Careers
Network Administrator
This Network Administrator is an IT professional who is responsible for the day to day operations of the computer network of an organization. Depending on the organization Network Administrators may be working with such elements as desktop PC’s, file servers, mail servers, backup servers and more. A related role for Network Administrators may concentrate on network design and security.
Day to Day Duties:
- Install and configure new computer equipment, servers, and software
- Troubleshoot day to day problems and other needs with networked equipment
- Evaluate the need for upgrades or replacements of current technology and software
- Consulting with vendors, suppliers, front-line employees, and management personnel.
Average Salary*: Median Salary: $41,000-$58,000
Career Prospects:
Network security and new technologies, such as wireless, virtual private networks, and broadband and fiber will be more prevalent in the future. Biometrics will also be an important area that will emerge and which will provide network security by fingerprint and retinal scans. When the economy rebounds, there should be even more of these jobs available than before the downturn. The use of computers and computer networks is expected to continue to increase well into the next century, providing plenty of jobs for the people who keep the networks running. Most medium and large companies like Network Administrators in their Information Systems or Information Technology departments.
The US Bureau of Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009 Edition (http://www.bls.gov/oco/oco2003.htm) points out that:
“Employment in computer systems design and related services will grow by 38.3 percent and add nearly one-fourth of all new jobs in professional, scientific, and technical services. Employment growth will be driven by the increasing reliance of businesses on information technology and the continuing importance of maintaining system and network security. Management, scientific, and technical consulting services also will grow at a staggering 78 percent and account for another third of growth in this supersector. Demand for these services will be spurred by the increased use of new technology and computer software and the growing complexity of business.”
