How To Become A Server Manager: What It Is and Career Path

What is a server manager and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

The server managers are accountable for various technical tasks on the company's computer network systems. They set up and maintain the servers and networks of the company. They connect workstations to the company's network and monitor the network for any potential issues. Also, they maintain the networking systems, track server activity, and perform software upgrades. Furthermore, they maintain computer hardware and resolve technical issues. Additionally, they implement new system changes, audit server security, and monitor server activity.

To get employment into this role, you need an associate's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Having relevant certifications from vendors like Redhat, Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA is a plus. You need analytical, communication, and troubleshooting skills. You must also be familiar with security and operating software. Server Managers earn an average annual salary of $71,529 or $34 per hour. It varies between $41,000 and $122,000.

ScoreServer ManagerUS Average

Salary

4.8

Avg. Salary $61,639

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

9.1

Growth rate 10%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

7.4

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.56%

Asian 8.57%

Black or African American 10.74%

Hispanic or Latino 17.09%

Unknown 5.07%

White 57.96%

Gender

female 65.72%

male 34.28%

Age - 38

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 38

Stress level

9.1

Stress level is very high

7.1 - high

Complexity level

5.3

Complexity level is intermediate

7 - challenging

Work life balance

5.0

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a server manager

Explore server manager education requirements

Most common server manager degrees

Bachelor's

47.4 %

Associate

21.5 %

High School Diploma

20.0 %

Start to develop specific server manager skills

Skills	Percentages
Customer Service	21.18%
Payroll	6.91%
POS	6.19%
Customer Complaints	5.84%
Fine Dining	3.87%

Complete relevant server manager training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-2 years on post-employment, on-the-job training. New server managers 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 server manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real server manager resumes.

Gain additional server manager certifications

Server manager 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 server manager certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for server managers include Food Safety Manager Certification and Certified Management Accountant (CMA).

More About Certifications

Research server manager duties and responsibilities

Manage operations of a successful restaurant/hotel business including leadership of client and supplier relationships.
Manage technical support, business analysis, project management, application development and support, training, and facilitation.
Supervise all areas within the restaurant and train all FOH staff in policies and procedures.
Monitor food distribution and restaurant maintenance of FOH and BOH -Handling of financial duties and perform administrative activities

Apply for server manager jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a server manager 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 do server managers rate their job?

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Server manager reviews

A zippia user wrote a review on Jun 2020

Cons

I don't like it when moral is low and nothing seems to perk employees up to become more productive at work.