What does a Systems Administrator do?
Systems administrators are responsible for the setup and maintenance of a company or organization’s computer systems. They ensure a computer within a company's network, and especially the server, is operating smoothly and securely. Systems administrators configure and maintain a network computer system that includes hardware system software and applications.
Systems administrators ensure data is securely stored and perform regular backups of the data and information. They diagnose and resolve any hardware, software, networking, or system issues that arise and replace and upgrade any defective or outdated components if appropriate. They monitor systems’ performance to ensure they are functioning smoothly and securely and research and recommend new approaches to improve the network computer system if requested. They provide technical support to employees and personnel, and document the processes employees need to follow to work within a computing system. Systems administrators need relevant degrees, including a bachelor's degree in computer science or a relevant field, a diploma in information systems or information technology, and familiarity with SQL and database operations.
- Provide support for implementation, troubleshooting and maintenance of IT systems.
- Configure, manage and monitor storage systems.
- Install, configure, manage and maintain Linux server based applications.
- Work with key users to resolve system problems and issues.
- Make recommendations to purchase hardware, software, and system components.
- Provide training for both internal clients and peers as needed.
- Develop and monitor systems, network, and security policies and standards.
- Establish, manage, and assist in system and user documentation.
- Assist in the analysis, design and development of new technology.
- Assist with the design and testing of network models.
- Ensure all appropriate asset management functions are completed as required.
- Identify, recommend, and implement alternative approaches when required.
- Maintain and monitor the backup and disaster recovery solutions of systems.
- Interface with site Help Desk and trouble reporting system.
- Assist with documentation of departmental procedures and project work.
- Setup detailed user access control and system security at object level.
- Maintain up to date system documentation for all responsible systems.
- Provide system support to personnel administering or develop applications.
- Degree or certificate in computer science, information systems, information technology, or software engineering.
- Fluent in a variety of programs and software.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Active Directory, PowerShell, Vista, Sharepoint, and Office Suite.
- Experience with scripting, problem solving, and enterprise resource planning.
Systems Administrator Salaries near Canada
Average Base Pay
Systems Administrator Career Path
Learn how to become a Systems Administrator, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Systems Administrator Insights
Ilantus Technologies“You get to learn a lot of things here which includes both personal and professional development.”
Gatestone & Co.“My tasks are pretty set and I appreciate it that my boss doesn’t micromanage.”
Evision Technoserve“It was a high quality learning experience and I am very satisfied with the CCNA course which I have enrolled.”
Tietoevry“Junior positions to start your career path and possibilities to grow and find your specialization.”
NSW Department of Education and Communities “No promotion and you have to prove if you are worth to have salary raise.”
Milan Laser“Minor day to day growing pains but this is a really great place to work.”
USI Insurance Services“Working for an insurance company you would assume you would get great insurance but not the case.”
“Management had quiet less exectives but the quality seems the best they hired for them.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of systems administrators
A systems administrator spends each day determining a company's computer system needs, installing hardware and software, and maintaining network security. They also make sure every employee's workstation works efficiently and stays connected to the central computer network as well as troubleshoots any related issues if they arise.
A benefit of being a systems administrator is that they work independently and as part of a team, so they experience the best of both worlds and have a varied work environment. The demand for systems administrators is expected to increase as companies opt to invest in newer and faster technology networks. This may make it easier to find a systems administrator job.
The average base salary for systems administrators in Canada is $77,225 per year depending on the location and years of experience. Those who have obtained additional education and training can make up to $95,310 per year.
Working as a systems administrator can be challenging at times, especially when the computer network is experiencing issues. Professionals need to be up to date about the latest developments in network technology, so they might need to take courses and attend conferences. Systems administrators usually work a traditional workday, but they might need to be available after hours or on weekends to troubleshoot issues.