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Job outlook for information systems administrators in the United States
Information systems administrator job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected information systems administrator job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.
About 18,200 new jobs for information systems administrators are projected over the next decade.
Information systems administrator salaries have increased 9% for information systems administrators in the last 5 years.
There are over 289,379 information systems administrators currently employed in the United States.
There are 176,724 active information systems administrator job openings in the US.
The average information systems administrator salary is $79,194.
Are information systems administrator jobs in demand?
Information systems administrator job and salary trends over time
Information systems administrator jobs over time
Information systems administrator job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 289,379 | 0.09% |
| 2020 | 319,614 | 0.10% |
| 2019 | 265,403 | 0.08% |
| 2018 | 148,507 | 0.04% |
| 2017 | 146,609 | 0.04% |
Average information systems administrator salary over time
Information systems administrator salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $79,194 | $38.07 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $76,585 | $36.82 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $74,851 | $35.99 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $73,984 | $35.57 | +1.8% |
| 2021 | $72,707 | $34.96 | +2.4% |
Information systems administrator jobs by state
Most common states for information systems administrators
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 453 | 65% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 3,154 | 37% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,491 | 36% |
| 4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 268 | 36% |
| 5 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 2,118 | 35% |
| 6 | Vermont | 623,657 | 210 | 34% |
| 7 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 240 | 32% |
| 8 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,687 | 30% |
| 9 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 389 | 29% |
| 10 | Delaware | 961,939 | 280 | 29% |
| 11 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 170 | 29% |
| 12 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 300 | 28% |
| 13 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 2,017 | 27% |
| 14 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 233 | 27% |
| 15 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,837 | 26% |
| 16 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,383 | 25% |
| 17 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 1,024 | 25% |
| 18 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 465 | 24% |
| 19 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 712 | 23% |
| 20 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 481 | 23% |
Most common cities for information systems administrators
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bethesda | 1 | 2% | $78,685 |
| 2 | Lombard | 1 | 2% | $76,355 |
| 3 | Tracy | 1 | 1% | $103,326 |
| 4 | Boston | 1 | 0% | $94,449 |
| 5 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $76,506 |
| 6 | Glendale | 1 | 0% | $73,870 |
| 7 | Orlando | 1 | 0% | $65,123 |
| 8 | Phoenix | 1 | 0% | $73,862 |
| 9 | Saint Louis | 1 | 0% | $71,021 |
| 10 | San Francisco | 1 | 0% | $103,778 |
| 11 | Urban Honolulu | 1 | 0% | $68,320 |
Information Systems Administrator job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of information systems administrator experts
Belmont University
Mount St Mary's University
Governors State University
Harding University
Northwood University
Palm Beach State College
University of New Haven
Western Illinois University
University of South Florida
Quinnipiac University
Brigham Young University - Idaho
Albertus Magnus College
Pace University
Tiffin University
Portland State University
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Dr. Tisha Brown-Gaines: Over the next five years, the expanding landscape of Big Data facilitated via Information Systems will continue to play a major role in the structure of how Smart Systems are created and maintained. As a result, having skills that will allow for effectively accessing, modifying, analyzing, storing and securing data is key. The integration of these skills are strengths that will support fields under the umbrella of computer science and data science that expand into machine learning, natural language processing and the Internet of Things (IoT) concepts.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Tisha Brown-Gaines: Colleges and universities try very hard to prepare students for life after graduation. Most students have the required skill sets for their field of study. However, the journey after attaining a degree still can be tricky. Selecting the right field for you is paramount. Information Systems (IS) is a great major. The interdisciplinary aspect of Information Systems (IS) allows graduates to select from numerous opportunities in the field. However, this can be quite overwhelming when students have options to apply to countless jobs. My advice would be to reflect on several assignments, projects or internship experiences during your undergraduate career that captured your interest, made you smile while completing the assignment or even one which began as a random goal and became personal. Start by identifying tasks that made you inquire more about a topic outside of the minimum requirements or a task that was challenging but helped to improve a skill set. Reflecting on these experiences will allow you to effectively navigate what areas to consider and what jobs to apply to in a sea of endless opportunities. Additionally, having the ability to reflect on past accomplishments can motivate and challenge graduates to achieve additional goals as they continue building their careers.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Dr. Tisha Brown-Gaines: Employers will seek candidates that have knowledge on topics such as database systems, networking, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Leveraging the skills acquired from your degree and extending those by acquiring external certifications in these fields will help distinguish you from other candidates. There are many online programs which offer certifications in AWS, Network+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and SAP that are innovative and provide real-world case studies to prepare students to have successful careers.
