Occupation Details
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Install, configure, and maintain an organization's local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), data communications network, operating systems, and physical and virtual servers. Perform system monitoring and verify the integrity and availability of hardware, network, and server resources and systems. Review system and application logs and verify completion of scheduled jobs, including system backups. Analyze network and server resource consumption and control user access. Install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses. May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Investigative
Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Conventional
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Work Values
Achievement
Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
Working Conditions
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
Support
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$68,400.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$102,110.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$124,890.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
25,610
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
29,920
+431 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
2,208
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.2%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
Degree Needed - Four-year college
Experience Requirements
A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
Education Requirements
Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Training Details
Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, conservation scientists, art directors, and cost estimators.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Contact your regional representative to learn more about apprenticeships available in your area by visiting Apprenticeship Contacts.
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Systems Analysis
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Troubleshooting
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Systems Evaluation
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- Asynchronous transfer mode ATM analyzers
- Bit error rate testers BERT
- Cable verifiers
- Communications analyzers
- Computer tool kits
- Desktop computers
- Load balancers
- Mainframe computers
- Network analyzers
- Network switches
- Notebook computers
- Optical spectrum analyzers
- Optical time domain reflectometers OTDR
- Powerline monitors
- Protocol analyzers
- Punchdown tools
- Redundant array of independent disks RAID systems
- Screwdrivers
- T-Birds
- Tape libraries
Technology
- AJAX
- Access management software
- Active directory software
- Adexa eGPS Suite
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe Systems Adobe ActionScript
- Adobe Systems Adobe Dreamweaver
- Adobe Systems Adobe Fireworks
- Advanced business application programming ABAP
- Amazon DynamoDB
- Amazon Redshift
- Amazon Simple Storage Service S3
- Amazon Web Services AWS CloudFormation
- Amazon Web Services AWS software
- Ansible software
- Apache Ant
Duties
Job duties information is not available for this occupation.
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Maintain and administer computer networks and related computing environments, including computer hardware, systems software, applications software, and all configurations.
- Perform data backups and disaster recovery operations.
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve hardware, software, or other network and system problems, and replace defective components when necessary.
- Configure, monitor, and maintain email applications or virus protection software.
- Operate master consoles to monitor the performance of computer systems and networks and to coordinate computer network access and use.
- Monitor network performance to determine whether adjustments are needed and where changes will be needed in the future.
- Plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures to protect data, software, and hardware.
- Analyze equipment performance records to determine the need for repair or replacement.
- Implement and provide technical support for voice services and equipment, such as private branch exchange, voice mail system, and telecom system.
- Recommend changes to improve systems and network configurations, and determine hardware or software requirements related to such changes.
- Confer with network users about solutions to existing system problems.
- Design, configure, and test computer hardware, networking software and operating system software.
- Perform routine network startup and shutdown procedures, and maintain control records.
- Load computer tapes and disks, and install software and printer paper or forms.
- Train people in computer system use.
- Maintain logs related to network functions, as well as maintenance and repair records.
- Gather data pertaining to customer needs, and use the information to identify, predict, interpret, and evaluate system and network requirements.
- Coordinate with vendors and with company personnel to facilitate purchases.
- Maintain an inventory of parts for emergency repairs.
- Research new technologies by attending seminars, reading trade articles, or taking classes, and implement or recommend the implementation of new technologies.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
Alliance of Technology and Women (ATW)
Alliance of Technology and Women (ATW) supports women and men worldwide who share the common interests of empowering women in technology, increasing the number of women in executive roles and encouraging women and girls to enter technology fields.
Learn MoreAlliance of Technology and Women (ATW): ATW Tech Valley Albany, NY Chapter
The ATW supports women and men worldwide who share the common interests of empowering women in technology, increasing the number of women in executive roles and encouraging women and girls to enter technology fields. The NY Tech Valley Chapter provides programs for women and girls that enrich, educate and inform.
Learn MoreAssociation for Women in Science (AWIS)
The Association for Women in Science (AWIS) is dedicated to achieving equity and full participation for women in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. AWIS is a network, a resource, and a voice that operates on both national and local levels.
Learn MoreCisco Academy at Schenectady High
Schenectady High is one of the first 10 Cisco networking academies in the country. To complement the Cisco academy offerings, the business department at Schenectady High also provides classes in Excel and PowerPoint so that students can be certified as Microsoft Office specialists. This program teaches Schenectady High School students to design, build and maintain computer networks.
Learn MoreDigiGirlz High Technology Camps
DigiGirlz High Tech Camp, sponsored by Microsoft, is a technology camp for girls.The goal is to educate and inspire girls by introducing them to the considerable opportunities and career choices available in the high-tech industry. Stony Brook, NY , one of several sites, is this years local llocation.
Learn MoreDigiPen Institute of Technology Project Fun
DigiPen Institute of Technology, the leader in video game development education, presents a summer workshop series designed to introduce participants of all experience levels to the fundamentals of game programming, 3D computer animation and robotics. These workshops are designed to give high school and middle school students an opportunity to explore the possibility of having a career either in game programming, 3D computer animation or computer engineering. Video Game Programming Level One is offered in New York City.
