Highest-Paying Systems Administrator Jobs [2023]

Research Summary. Using a combination of public government and company data as well as data gathered from thousands of job postings, the Zippia data team has created average salary estimates for jobs across the US. Using that data set, the team has identified the types of systems administrators that are the highest paid based on their average annual salaries.

Here is a summary of our findings for the highest-paying types of systems administrators:

• Senior Unix Systems Administrator is the highest-paid type of systems administrator with an average salary of $116,752 and an average hourly rate of $56.13.

• The second highest-paying type of systems administrator is systems integrator, with an average salary of $102,867.

• The average systems administrator salary is $77,156 per year, and the average hourly pay is $37.09.

Table Of Contents: Background | Table | Methodology | FAQs

Background

Choosing a career path can be difficult, and while pay shouldn’t be the only thing you consider in your decision, it is a significant factor. So if you’d like to work as a systems administrator, it helps to have an idea of what the highest-paid types of systems administrators are so that you can plan your career progression.

Here are the top salaries for different types of systems administrators:

1. Senior Unix Systems Administrator

   Average Salary: $116,752

2. Systems Integrator

   Average Salary: $102,867

   In the information technology (IT) industry, a systems integrator specializes in designing and developing computing systems using a variety of software, hardware, and other subsystems. To carry out their duties, they must communicate with clients to identify their IT needs and preferences, perform research and analysis to determine the ideal IT practices, troubleshoot issues, liaise with subsystem vendors, and develop strategies to optimize operations. Moreover, a systems integrator typically works with a team of IT specialists and engineers, requiring an active communication line for a smooth and efficient workflow.

3. Systems Administrator Lead

   Average Salary: $99,956

   A systems administrator lead is responsible for planning, designing, and implementing procedures for critical enterprise systems. Typical duties of systems administrators include managing the day-to-day operations of a company’s computer and network systems, developing new application and system implementation plans, and establishing guidelines for installing and managing the organization’s computer operating systems. In addition, you are expected to ensure the security of computer systems by preventing unauthorized use, user abuse, and acts of nature.

4. Senior System Administrator

   Average Salary: $98,146

   A senior system administrator specializes in overseeing the computer system operations in an organization. Their responsibilities primarily revolve around monitoring the performance of all software and hardware, installing servers, configuring systems, and making sure every technical aspect is running smoothly. Should there be any issues, they must take charge of troubleshooting and providing solutions. As someone with more experience, a senior system administrator leads and evaluates the performances of fellow skilled professionals in the department, all while adhering to the company’s policies and regulations.

5. Senior Network Administrator

   Average Salary: $89,169

   Senior Network Administrators provide system and network solutions for their organizations. They supervise the functioning of networking equipment and follow strict maintenance standards.

Below is a full table of the average pay for various systems administrator that pay the most followed by a more detailed explanation of our methodology.

Highest-Paying Types Of Systems Administrators

Methodology

Zippia uses publicly published information from government sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Foreign Labor Certification Data Center (FLC), and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to create its salary estimates.

Our data science team also checks job postings and company-published resources for additional up-to-date salary information for systems administrators.

Once they’ve gathered the data, the team calculates a weighted average for each job title they’re estimating a salary for. For more details on our salary estimates, you can read the detailed methodology.

Highest-Paying Types Of Systems Administrator Jobs FAQs

1. What is the highest-paid systems administrator job?

   The highest-paid systems administrator job is a senior unix systems administrator. Senior Unix Systems Administrators earn an average salary of $116,752, which is $ 56.13 hourly.

2. What is a good salary for a systems administrator?

   A good salary for a systems administrator is $77,156 or more. The average systems administrator salary is $77,156, so those making at least $77,156 are earning above-average paychecks.

   Keep in mind, however, that the average systems administrator salary does fluctuate based on location, as companies will adjust their pay scales based on the cost of living in that area. Research what the average salary is in your area for someone of your expertise and experience level to get a more accurate view on how well you’re being paid.

   In addition, if you’re just starting your career as a systems administrator, the average entry level salary is $0, so don’t base your opinion of your salary on the $77,156 average, as this includes all systems administrators of all skill and experience levels.

3. Do Systems Administrator jobs pay well?

   Yes, systems administrator jobs pay well. As in any industry, some systems administrator jobs pay better than others, but the average systems administrator salary of $77,156 is times the average national salary of about $44,225 per year.

   In addition to this, many systems administrator jobs have high earning potential, with the top 10% of systems administrators earning $0 a year on average.

   Systems Administrators’ salaries will fluctuate based on their experience level, industry, and location, so pay attention to these factors when you’re looking for a job as a systems administrator. Do your research on the going rate for a systems administrator in your area with your expertise, and don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary based on that information.

4. Where do systems administrators get paid the most?

   Systems Administrators get paid the most in Vermont. In Vermont, systems administrators earn an average annual salary of $83,778 and an average hourly wage of $40.28.

   Following VT, the states with the highest-paid systems administrators are Washington, Oregon, and New Hampshire, with average annual salaries of $83,947, $80,357, and $77,254 respectively.

   The cities with the highest-paid systems administrator salaries are:

   1. San Francisco, CA – $95,429

   2. Seattle, WA – $84,712

   3. Boston, MA – $81,501

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.