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What is a computer systems administrator and how to become one
A Computer Systems Administrator maintains the regular operation of an organization's computer networks. They resolve bugs within a company's computer hardware and software and install and configure software, hardware, and networks, monitor system performance, and troubleshoot issues and make required updates to all devices and software to ensure its network's safety.
Typically, you need to possess a bachelor's degree in computer science to become a computer system administrator. You must have skills in Problem-Solving and administration, networking, clouding, security, monitoring, and years of experience.
The graduates who gravitate to this field end up laying claim to annual earnings at $83,510. The current median pay for a computer system administrator ranges from $64,547 to $106,310 in the U.S. However, this figure can vary significantly depending upon your experience and skills.
What general advice would you give to a computer systems administrator?
Mario Bkassiny Ph.D.
Associate Professor, SUNY Oswego
Avg. Salary $72,247
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 5%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.31%
Asian 8.91%
Black or African American 9.00%
Hispanic or Latino 12.69%
Unknown 5.09%
White 64.00%
Genderfemale 17.25%
male 82.75%
Age - 42American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 42Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is good
6.4 - fair
Computer systems administrator career paths
Key steps to become a computer systems administrator
Explore computer systems administrator education requirements
Start to develop specific computer systems administrator skills
Skills Percentages Computer System 11.54% Linux 8.18% Customer Service 5.44% Troubleshoot 4.90% DOD 4.11% Complete relevant computer systems administrator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New computer systems administrators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a computer systems administrator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real computer systems administrator resumes.Gain additional computer systems administrator certifications
More About CertificationsComputer systems administrator certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific computer systems administrator certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for computer systems administrators include Security 5 Certification and Network 5 Certification.
Research computer systems administrator duties and responsibilities
- Create SNP pipeline script in Perl to automate SNP prediction.
- Manage static IP address reservations in the corporate and DHCP in the production network.
- Manage a mix facility of IBM and DEC mainframe computers, VAX super-mini computers and PDP-11 mini computers.
- Design, install, configure and manage Citrix XenApp/XenDesktop environment.
Prepare your computer systems administrator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your computer systems administrator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a computer systems administrator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable computer systems administrator resume templates
Build a professional computer systems administrator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your computer systems administrator resume.
Apply for computer systems administrator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a computer systems administrator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first computer systems administrator job
Are you a computer systems administrator?
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Average computer systems administrator salary
The average computer systems administrator salary in the United States is $72,247 per year or $35 per hour. Computer systems administrator salaries range between $53,000 and $97,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do computer systems administrators rate their job?
Computer systems administrator reviews
There was nothing to like. Everyone was polite an hard workers
I really love technical job which is hands on.
I love the fact that I have self taught myself by trouble shooting issues for fifteen years while working in corrections as the Video court officer with no prior experince or degree
Updated January 8, 2025