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Sagar Raina D.Sc.: The transition from the academic world to the industry is a significant milestone and may be overwhelming for the beginners. The first and foremost advice I would give is to be “patient”, be “positive” and be “open to learning”. The field of Information Systems consists of the three important components – people, processes, and technology. The graduates beginning their careers should be able to understand and learn about the “people” working in the organization, the “processes” of the organization and the “technology” used by the organization. To accomplish this, work hard, be open to ask questions to the senior colleagues and keep yourself informed about the new trends in Information Systems sector.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sagar Raina D.Sc.: One of the recommendations would be to get an entry-level industry certification within the Information Systems field. For example, if you are interested in networking, you can go for CompTIA Network+, similarly, if you are interested in cybersecurity, you can go for CompTIA Security+. In addition to your college degree, industry certifications are well recognized by the organizations which can maximize your salary potential when starting a career in Information Systems.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Sagar Raina D.Sc.: Apart from the traditional knowledge expected in the field such coding, computer networking, database design and development, systems analyses, web technologies and development, data analytics; the use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the knowledge about cybersecurity will be considered as the important and prevalent skills sought among the new graduates in the field.
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Rich Manprisio MPM, PMP: Soft skills are necessary always but in regard to technical skills I see AI having a more prevalent role in IT. Graduates will need to look for ways both to leverage AI to help deal with cybersecurity related issues in addition on how AI can aid in complete infrastructure tasks
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rich Manprisio MPM, PMP: Make sure you stay on top of the latest developments with technology. With the fluidity of technology, students today need to have the solid groundwork of a degree in IT but also understand things are continually changing and this need to always be continuing their learning and professional development.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Rich Manprisio MPM, PMP: Certifications help set you apart from other graduates. When just starting out focus on vendor neutral certifications that can show potential employers that you are willing to get the necessary additional certifications that are prevalent in the IT field.
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Dr. Joseph Oluwole: The ability to build and sustain relationships with staff for climate and culture and with parents for family and community relations, all to support the holistic success of students.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Joseph Oluwole: Gain as much leadership experience as possible before taking your first job by volunteering for various roles, opportunities, and committees at your school. Additionally, pursuing a doctorate (whether an Ed.D. or Ph.D.) could be very helpful in maximizing your salary potential.
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Kevin Jetton: Now referred to simply as Information Systems or Enterprise Systems, they are the mission-critical applications that run the enterprise and used to provide information, processes, data and outcomes to all parties such as internal employees, customers and partners/suppliers. Example such systems are all the Financial Applications (Accounts Payable/Receivable, General Ledger, Payroll, Human Resources, Fixed Assets, Budgeting and more), Supply Chain Management, Customer Relationship Management, Manufacturing, Enterprise Resource Management, Order/Service Fulfillment and more. What do individuals do on a daily basis? Depends on the individual's role in the overall process: Unit Managers/Users: Part of a project team to analyze/design/test/train/implement new or modified systems for their unit. IT Professionals: Project Management, Systems Analysts, Enterprise Architects to design solutions, Database and Security experts, Application Developers/Programmers, Testing and Training Teams, Data conversion specialists, Scheduling and Implementation teams.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kevin Jetton: The need for IT skilled employees has never faded despite the right-sizing of many organizations IT staffing components post-pandemic when there was a hiring surge to enhance systems and processes to accommodate more online-only services and offerings. The key is to have a diverse skill-set or base so as to see the bigger picture and able to not only communicate to business users and executives, but to solve problems for the enterprise and deliver them.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Kevin Jetton: The phrase itself has been retired basically and broadened to include ALL information systems - focusing on the mission-critical applications and processes to deliver results to all the parties both inside and outside the organization. Originally, Management Information Systems (MIS) focused ONLY on the Financial/Accounting/Payroll/Manufacturing aspects and was the label for them and the department of IT staffers 1970's-1990's eras. By the year 1995-2000 with the looming Y2K issue, the mission-critical nature of these applications enterprise-wide rose to the forefront of everyone's mind when the realization that the systems may not function properly 1/1/2000 and beyond basically introduced the phrase Enterprise Systems to the world that serve the enterprise internally and externally. Like: The excitement of being involved in such key applications/systems serving the entire organization. Working side-by-side by all units/levels of fellow staff members and partner organizations to identify and solve pain-points within the organization and more that could be solved/automated/enhanced through technology. Helping deliver applications and tools that serve your organization's customers, fellow-employees and partners. Dislike: Long projects that could span months-to-years. Underestimated project schedules that rush through the phases but deliver short-changed results. Pressure to meet deadlines and expectations. Constantly changing/evolving technology and services. Outsourcing to non-employees outside the organization perhaps globally. Being on-call 24x7 to handle and resolve system outages and downtime/failures.
