System Administrator Job Description

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Table Of Contents

Learn about the important requirements, obligations, responsibilities, and skills that should be in a system administrator job description.

System administrators set up, monitor, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and update computer systems. They are responsible for the secure and efficient operation of all system components, including hardware, software, and network.

If you need to hire a system administrator, ZipRecruiter can help! You can even post your first job listing for free! If you want to check out other options, you can explore our best job posting sites guide.

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System Administrator Job Description Template

We’re seeking an experienced system administrator to take over the operation of the organization’s computer system. You’ll work closely with the network engineer to build and maintain the system. You’ll also support end users by providing technical assistance as needed.

System Administrator Responsibilities

  • Setting up computer system elements such as hardware, software, and network components.

  • Monitoring system performance for efficiency.

  • Ensuring digital data is secure and backed up regularly.

  • Troubleshooting system issues and making repairs or updates as needed.

  • Providing technical support to end users.

  • Creating documentation about the system to educate end users.

  • Looking for ways to enhance the system, making it more secure and efficient.

  • Updating your professional knowledge and skills to keep the system running at its best.

System Administrator Requirements 

  • Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, information technology, information systems, or a related discipline

  • Relevant Microsoft certifications, like the Enterprise Administrator Expert credential, are a plus

  • 3+ years in a similar position

  • Expertise in computer system components (hardware, software, network)

  • Knowledge of SQL and databases

  • Superior technical, analytical, troubleshooting, communication, technical writing, prioritization, and interpersonal skills

System Administrator Duties And Responsibilities

Let’s dive deeper into some of the system administrator’s responsibilities.

Set Up Computer System

System administrators help select and gather computer system components. Then, they build and test the system. Therefore, a system administrator must have a deep knowledge of the various elements and how they work together.

Troubleshoot System Issues

System administrators troubleshoot system issues as they arise. Then, they make the appropriate repairs or upgrades to resolve them. A system administrator must have strong problem-solving skills to diagnose and fix issues correctly.

Related: Highest Paying Tech Jobs

Provide Technical Support

System administrators provide regular technical support to end users. That way, their colleagues can get back to being productive quickly. A system administrator must be tech-savvy and have superb interpersonal skills to provide effective and friendly support.

Create Documentation

System administrators document how each component of the computer system works. That way, end users can refer to the documentation when they have questions or concerns. A system administrator must therefore have superior communication and technical writing skills.

Update Professional Knowledge

System administrators need to carve out time for study and research. Doing so will help them stay current on the latest computer system innovations and trends. A system administrator must be committed to updating their professional knowledge to keep their firm’s system running at peak efficiency.

System Administrator Salary And Job Outlook

Here’s the current outlook for the system administrator role in the United States:

Median National Salary: $71,000+

Education Required: Bachelor’s degree

Number of Jobs: 333,000+

Job Growth 2020 – 2030: 3% (slower than average)

The Bottom Line

Now that you’ve finished reading this article, take a few minutes to write your system administrator job description. Then, post your position to ZipRecruiter!

Don’t forget to read through the best free job posting sites, too. That way, you can attract more qualified applicants without exceeding your recruiting budget.