NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR

 

NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR

Network administrators oversee the information technology sector of specific companies or government agencies.  Network administrators design and maintain technological networks, providing guidance to colleagues on how to use network features.  This helps ensure that efficient data storage and communication occurs through use of these networks.  However, while network administrators are usually one of the most technologically advanced people in the workplace, it is very possible that one could become overwhelmed with the technical issues of the business.  Therefore, they are often part of a larger, computer-related operational staff which assist in technical support.  

If a company uses more than one computer to carry out daily tasks, chances are the company has a network administrator on payroll.  Companies/agencies will likely be using computer networks for many years to come; non-tech workers/people with no technological background will always need support on how to efficiently use computer networks.  It is likely for this reason that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a steady 5% job growth rate in network administration in the coming years (Staff, ComputerScience.org).

Soft skills: 

• Communication skills

• Creative problem-solving

• Organizational skills

• Interpersonal skills (dependability, confidence, etc.)

• Multitasking

Hard Skills:

Network administrators require a variety of technical skills depending on their specific profession in network administration.  While network administration is its own profession, there are a variety of mediums that can be used.  For example, a network administrator can be a computer programmer, a software developer, a computer network architect, etc.  However, the nature of their responsibilities while using these mediums is what makes one a network administrator.  While many network administration professions are very similar, the hard skills may change slightly to fit the medium of network administration.

Average Salary:

• Entry-level (0-12 months): $48,899

• Early career (1-4 years): $52,472

• Midcareer (5-9 years): $59,576

• Experienced (10-19 years): $64,827 (Staff, ComputerScience.org)