrator jobs is $81,230.
Senior Systems Administrator
If you’re an experienced systems administrator looking to move up the career ladder, then perhaps applying for a senior position is the right step for you to increase your earnings and take on more responsibilities.
Senior Systems Administrator Job Description:
Manage a team to design and implement an organization’s network solutions
Assess network issues and come up with viable solutions
Manage integration of new software
Initiate and implement best practices for the upkeep of computer systems
Spearhead virtualization efforts
Generate performance reports
Senior Systems Administrator Job Requirements:
Pursuing this position typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as information systems, computer science, or computer engineering. Some employers might prefer candidates with a master’s degree. However, a bachelor’s degree holder with years of experience would be more favorable in senior systems administrator jobs. Getting certified in reputable agencies also greatly increases your marketability.
Senior Systems Administrator Salary:
As of July 21, 2020, the average yearly salary in the United States for senior systems administrators is $100,957.
Work Environment
A huge percentage of systems administrators work in computer systems design companies and other related industries. However, since computer networks are so widely used in businesses, systems and network administrator jobs can also mean working in government offices, financial firms, and hospitals.
Being a systems administrator also requires you to work closely with other IT workers, including database administrators, customer support specialists, computer and information systems managers, and computer network architects.
In some cases, especially in smaller organizations, the role of a systems administrator might include that of a database administrator, technical support, or network administrator.
Work Schedules
System admin jobs usually have a 40-hour or full-time workweek. However, they may be asked to work overtime, possibly during weekends, to ensure that the organization’s networks and systems are continuously operating seamlessly.
Like a lot of white-collar jobs, they also typically spend prolonged periods sitting in front of a computer in a typical office or in the case of remote systems administrator jobs, in a home office.
Flexible schedules may be given as an option to sysadmins working from home to give them more control of their time and to increase work efficiency, especially when they’re frequently on call.
How to Get a System Administrator Job
In a nutshell, the steps to becoming a systems administrator include pursuing relevant education, obtaining experience in an entry-level and relevant field, getting certified by reliable agencies, updating your resume, and lastly, applying for jobs!
Essential Skills
Technical skills
To advance in a systems administrator career, technical skills are essential to the proper execution of tasks. This includes knowing how to install and support network and computer systems, how to back up data and recover it in case of disasters, and other critical systems administrator job responsibilities.
Analytical skills
This is the ability to dissect collected information to draw conclusions and make informed decisions. Computer systems and networks also have to be assessed to ensure that they are running seamlessly. Moreover, systems admin jobs require you to be able to foresee additional requirements as the needs of the company change.
Communication skills
Like most jobs, communication skills, both written and verbal, are important to succeed in systems administration. Your line of communication with non-IT personnel has to be open and efficient for proper identification of issues and providing timely solutions. Some jobs in system admin even require you to train employees on the proper usage of software and applications.
Problem-solving skills
Systems administrators have to be quick on their feet with solving bugs and issues, especially since this is a huge part of their job. Solving issues would also have to be done in a timely manner to prevent potential loss of revenue.
Multi-tasking skills
It is typical in system administration jobs to work on multiple tasks or fix multiple problems at a time, so the ability to easily transition between tasks is crucial to their role.
Education
Some employers will only require candidates to have an associate’s degree or relevant certifications, especially if you have several years of relevant experience and are applying for entry-level system administrator jobs.
However, like any white-collar job, most employers will look for a candidate who has a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as information or computer science, especially if you want to work for a larger company.
A degree in computer or electrical engineering is also acceptable since computer systems administrator job description includes handling computer hardware and equipment. These degrees often include classes in networking, systems design, or computer programming.
Lastly, some organizations prefer systems administrators with a master’s degree, especially for senior sys admin jobs.
Technology is dynamic, so a systems administrator may have to take courses, attend conferences, and get certifications to keep themselves updated on the latest technologies.
Certifications for Every Systems Administrator
The following certifications will help increase your earning potential, learn new skills, and stay updated on the latest technology in computer systems administrator jobs. A plethora of vendor-neutral and vendor-specific certifications are available out there, but getting these certifications would be a good place to start.