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Dr. Joe Faith: Skills involving how to properly use AI and AI-enabled tools will be big. We've already seen huge changes since November of 2022. I only think the life cycle for these products will continue to get shorter. It's not AI that you need to worry about displacing you from your job. It's a smart human that knows how to use AI. I think that, for IS professionals specifically, you need to focus not only on hard skills, but soft skills as well. Many individuals can either communicate well or program well but not many can do both. There is a niche there that needs to be filled.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Joe Faith: One of the major things is either having more education or certifications to help with inflating your initial salary. Besides that, I would say that the industry and location you move to will have a large hand to play in terms of the salary you get. You always need to balance the cost of living though, if you're focusing more on location as your proxy. The types of jobs you can get in IS are so varied that it can make a huge difference in terms of earning potential right off the bat. For example, if you were to go into software development, data analytics, project management, or cybersecurity after getting your IS degree (which we've had many students do), then you would definitely be earning more than if you took an entry level support technician role (think help desk) for a company. I always try to talk with my advisees about this subject, so that they can decide what path is best for them. Sometimes, students aim lower than they necessarily have to, and that can hurt their initial salary.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Dr. Joe Faith: I think the best general advice would be to not be scared to take a risk on yourself. There are a lot of jobs out there that people are oftentimes afraid to apply for. This can be for several factors but one of the main ones I hear is that they don't feel like they are qualified enough. I can't tell you how many times I've had students that got a job they were slightly underqualified for because they were smart, had drive, and were a great culture fit for the firm in question. Along with that, I would say that certifications can help land your first gig. After a while, in many cases, experience will be more important. But, a cert can be just the thing to get you 'over the top' and land that first job after college.
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Jasser Jasser: Creativity is paramount, whether you're part of an established company, a nonprofit, or kickstarting your venture. Challenge conventional thinking and utilize cutting-edge AI tools to stay ahead. Genuine creativity stems from a deep understanding of the latest trends and technologies. Remain vigilant for new breakthroughs, immerse yourself in tech-centric literature, and constantly ponder how these advancements can elevate your career and amplify your creative output. Additionally, cultivate a robust professional network and seek mentorship. Industry connections can offer priceless advice, open pathways to career opportunities, and provide insights that facilitate career growth and salary enhancement.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jasser Jasser: As AI becomes increasingly central to Information Systems, mastering the integration of effective, ethical, explainable, and secure AI into your work is indispensable. Alongside these technical skills, prioritize the development of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. In the technical realm of Information Systems, the ability to collaborate effectively and articulate complex ideas clearly is what often separates the most accomplished professionals.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Jasser Jasser: In an era where intelligent chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini can perform a myriad of tasks, it's essential to infuse authenticity into your work. Whether crafting a new user experience or devising strategies against cyber threats, ensure your ideas are genuinely yours. Yet, this doesn't mean you should overlook the capabilities of these AI tools. Leverage them to refine and enhance your concepts. Equally critical is adaptability in our fast-evolving field. Embrace new roles, technologies, and methodologies with an open mind, as this flexibility can unlock doors to unexpected and fulfilling career opportunities.
