This article is extensive research on the role of a network administrator.
A network administrator is responsible for the supervision, security, and maintenance of an organization’s computer systems.
This article covers all you need to know about the job description, salary, career paths, working conditions, required qualifications, and how to become a network administrator.
A network administrator is slightly different from a systems administrator.
Network Administrator Information
| Official Job Title | Network Administrator |
| Average Salary | $71,730 |
| Stress Level | Average |
| Work/ Life | Average |
| Job Satisfaction | High |
| Career Advancement | Average |
Job Description
What Is A Network Administrator Role?
The Network Administrator’s role is to monitor computer networks for full functionality at all times.
This responsibility could be in the form of installations, updates, or configurations.
The network administrator’s role also includes inspecting computer systems for network performance and security issues.
What Does A Network Administrator Do Daily?
Network Administrators daily work closely with other IT professionals to consistently update security measures, install essential programs, and troubleshoot problems.
Other daily tasks are ensuring the supply and stock of printers, ink, and cables and supporting other offices.
Network Administrators strive daily to keep the systems aligned with the business target and goals.
Responsibilities, Duties & Roles Of A Network Administrator.
The Network Administrator’s duties, roles, and responsibilities are not static.
Some key responsibilities are site inspections, routing/re-routing connection cables, and maintenance of access points, servers, routers, Wi-Fi connections, firewalls, VPNs, and workstations.
Other functions of the network administrator are as follows:
- Maintenance of software application management
- Client network services
- Resolution of a wide range of server issues
- Research on new technologies and trends
- Coordinating the delivery of new equipment
- PC repairs
- Management of printers, fax equipment, or copiers
Salary Range of A Network Administrator
Average Salary
According to multiple sources and salary reports, the average salary of a Network Administrator in the United States is $71,730.
This salary, however, varies from organization to organization.
Starting Salary
The starting salary of a Network Administrator in the United States is $52,899.
This figure is highly relative to the hiring company.
Senior Salary
The senior salary of a Network Administrator is $99,650.
Other benefits and bonuses usually come with this figure.
How To Become A Network Administrator
The Entry Level: Certification, Training & Degree
A Network Administrator should have some training and certifications to be considered for the entry level.
Some employers require some form of advanced degree like a master’s or associate’s, while most employers are content with a bachelor’s degree.
Apart from the primary degree, there are many other information systems and IT qualifications you may want to get to increase your knowledge and boost your career prospects.
Major specializations for network administrators are computer science, software engineering, information technology, network administration, and network management.
There are also internships for newly qualified administrators to gain some training on the job.
Other Skill Sets, Requirements & Qualifications
A Network Administrator should have knowledge of various computer systems, multitasking, attention to detail, analytical skills, diagnostic skills, multiple types of network experience, and critical thinking skills.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Network Administrator?
If you plan to stick with a bachelor’s degree, you could become a network administrator within 3-5 years.
If you plan to get an associate’s or master’s degree, it could still be within the range of 5-6 years. It is also advisable to add the internship time.
Is It Hard To Become A Network Administrator?
It is not challenging to become a Network Administrator.
Like every other profession, your interest and passion will make the learning process worthwhile.
A Network Administrator Career Paths.
The Network Administrator Roadmap
As a Network Administrator, you will be in charge of a department that practically all other departments within an organization rely on to function.
As a result, you must have core knowledge of network topologies and concepts.
You must gain the relevant degrees and experience, complete an internship as a junior-level network administrator, get involved in many projects, and earn more certifications.
A failure in your department may ultimately fail the whole company.
Projections For Growth In Network Administration Jobs
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the employment of network administrators will grow by 3 percent through 2031.
However, it is a bit slower in growth than other occupations, with the total employment change by 2031 being 11,300 new jobs.
Demand for a network administrator should continue to grow as IT incorporates into every sector.
In Summary: Is Network Administration A Good Career?
In summary, a career in network administration is not wrong at all.
The market demand, growth possibilities, job satisfaction, and rewards are worth considering as a career.
If you enjoy working with both software and hardware, then this is an excellent career choice.
Working Conditions Of A Network Administrator
Can A Network Administrator Work Remotely From Home?
