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Systems Administrator

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A Systems Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organisation's computer systems and networks. This includes installing and updating software, ensuring security through firewalls and antivirus programmes, monitoring system performance, and troubleshooting any problems that arise. Systems Administrators work across many sectors, such as education, finance, healthcare, and government, ensuring that IT infrastructure runs smoothly and efficiently. They may also be involved in planning for future technology needs, supporting staff with technical issues, and documenting system changes. Good problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and strong communication abilities are important in this role.

Systems Administrator

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for a Systems Administrator in the UK is around £35,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning up to £50,000 or more.

Job Openings

There are approximately 6,000 to 8,000 job postings for Systems Administrators in the UK at any given time.

Typical Working Hours

Most Systems Administrators work standard office hours, but about 25 percent may need to work evenings or weekends to perform maintenance or resolve urgent issues.

🚀 Careers in this path

Linux Systems Administrator

Specialises in managing and supporting computer systems running on the Linux operating system for organisations.

Windows Server Administrator

Focuses on installing, configuring and maintaining Windows-based servers and networks for businesses.

Cloud Systems Administrator

Manages cloud-based systems and services, such as Microsoft Azure or Amazon Web Services, ensuring secure and reliable access for users.

Develop IT Foundations

Study Computer Science or IT Subjects

Take GCSEs and A-levels in ICT, Computing, or related subjects to gain essential knowledge.

Subjects like Computer Science, Maths, and Physics can help you understand the basics of how computer systems work. You can also consider BTEC qualifications in IT or Computing as alternatives to A-levels.

Gain Basic IT Experience

Build experience by volunteering or helping with school or community IT systems.

You might help set up networks, troubleshoot basic issues, or maintain software at your school, library, or local community centre. This hands-on experience will help you develop practical skills and confidence.

Get Qualified and Certified

Complete Further Education

Pursue a degree, HND, or apprenticeship in IT, Computer Science, or Network Engineering.

University courses often include modules on networking, cyber security, and systems administration. Alternatively, higher or degree apprenticeships offer paid, real-world experience alongside study.

Gain Industry Certifications

Obtain IT certifications such as CompTIA A Plus, CompTIA Network Plus, or Microsoft Certified.

These certifications are widely recognised by employers and prove your technical skills in key areas such as hardware, networking, and operating systems. Entry-level certificates like CompTIA A Plus are a good starting point for beginners.

Build Professional Experience

Find an Entry Level IT Job

Apply for roles such as IT Support Technician or Junior Systems Administrator.

These roles offer valuable experience working with real systems and solving technical problems. You will also learn workplace skills and get to know the typical IT infrastructure used in organisations.

Progress to Systems Administrator Roles

After gaining experience, apply for Systems Administrator positions and take on more responsibility.

Continue learning about new technologies, security practices, and network management. With experience, you may specialise in areas such as cloud computing, security, or virtualisation.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Systems Administrator. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

Career Progressions

This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.

Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.

Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.

These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!

Sample Qualifications

A Systems Administrator and a Systems Analyst both possess technical expertise related to computer systems, networks, and software. While the Systems Administrator focuses more on the maintenance and management of systems, both roles require a strong understanding of IT infrastructure and problem-solving skills, making them closely aligned in qualifications.

How to become

You could get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

University

You could do a degree in a relevant subject like:

  • computer science
  • information management systems
  • business information systems
  • maths and operational research

Some universities offer a degree in Information Technology Management for Business. This degree is Tech Industry Gold accredited.

Postgraduate courses

If you have a degree that's not in an IT or computer subject, you could complete a postgraduate course.

You should choose one which focuses on business and computer skills.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

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Apprenticeship

You could do either an information systems business analyst higher apprenticeship or a digital and technology solutions degree apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

Work

You could start with any job in IT or business then build up your experience and qualifications while working.

You could train online or attend short intensive courses with IT training organisations. You'll need some computer and business skills.

More Information

Professional and industry bodies

You may find it helpful to get a business analysis certification to show your skills and expertise once you're working.

Further information

You can find out more about working and training in computing from The Chartered Institute for IT and techskills.

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