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Jason Nichols PhD: The business environment is very dynamic right now, especially with regards to technology, and specifically with regards to AI. The advice remains the same through this however - stay curious, and always be learning. AI requires infrastructure, and lots of it. It also requires data. Lots of that as well. Businesses won’t be successful with AI unless they are able to efficiently and dynamically expand, configure, and adjust their infrastructure in support of its implementation. They also won’t be successful unless they have a solid plan for data storage, management and security. They need your help with this, and your training has prepared you to provide this type of support. This is an exciting time to be an Information Systems Professional. You are helping to shape the future of work, and the role of technology within the modern business enterprise. We are all counting on you, your company is counting on you, and you are up for this challenge and the emergent opportunities it brings.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jason Nichols PhD: Businesses need people to manage and secure their infrastructure, they need people that deeply and richly understand the mechanics of the systems that support them in their work, and they need people equipped to identify how to leverage these systems in transformative ways in order to create meaningful and sustainable value. All of this is underpinned by a rich understanding of the business, how it operates, and how its strategic objectives are intrinsically tied to the technology upon which it runs. Sharpen your skills in cloud computing and AI-relevant cloud services and platforms, in machine learning and AI, and in systems analysis and design. Explore design patterns relevant to the architecture of business technology systems and solutions. Become an expert at orchestrating technology and infrastructure to suit a given business need, objective, or strategy. These skills are timeless.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Jason Nichols PhD: Build your experience base through internships and industry projects, and brag about these experiences when you interview. Collect professional certificates to compliment your degree. Security and cloud computing are excellent areas to pursue these in right now. AI and machine learning as well, of course. Build a structured skillset in problem solving and critical thinking, and demonstrate this skillset in your discussions with future employers. Map all of these efforts into a coherent story about yourself in your applications, and how they have shaped you to be a tech-savvy business problem solver, with a strong understanding of both the business and the technology. This foundation prepares you for so very many roles in our field, and businesses recognize and actively seek out this profile in their job candidates. Use the resources available to you. If you need additional time for more formal training, join a masters program. Join us for a masters program, actually. Our AI in Business masters program is launching this Fall, and is open for enrollment currently. Visit us here to learn more: https://wpcarey.asu.edu/masters-programs/ai-business
Laura Kier
Network Design and Administration InstructorWhat general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Laura Kier: Students graduating from the Computer Network Design and Administration program will enter the job market with a solid foundation in networking technologies. Above that they should also be able to develop and demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Networking has a strong emphasis on teamwork and being able to communicate well with customers, co-workers and teammates is vital. Attaining certifications in Cisco, Linux, Windows, and security will also help the student stand out within the industry (classes in the program help to learn the knowledge needed to attain certifications). Students should participate in any local or online communities and groups to enhance skills and knowledge and find networking opportunities.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Laura Kier: Computer Networking is a dynamic field with a wide variety of opportunities in many different industries. Some skills that will be more important in general are skills in software defined networking and automation. Skills in the DevOps field will be necessary, as well as skills leveraging AI tools. Cybersecurity is always important and using AI tools to enhance security and monitoring is necessary.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Laura Kier: Learn to present your skills well from the interview and into your career. Those communication skills count! Industry certifications like CCNA matter. They help you demonstrate a willingness to grow and learn beyond what was required for your degree. Be willing to take on new challenges with your new job and keep learning new skills. It is really important for graduates to understand that talented IT professionals can move up quickly in a company, but they often must start at the bottom to showcase their technical and soft skills. Because of that, they should not shy away from entry level jobs if there is potential for growth.
Professor David Sanford
Associate Professor an Department Chair (MIS, CS, CYB MGT, IS CYB)Northwood University
Computer And Information Sciences
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Professor David Sanford: Workers like that they are challenged to solve problems and lead technological innovations.
They appreciate the diversity of projects
They enjoy the need for continuous improvement and education
Many see the global impact of their work.
They also desire and appreciate the need for versatile skills
A competitive salary is also an item that employees like
Workers dislike that the work can be stressful
Dealing with tight deadlines and/ or cybersecurity concerns.
This is a positive and a negative: The need to constantly stay up to date with technology can be a bit overwhelming for some.
There may be times of isolation, and
The unexpected system failures can be frustrating as they often require extra hours or the need to be on-call.
The multiple responsibilities and managing repetitive tasks are also issues workers point out in this field.
In short, the workplace offers exciting opportunities but comes with its fair share of pressures and challenges. Different people have different experiences based on their roles and personal preferences.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Professor David Sanford: Here's some of what they may do on a typical day: Develop and install computer systems and programs to ensure they meet company needs. They all ensure that computers can talk to each other and the internet without interference. Some may set up Virtual walls and put locks in place to keep the bad guys out and ensure the company's information is secure. From a technical aspect, if something goes wrong, they jump in and fix it ASAP to get everything running smoothly. They are the go-to people when others in the company have computer problems. They are supported and taught how to use new technology. From a data perspective. some handle important information and make sure it is organized and accessible when needed. Many manage large tech projects and ensure efficiency within an organization through the integration or creation of new technology. Some perform managerial duties such as developing and maintaining guidelines and manuals so that everyone can learn how to use the system(s). In this field, employees are constantly learning about new tech and products to stay on top of their game. They analyze this new technology to determine if it could be used within their organization to increase efficiency or improve a business process. In all. for someone just starting out in this field, they can spend their days teaching, running small projects and helping the team. As they gain more experience, they will face bigger challenges and learn new things.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Professor David Sanford: Going into information systems engineering is a smart choice for many reasons. The profession is in high demand worldwide, offering job security and competitive wages. Professionals in this field have versatile skills, allowing them to work with sophisticated technology and adapt to changing business needs. Continued technological advancement creates opportunities for innovation and problem-solving. Career paths cater to individual interests, including knowledge in areas such as cybersecurity and data analytics. In addition, the possibility of working remotely enhances the flexibility of work, making it attractive to those seeking a dynamic and stimulating career
Dwight Elliot
Professor: Information Management, Cybersecurity & LawPalm Beach State College
Homeland Security
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Dwight Elliot: Combination of Theoretical and Practical Knowledge: Ensure that you have a strong
combination of theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on skill sets. You must be able
to articulate your knowledge and experience well in an interview and demonstrate what
you are able to do. Be prepared to show examples of precious work that you have
produced or created.