A network administrator can work remotely from home, but this is highly subjective to the specific kind of role you will be functioning in and the organization’s requirement.
Some companies provide all the necessary tools you will need to work remotely, especially if you’re working with only software.
Most employers and the job type will, however, require that you work on-site.
How Many Hours Does A Network Administrator Work?
A network administrator typically works the standard 9-5 traditional business hours.
However, it is common for network administrators to do some overtime if uncompleted projects are on hold.
Can A Network Administrator Work Part-Time?
Network administrators hardly work alone.
They usually work with other support specialists and IT administrators.
So based on the arrangement of some companies, a network administrator can work part-time.
Again, it all depends on the organization or your employer.
Other factors that influence this may be due to the type of projects or simply the company’s policy.
What Are The Average Vacation Days Of A Network Administrator?
The average vacation days of a Network Administrator are not different from other office jobs.
However, a Network Administrator may need to plan vacations outside the completion time of projects.
Alternative Careers & Similar Jobs to a Network Administrator
- IT Risk Manager
- UI Developer
- Product Manager
- UX Designer
- Sound Engineer
- Product Engineer
- Video Game Writer
- Application Developer
- Computer Engineer
- Technical Program Manager
- DevOps Engineer
- AI Engineer
- Cloud Architect
Resume Tips For A Network Administrator
Here are a few tips for a Network Administrator resume:
- Technicality Mastery:
- The Network Administrator job bases its mastery on common and uncommon computer technicalities.
- You must be sure to list your expertise in managing various computer systems and using numerous software and application programs.
- ATS Knowledge:
- You need to understand how the ATS software works in selecting resumes for processing.
- Make sure to use the relevant keywords and structure in your resume for a higher chance of getting selected.
- Achievements:
- You must list some successful projects you have worked on.
- These achievements will boost your chance of securing the job.
Interview Questions
Q1: How has your prior working experience as a network administrator prepared you for this position?
Why it works: This question is asked to check if you’re well-groomed in the process.
Your answers should include your internship experiences, total work experience, and achievements.
Q2: What certifications have you received for network administration?
Why it works: This question is asked to check your love for learning and how qualified you are.
Q3: What has been the most challenging experience you’ve encountered as a network administrator?
Why it works: This question works to check if you have the right skills to tackle any obstacle you will encounter while working.
Jobs Related To A Network Administrator
- Computer Systems Analyst
- IT Project manager
- Network Technician
- Database Administrator
- Cyber Security Analyst
- PC Technician
- IT Technician
For HR Managers: Tips For Hiring A Network Administrator
Key Characteristics To Look For In A Network Administrator
The responsibilities of a network administrator are majorly in the areas of planning and designing networks, setting them up, maintaining them, and expanding them.
This position certainly requires reasonable technical competence.
A network administrator must reason and analyze critically, tackle problems logically, and be highly consistent with their practices.
They must have multiple skills and knowledge in networking and be able to ensure uninterrupted network operation.
Minimum Level Of Education & Experience Of A Network Administrator
The minimum level of education and experience of a network administrator is relative.
Some employers consider a minimum of a high school diploma with a wealth of knowledge.
In contrast, most employers consider the minimum level of education to be a bachelor’s degree and 1 to two years of experience working in the field.
Other employers may request multiple years of experience to qualify for a higher-level position.
References
- https://www.indeed.com/recruitment/job-description/network-administrator
- https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/technology/blog/what-does-a-network-administrator-do/
- https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-network-administrator
- https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/network-administrator-career-salary-guide/
- https://www.indeed.com/career/network-administrator/salaries
- https://www.bls.gov/oes/2019/may/oes151244.htm
- https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Network_Administrator/Salary
- https://mint.intuit.com/salary/network-administrator
- https://hackr.io/roadmaps/ux-designer-roadmap
- https://www.bittbox.com/all/ux-designers-roadmap
- https://hired.com/job-roles/network-administrator#skills_section
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm#tab-6
- https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=0dee377c95d1760f&tk=1fgldc5r2ocat800&from=serp&vjs=3
- https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/technology/blog/what-does-a-network-administrator-do/
- https://ostoday.org/other/you-asked-how-many-hours-does-a-network-administrator-work.html