The Role of Systems Administrator

Systems administrators play an important role in developing secure Information Technology (IT) networks and operating systems that allow teams to collaborate efficiently.

They gain the opportunity to work with the latest technologies, obtain essential knowledge and experience in system maintenance, and connect with solid professional networks. By adapting to best practices and improving their skill set, Systems Administrators will accompany organisations as knowledgeable professionals who possess an understanding of how to provide effective tech-related service.

System Administrator Job Description

System administrators are essential for managing the overall performance of any organisation's IT systems.

System administrators are vital to the function of businesses: they help employees stay productive by managing their IT needs. By keeping systems safe and secure, they also protect businesses from costly data breaches that can devastate customer confidence.

Duties and Responsibilities of an Systems Administrator

A system administrator’s responsibilities involve providing technical support and ensuring the smooth operation of an organisation's systems. This includes setting up, configuring, and maintaining network infrastructure as well as troubleshooting system errors.

You should have a strong understanding of different operating systems, networking components, and software applications as well as be able to provide support to users who require technical assistance.

System administrators also play a key role in operating system security by monitoring networks for threats and vulnerabilities, managing user accounts and privileges, and keeping security policies and protocols up to date.

Systems Administrator Salary

Working as a Systems Administrator in Australia can be an incredibly rewarding career move, with salaries ranging from $90K to 110K on average.

Qualifications and technical skills - How to become a Systems Administrator

Becoming a Systems Administrator often involves having qualifications in information technology or computer science, as well as a strong understanding of various operating systems.

Having knowledge and experience with scripting, networking, storage, databases, virtualisation and network analytics is important for ensuring successful system administration. With the right qualifications and technical skills, your potential in a Systems Administrator position is virtually limitless.

Qualities needed to be a successful Systems Administrator

Having excellent problem-solving skills and a keen attention to detail are essential in order to efficiently manage any organisation's IT infrastructure in a System Administrator role.

Good communication and interpersonal skills will also be invaluable when managing vendors, troubleshooting system issues and developing partnerships with other IT professionals.

Demand for Systems Administrator in Australia

Businesses of all sizes need reliable administrators to ensure their systems run optimally. With the right certifications and skill sets in place, job security is practically guaranteed for those with experience or interest in this field.

The Bureau of Labour Statistics predicts a steady growth in demand for System Administrator in Australia - of up to 5% by 2030!

Keep an eye out for the latest System Administrator jobs at Michael Page.

Next Steps - Systems Administrator

As a good System Administrator, there are many options available to you to continue progressing in your career.

It is important to understand the commercial needs of the business you support and have an appreciation of other related IT disciplines – such as networking, database administration and programming. Taking short courses or reading material related to these areas can help broaden your understanding and increase your technical skills.

Additionally, gaining additional qualifications, such as Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA), will help demonstrate that you are committed to maintaining good standards in system administration.