b) Job Research: Always engage in continuous job search Online and in-person. Read
carefully the job description and determine how your background, knowledge and
experience fits best with the job you are reviewing. Customize your resume to that job if
you feel you have the appropriate matching skill sets. If you do not have all the skills sets
at the time, be willing to set mini-goals to gain those skills and update your resume when
you do add additional skills, then reapply to the appropriate jobs available.
c) Online Job Database: Gradually build your profile on various IT and Cybersecurity jobs
such as: www.dice.com, www.monster.com, and www.cyberseek.org and also at the
organizational and company website. Once you setup an Online profile it will make it
easier to reapply in the future for other jobs that are related to your background.
d) Keywords: Make sure you list certain keywords on your resume that matches the jobs, if
you have those skills, so when a HR representative reviews resumes you have the
appropriate terms on your resume that match the job and the algorithms can identify your
skill set. Only do this if you have the actual knowledge and skill can explain yourself in
an interview. Do not do this if you do not have the actual knowledge and skill, since
being asked a question in an interview that you are unqualified to answer is not a good
look for your career and could be detrimental.
e) Continuous Learning: Be willing to engage in continuous learning, studying beyond
your degree accomplishments, since learning never stops and technology continues to
change. Maybe also pursue certifications.
f) Professional Online Business Portfolio and Brand: Continue to build a strong Online
IT, Networking and Cybersecurity Portfolio, through websites such as Linked in for
example, and also your own secure website that shows demonstrations of the creative
work that you have done in the past for clients and other jobs.
g) IT , Networking and Cybersecurity Events, Seminars and Conferences: Be willing to
always continue to attend events, seminars and conferences (in person and virtual) and
actually meet industry professionals. Do a search these events Online at all times.
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Dwight Elliot: In addition to the following 10 best practices from the article below, I would like to share the
following approach to career and job success that leads to maximization of salary during a
career:
a) Employers' Vision and Mission: Focus on understanding the vision and mission of the
organization you work for and what is important to them. If the idea, concept, or project
is important to them then it is important to you. Understand the history and background
of the company, the current project, financial and financial growth goals of the company,
who their competitors are, and what competitive edge the company have or some that you
can suggest. Do not just concentrate on what you want from the job (such as a good
salary, everyone says this). Make sure you are providing the employer with value, what
they want and need from you and in return you are laying the foundation and a strong
case for what you want and need from the job. This is an essential component of making
yourself valuable and marketable for salary increases and promotions based on your
performance and your measurable growth contribution to the organization.
b) Environmental Awareness and Communication with Stakeholders: Be sure you take
the time to learn the different internal and external stakeholders within the organization.
Understanding and respecting organizational structures as well as hierarchies and
following processes and communication protocols matter in an organization. You must
know who to speak to about what, when , where and how. Know your job well and how it
is related to the job of other people on your team. Understand and respect the role of all
individuals within the organization, especially those who are above you. If you do not yet
know their role within the organization begin to ask questions nicely of someone who
does know the players well and the history behind certain key positions. Get to learn the
written and unwritten rules. Saying the wrong thing to the wrong person could cost you a
job or be detrimental to your career in the long term. In the alternative, making a good
impression by communicating properly with the right person could open doors for you
now and in the future. This is an essential component of making yourself valuable and
marketable for salary increases and promotions based on your performance and your
measurable growth contribution to the organization.
c) Employer's View: Are You An Asset or Liability? Try your best to understand the
employer's point of view versus your own. Engage in micro level vs. macro level
comparative analysis as best you can. This means you make a concerted effort to think
about what is important to your employers or clients and how you can be instrumental in
meeting their needs at the highest level of performance, then think of how you can benefit
based on your valuable contribution. Ask yourself each day whether you are an asset to
the company or liability?, and be truly honest with yourself. What unique value do you
bring to the team, such as advanced data analytics skills, advanced accounting skills,
advanced technological skills, etc. Is there anything that you are doing that detracts from
this value that can make this valuable asset that you bring non-useful or non-impactful?
