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The primary role of IT Administrators is to oversee and maintain all aspects of a company’s computer infrastructure. This includes maintaining networks, servers and security programs and systems. IT Administrators manage the upgrade and installation of new hardware and software, perform troubleshooting to address any problems with computer systems, and assess viruses and potential threats to a company’s network. IT Administrators might also monitor the use of email, create and change passwords, make suggestions for improvements to computer systems, backup data and perform data recovery if needed.

IT Administrators generally work in almost any type of industry and often oversee departments of 20-50 IT employees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), IT Administrators can expect to see an 8 percent growth rate in employment through 2024. While the majority of this growth is expected to be seen in the healthcare industry as health institutions upgrade and utilize new technology for patient communications and records management, it is believed that many industries will continue to implement faster systems for data storage and transmission.

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IT Administrator Duties and Responsibilities

It is essential that IT Administrators complete various tasks to successfully fulfill the duties and demands associated with their position. We have examined several job listings for IT Administrators and found the following to be among the most common duties and responsibilities listed for this occupation.

Maintain Computer Systems

From servers to security programs, it is up to IT Administrators to review a company's computer systems to ensure that all aspects are operating efficiently. IT Administrators will troubleshoot problems, configure hardware and software, implement back up processes and assess systems for upgrades or replacement.

Complete System Installs and Upgrades

IT Administrators are responsible for installing new systems and assessing and implementing upgrades as needed. They conduct consistent analyses of a company's computer systems to determine if existing components meet the company's need and perform upgrades or updates as needed.

Manage Network Security

In many cases, it is the duty of IT Administrators to assess security programs and decide which is best for the company for which they are employed. They will install and manage these systems, conduct updates, create passwords and run check for viruses and spyware.

Oversee Data Storage and Retrieval Systems

It is in the best interest of companies to utilize effective backup systems and have in place data retrieval processes in the event of emergencies. IT Administrators create and manage the use of backup and retrieval systems.

IT Administrator Skills

If you wish to become an IT Administrator, it is essential that you possess strong communication, organizational and problem solving skills. You should be familiar with all aspect of project management, such as budgeting and scheduling, and exercise strong time management skills. The abilities to work independently as needed, manage teams and apply analytical skills are crucial to finding success in this field. Along with these qualities, it is also important that IT Administrators possess the following capabilities:

  • Assess existing network serves, operating systems and security programs.
  • Upgrade existing hardware and software programs.
  • Install and implement effective security systems.
  • Manage data backup and retrieval processes.
  • Troubleshoot problems with systems and programs.

IT Administrator Tools of the Trade

IT Administrators rely on various tools to satisfy all job requirements. If you have the desire to become an IT Administrator, you would need to have the knowledge to use the following:

Computer security programs – IT Administrators must be familiar with various security hardware and software to choose the program that best fits the needs of their employer.

Network technology – from firewall configuration to wireless access, IT Administrators should have a full understanding of all aspects of computer networking.

Project management – it is important that IT Administrators have knowledge of project management practices and techniques, such as team building, scheduling and budgeting.

IT Administrator Education and Training

Many employers seek IT Administrators who hold at least a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, information security or related areas. Professional network and other computer certifications, such as A+ and MSCE, are often preferred.

IT Administrator Salary

The BLS reports that, according to the latest data, IT Administrators earn a median annual salary of $79,700. The lowest ten percent realize a salary of $48.870, while top earners can be paid an annual wage of $127,610. IT Administrators in northeastern states and on the West coast are paid higher salaries than elsewhere in the U.S. Maryland ($106,000), the District of Columbia ($96,290) and New Jersey ($94,870) top the list of states where IT Administrators earn the highest salaries, followed closely by California at $94,520.

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IT Administrator Resources

You can learn more about what being an IT Administrator entails by reviewing the resources we have provided below. These links to books, professional organizations and publications are vital to help you decide whether being an IT Administrator is for you.

Association for Talent Development (ATD)

Formerly known as the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD), ATD offers conferences, workshops, online and print publications, online courses and other resources to help new and existing Training Administrators gain insight into job duties and further develop their skills to succeed in this career.

CompTIA Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)

From teaching students leadership skills to prepare them for careers as IT Administrators to providing a publishing avenue for IT professionals, this organization can help boost and further the careers of IT personnel.

Network Professional Association (NPA)

This organization provides IT Administrators and other professionals with career development and support through publications, articles, interviews with IT personnel and networking opportunities.

IT Manager Daily

This online publication provides IT Administrators with latest news and tips in areas of management, IT support, compliance, data center and security. Learn about current trends and practices in the IT industry.

How to Be an IT Administrator by Robert McMillen

Written by an experienced IT Administrator, this book covers every aspect you would need to know about working in this position. Covers everything from modern networks to privacy laws.

Network and System Administration Handbook by Duong Tran

Gives the most updated information about information storage, Web servers, IT security and more. Also provides a review of project, budget, time and other management practices.

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