The average annual pay for LPIC-2 certified network and systems administrator jobs is $76,000.
Requirements: Earn an LPIC-1 Linux Administrator certification.
Exam Fees: $200
Systems Administrator Career Path
If you’ve had many years of experience in systems administration and you’re wondering what to do next, here are some job options for you to consider to move up in your career ladder.
Senior Systems Administrator Moving up to a senior role is a great way to increase your responsibilities while increasing your pay. You can also get certified to gain specialized skills. For example, getting Linux-certified will help you get ahead when applying for senior Linux systems administrator jobs. Senior systems administrators earn an average annual income of $100,957.
Computer Network Architect In this role, you’ll mainly be planning and building computer networks rather than maintaining and running them. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics states that computer network architects are paid a median salary of $112,690 per year.
Information Security Analysts Most businesses use technology and are, therefore, always looking for innovative ways to prevent security breaches, which is what this role is about. If you’ve had some experience in IT systems administrator jobs or other related positions, then you may want to move up as an information security analyst. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay is $99,730.
System Administrator Jobs Salary
The pay for systems administrators varies across industries. Other factors include experience and educational background. However, to give you a clearer picture of what the pay looks like, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that as of May 2019, the median yearly salary for a network and computer systems administrator job is $83,510.
The bottom 10% earn a yearly salary of below $52,370, while the top 10% earn upward of $132,520. Additionally, those who work in finance and insurance, such as financial systems administrator jobs, earn a median yearly salary of $89,420, while those who work in the educational sector, whether it’s private, state, or local, earned a median yearly salary of $73,640.
Furthermore, the state you’re working in would also affect your salary. With that in mind, the average yearly salary of a systems admin job in New York is $80,360, while those working in North Carolina earn an average of $58,936 per year.
Job Outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that systems administration jobs are going to increase by at least 5% by 2028. Information technology employees are going to be more in demand as more businesses and organizations devote their resources to faster and newer networks and technology. The increased use of IT in the healthcare industry is also an additional factor in this job growth.
Additionally, the use of cloud services by small businesses that lack an IT department will result in an increase in demand for network administrators in computer systems design and other related industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is system admin a good career?
There are definitely good and bad sides to being a systems administrator, but what job doesn’t have them?
Although it is such a demanding job, there is great earning potential and many career advancement opportunities.
Additionally, the outlook for network administrator jobs is looking good. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a 5% growth for the next eight years.
There is concern that some employers provide little to no training to sysadmins. However, you have the option to invest in yourself and pay for training and certifications to advance your knowledge, especially given the dynamic nature of the job.
How long does it take to become a system administrator?
When thinking about the average time it takes to become a systems administrator, we have to consider the qualifications and requirements that employers typically look for in a sysadmin.
Most employers would require a bachelor’s degree for an IT administrator job. However, some have been employed with only an associate’s degree or undergraduate certificate.
There are also employers, especially larger companies and organizations, who want systems administrators with at least three years of experience. Take this into consideration when deciding if systems administration is the career path you want to take.
Do you need a degree to be a system administrator?
As is customary with any other white-collar job, most companies would require a relevant Bachelor’s degree for system administrators. Relevant degrees, including information technology, management information systems, and computer science, will help you get ahead of the competition.
However, it is not impossible to land a systems administrator job without a Bachelor’s degree. Sometimes, employers will hire someone with a two-year associate degree in a relevant field, especially if they have several years of experience. And if you really want to boost your marketability, getting certified is a step in the right direction.
How much does an entry-level system administrator make?
There are a lot of related jobs that can someday land you a job in system administration. Such jobs include customer support specialist, technical support specialist, help-desk technician, and junior IT systems administrator jobs.
Ideally, you can work in any of these roles after you earn either an associate’s degree or an undergraduate certificate in a relevant field. However, keep in mind that for these jobs, especially for system administrator jobs, employers might prefer applicants with a bachelor’s degree.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, customer support specialists receive a median annual salary of $54,760. Additionally, entry-level systems administrator jobs pay an average annual salary of $39,345.
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