This is an essential component of making yourself valuable and marketable for salary
increases and promotions based on your performance and your measurable growth
contribution to the organization.
d) Be Present Physically, Mentally and with Positive Energy: Please be sure that you are
showing up to work ahead of time or at least on time.
a. Physically Present: Many individuals lose job opportunities just based on their
inability to be present and accountable for work on time. High level employees
actually show up to work 30 minutes to an hour early on a consistent basis.
b. Mentally Present: While you are at work you need to be fully engaged in work
related activity. This means that you do not spend an inordinate amount of time on
your cellphone looking at non work related messages, such as social media and
non-work related text. This is not fair to the employer and you will not allow you
to maximize your contribution to the organization or put in the work necessary to
make yourself a valuable asset to the company. What you do with your time is
what you become.
c. Energy, Communication and Positive Presence: Be sure that your energy level
is monitored and you positive in your communications, since this ultimately
affects profits and losses if a customer does not return to do business with you or
an employer because of how they were treated. Your outlook and energy affect
your overall job performance, business and career growth and ultimately your
profits. All your roles within an organization require good communication and
customer service skills. Be sure that your energy level is uplifting, positive and
creates an atmosphere where customers and colleagues feel welcome to do
business with you. This is a "little" thing that can make a big difference.
e) E) Respectful: Ensure that you are respecting others in the same way and even more than
you want them to respect you. Give as much or more than you receive, and your career
will be even more fulfilling. Ultimately a person's attitude determines their altitude in
life.
These are essential components of making yourself valuable and marketable for salary
increases and promotions based on your performance and your measurable growth
contribution to the organization..
f) Documentation of Biography, Website, Linkedin Portfolio and GitHub: Please be
sure that your are consistently updating you BIO, resume, LinkedIn, website or any other
form of professional documentation that ensures your accomplishments, achievements
and status is current and up to date. As you engage in professional development trainings,
gain certifications or additional degrees, and add additional experiences be sure to update
your profile so that you are maximizing your value.
Implementing these best practices consistently will help position you for salary increases and
promotions based on your performance and measurable growth contribution to the organization.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dwight Elliot: Core Skills Areas: data security, networking, software development, cybersecurity, systems
engineering, AI, data analytics, financial and risk analysis, security intelligence, GDPR
Certifications (some important ones):
1) CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+
2) Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals
3) Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
4) Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
5) Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
6) Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
7) Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Soft Skills: honesty, integrity and trust, compliance, communication (in-person and live) then
virtual, patience, accountability and dependability, transparency, trainable and coachable,
teamwork, discipline, commitment, dedication, humility, time management, project management
Adrian Rusu
Professor, Alice E. and Michael J. Fisher Teaching Chair in Computer ScienceUniversity of New Haven
Computer Science
What general advice would you give to an Information Systems Administrator?
Adrian Rusu: By getting involved in internships, co-ops, or other potential real-world experiences in their field of interest, so they can obtain real-world experience beyond classroom during their studies. Generally, employers value graduates who already have relevant real-world experience and who therefore can easier adapt to job requirements.
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Adrian Rusu: Soft skills will be important as graduates will have the opportunity to interact with a variety of professionals and customers. Relating to and understanding customers' point of view is critical to their ability to deliver technical solutions that meet customers' needs.
In addition to soft skills, technical skills in high demand and emerging areas of interest will be important. Whether graduates have interest in developing information technology infrastructure, providing information security services, or getting involved in business analysis, they would need to deepen their technical skills in those areas.
What will help Information Systems Administrators increase their earning potential?
Adrian Rusu: Since an Information Systems degree covers a variety of different types of jobs, a graduate beginning their career has a variety of opportunities. My advice is to follow their interests and pursue jobs in their area of interest.
Hoyet Hemphill Ph.D.
IDT Program Coordinator and Graduate Advisor, Instructional Design and TechnologyWestern Illinois University
School of Engineering and Technology
What skills stand out on Information Systems Administrator resumes?
Hoyet Hemphill Ph.D.: The next K12 job mostly advertised is Technology specialist, and the majority of the skills include knowledge of data visualization tools like google data studio, strong spreadsheet skills. (Google Sheets is preferred.), ability to collect, organize, analyze, and disseminate significant amounts of information with attention to detail and accuracy, excellent communication and analytical skills, knowledge of data analytics, ability to troubleshoot data questions, excellent organizational skills including attention to detail and multi-tasking skills, excellent client-facing and internal communication skills. Duties most seen include interpreting, summarizing, and communicating data analyses to clients, ability to create forms and strategies to help schools efficiently and effectively collect data, download, review, and interpret school-related data from assessment providers, school spreadsheets, and other systems.
The skills required majorly for the curriculum designer position include understanding by design principles for curriculum design, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, excellent writing skills, ability to create effective and fair assessment methods. The duties include collaborating effectively and extensively with internal and external partners, including content and specialty teams to ensure the curriculum is developed in accordance with all articulated quality standards, overseeing the review/feedback process for all subject curriculum, including coordination of teacher review teams, consensus building, conflict resolution, planning, and decision-making, etc.
Ehsan Sheybani Ph.D.
ProfessorUniversity of South Florida
School of Information Systems and Management
What skills stand out on Information Systems Administrator resumes?
Ehsan Sheybani Ph.D.: Analytical and problem-solving skills, Strong technical skills, The ability to work well under pressure, attention to detail, teamwork skills, organization and time management, interpersonal and communication skills, management and leadership skills.
What soft skills should all Information Systems Administrators possess?
Ehsan Sheybani Ph.D.: Leadership, motivation, communication, conflict management, trust-building, decision-making, organization, and time management.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Information Systems Administrators?
Ehsan Sheybani Ph.D.: Negotiation, relevant technical skills, prioritization and goal setting, project planning, delegating, and budget management.
What skills will help Information Systems Administrators earn the most?
Ehsan Sheybani Ph.D.: Software development, technical sales leadership, mobile app development, business analysis, digital marketing, affiliate marketing, analytical reasoning, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and blockchain.
Guido Lang Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Computer Information SystemsQuinnipiac University
School of Business
What skills stand out on Information Systems Administrator resumes?
Guido Lang Ph.D.: - Systems analysis and design
- Business/process/data modeling
- IT project management
- Change management
What soft skills should all Information Systems Administrators possess?
Guido Lang Ph.D.: - Analytical skills
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Creativity
What hard/technical skills are most important for Information Systems Administrators?
Guido Lang Ph.D.: - Python
- SQL
- Excel
What skills will help Information Systems Administrators earn the most?
Guido Lang Ph.D.: - Cloud computing
- Scrum
- DevOps`
Michael McLaughlin
FacultyBrigham Young University - Idaho
Department of Computer Information Technology
What skills stand out on Information Systems Administrator resumes?
Michael McLaughlin: The ability to solve unstructured problems.
What soft skills should all Information Systems Administrators possess?
Michael McLaughlin: The ability to work well with people.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Information Systems Administrators?
Michael McLaughlin: Solid understanding of the technology stack (from desktops to cloud), including at least one programming language at certification level and object-oriented design skills that include exclusivity, patterns, and data design both in relational and document databases.
What skills will help Information Systems Administrators earn the most?
Michael McLaughlin: Rock-solid programming skills; and presently four languages that appear to drive the highest salaries: Object-C/Swift (macOS, iOS), Ruby, Python, JavaScript (with React.js and Node.js skills). However, this changes from source to source.
David Garaventa
Director, Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity Programs, Assistant Professor, CISAlbertus Magnus College
Business Administration and Management Department
What skills stand out on Information Systems Administrator resumes?
David Garaventa: The skills/attributes required across a variety of jobs in the IT fields.
What soft skills should all Information Systems Administrators possess?
David Garaventa: Communication and collaboration skills are critical. Particularly now that many employees are working remotely, it has become more difficult - yet more important than ever - to have IT teams that work effectively together, even when they are not in the same room together. But this is not unique to the IT realm. Whether via remote meetings or through effective written communications, it is no longer enough to simply have "technical skills." Technical skills can be taught to employees more easily than developing employee's soft skills, so when an employee approaches their job with a strong set of communication skills and strong analytic reading and writing abilities, they can often make themselves stand out to employers. The employers will recognize that they have the attributes to be an asset to the team and can then invest in helping them develop any technical areas where they may be lacking.
This is not to say that technical skills don't matter, because they do, especially in the IT field. But suppose an employee brings a strong set of soft skills to an IT team (e.g., collaboration, communication, critical thinking, etc.). In that case, they probably also can learn more technical skills as part of their job function. I once had a colleague say to me that when she is hiring, she has found that technical skill is all over the place...but it's the soft skills that are harder to find. Lastly, having the ability - and a desire - to be continually learning is essential. Technology is not static, and businesses are not static, so thinking critically in different settings across various technology platforms is very important. The tools your department uses today may not be the tools they are using tomorrow, so being fluid, adaptable, and constantly learning is the name of the game.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Information Systems Administrators?
David Garaventa: The technical skills that are required are broad and tend to be business and/or industry-specific. If you are working in healthcare IT, the patient management platforms you use could be different from the client database used by a bank's IT team, for example. So, on the one hand, the recommendation would be to determine what platforms are most commonly used in your industry area and spend time mastering those platforms. On the other hand, most industries tend to have specific tools that are most commonly used, and spending time mastering those is important.
Going deeper into the subject, technical skills around project management, cloud infrastructure, security, and end-user support bridge across all industries. Having knowledge and skills in these areas will serve IT professionals well, no matter what field or industry they end up in. Again, it is challenging to recommend specific technical skills because the field of IT is so broad.
What skills will help Information Systems Administrators earn the most?
David Garaventa: Here is where I can be a little more specific, but mostly in terms of certifications. Certifications and micro-credentials indicate two things to an employer: First, you must have an established, verified set of knowledge and skills that you bring to the table. If it is an industry-respected certification, it brings a lot of credibility regarding your knowledge and skills around a specific platform or application. The second thing that certifications and micro-credentials demonstrate to an employer is that you are willing to continue to grow and develop your skills in your field. Technology is progressing so rapidly that the things you knew last year may no longer be relevant today. And as a result, having the ability and desire to continue learning, adapting, and attaining certifications is a great way to show your ongoing commitment to your profession.
Dr. Pauline Mosley
Full Professor and Associate Chair of Information TechnologyPace University
Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Information Systems Administrator job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Pauline Mosley: There are several big trends; however, in my opinion, the biggest trend we are seeing is an increase in the usage of mobile apps, cloud computing and smart technologies. The pandemic has cultivated a huge demand for these applications. The problematic effects of the pandemic such as the inability to conduct business and interact socially, has heighten the need for these technologies - hence transitioning them from emerging technologies to part of our everyday living.
What soft skills should all Information Systems Administrators possess?
Dr. Pauline Mosley: All graduates should possess strong communication skills, a willingness to take risks, think critically and innovatively. Lastly, they need to be flexible and willing to learn.
What's a day at work look like for an Information Systems Administrator?
Dr. Pauline Mosley: In my opinion a typical day for a recent graduate may entail working various hours throughout the day. In the past work days were considered from 9 to 5; however, with the pandemic and global economy, graduates should expect to work in segments through-out the day or when critical work needs to be completed. So, they should expect to work a few hours in the morning, a few in the afternoon, and possibly a few more late into the evening to accommodate the clientele that may be working in another time zone or part of the world. The concept of "the office" will be redefined by their employer. "The office" could be their homes, or a combination of home and a physical space, or it could be virtual. They should expect to work with people from various cultures and in some cases they may even interact with smart technologies, robotics, or other forms of new technologies. Their work day will be very exciting because they will have a myriad of technological options and the flexibility to decide how they work (whether remote or in-person) to complete various tasks.
What experience really stands out on Information Systems Administrator resumes?
George Miller: For graduates any experience stands out on a resume and it does not need to be related to their field of study. I tell students to do whatever to get experience. This can be with community volunteer work, at their college through clubs and organization and with professional employment.
There are many organization and government paid internship and co-op opportunities for students within all fields. There is no reason why every student cannot find some sort of internship/co-op during a summer break. Many times, an internship/co-op turns into full time employment. Often high schools and colleges are doing major technology upgrades within the summer months (because they are shut down during this period) and would welcome a student as an IS major as an intern. But volunteer work at the local church or favorite charity can also provide valuable experience. As I opened with this answer any experience stands out on a resume. The experience shows that a graduate has drive and determination.
Dr. Wayne Wakeland Ph.D.
Professor and Systems Science Program ChairPortland State University
Systems science program
What Information Systems Administrator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Wayne Wakeland Ph.D.: For analyst positions, I think that employers want to hire people with strong data analysis skills, which, of course, includes statistics, but also big data, machine learning (algorithms), computer-based modeling, and programming. And, in addition to these apparently rather specialized skills, there is growing recognition that a talent for thinking, communicating, and problem-solving in a very general sense, and being able to cope with/address complexity, is also quite important.