Learn MoreGenesee Community College NSF Technology Opportunity Pathway (TOP) Scholarship
Under the College's NSF Technology Opportunity Pathway (TOP) program, students who are enrolled full-time in the following career (AAS) and transfer (AS) programs may apply for a TOP Scholarship:Computer Information Systems (AS),Computer Systems and Network Technologies (AAS),Computer Support and Operations (AAS),Engineering Science (AS),Drafting (AAS) and Liberal Arts: Math / Science (AS)
Learn MoreIntel Education Initiative K12
Education is critical to each citizen's ability to thrive in the knowledge economy. Today's students must develop key 21st century skills such as familiarity with information and communication technology (ICT), problem solving, critical thinking and collaboration so they are able to function in, and shape, the world ahead. Intel Education Initiative links to innovative ways to use technology and promote critical 21st century skills - in the classroom or in the community.
Learn MoreInternational Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
ISTE provides leadership and service to improve teaching, learning, and school leadership by advancing the effective use of technology in PK to 12 and teacher education.
Learn MoreInternet Science and Technology Fair (ISTF)
ISTF is a web based science and technology competition. Teams of students from across the U.S. compete for certificates awarded by the National Medal of Technology Program at the U.S. Department of Commerce .Students are challenged to use information and communication tools as they work as a team to complete a four-month research project, master email to request technical information from scientists and engineers, search, analyze and synthesize electronic information sources from the Internet and present their final research findings in a website format.
Learn MoreJourney Inside: Engaging Technology to Explain Technology
The Journey Inside is a collection of 35 interactive, online lessons for students to complete. The curriculum is divided into six sections: Introduction to Computers, Circuits and Switches, Digital Information, Microprocessors, The Internet, and Technology and Society. Many of the lessons include interactive Flash activities, virtual field trips, and videos demonstrating the ideas discussed.
Learn MoreKidSmart - A Guide to Early Learning and Technology for Home
This new website for early learning and technology is presented in nine languages. It includes a guide for parents to encourage early learning at home. This site will help you understand what's possible when it comes to young children and computer time.
Learn MoreKidSmart - A Guide to Early Learning and Technology for School
The computer is a relatively new arrival in many early childhood classrooms. This site will help you understand what's possible when it comes to young children and computer time. It includes introductions to important issues about teaching and learning with technology, practical discussions, concrete tips on evaluating software and useful aids for classroom management and real lesson plan ideas submitted by teachers.
Learn MoreMCC College for Kids
Among other interests, the camp allows students to cultivate an interest in science and technology, explore possible career areas, and discover the excitement of hands on lab work designing Lego robots, a pinhole camera, a periscope, and an engineering project.
Learn MoreMOUSE Squad
MOUSE Squad trains students to run their school's computer systems and thereby helping them not only to learn lifelong skills but also empowering them to expanding their schools capacity in the use of technology for education.
Learn MoreMarymount Science and Technology Camp
Led by professional science teachers and multimedia experts, the Science and Technology Camp is an innovative experience for any child interested in discovering the world of science through laboratory experiments, field trips, nature studies and technology. Highlights include bridge building, chemistry, biology and physics, robotics, video production, digital photography and more.
Learn MoreMildred Elley: Video Game Design Camp
If you're entering grade six through eleven, you can explore the world of video game production at a summer camp unlike any other. Learn how to make your video game ideas come to life. Design the sights, sounds and activities of your game. Learn the techniques used to create the kind of 3D world that makes a video game worth playing. Summer Programs July 9-August 22, 2007 If you?re entering grade six through eleven, you can explore the world of video game production at a summer camp unlike any other.
Learn MoreSUNY New Paltz Summer Camp: Mad Science Secret Agent Lab
Mad Science has sparked imaginative learning with their unique brand of engaging and educational live programs and activities. Secret Agent Lab - delve into the mysteries of forensic science! Discover different methods of secret writing and break coded messages in a quest for treasure. Explore the world of optics and make your own camera obscura and kaleidoscope. Use chemistry to identify mysterious substances, and mix your own chemical reactions.
Learn MoreScienCentral News: Making Sense of Science
From broadcast news features to educational products, ScienCentral News not only knows how to communicate complex ideas about medicine, health, technology, and the environment, but they also know how to tell a good story!
Learn MoreSummer at RIT:Kids on Campus
Choose Your Workshop! Animation with a Twist, Interactive Music Madness, Web Magic, Flash Puzzle Quest, Draw, Shoot, Animate, and Ultimate Web Comics are just a few fun topics available!
Learn MoreTech Valley Summer Camp
Tech Valley Summer Camp is an exciting opportunity in which girls and boys from local schools spend five days engaged in FUN, and exciting activities alongside professionals in the fields of Nanotechnology, Biotechnology, Advanced Materials, Alternative Energies, Information Technologies, and Multidisciplinary Engineering. Each day of the camp is hosted by a different Tech Valley business, organization, or university.
Learn MoreTechValleyCareers
The Center's mission is to support appropriate career development through the design and delivery of innovative resources and programs that prepare students for the 21st century workplace. is an online clearinghouse for information about high tech careers in the Greater Capital Region. Through this website, educators, students and parents are linked to education and career opportunities made possible by the high tech growth and expansion in Tech Valley.
Learn MoreTechnology Opportunity Pathway (TOP) Scholarship
Under the College's TOP program, students who are enrolled full time in the following career and transfer programs may apply for a TOP Scholarship:Computer Information Systems (AS),Computer Systems and Network Technologies (AAS),Computer Support and Operations (AAS),Engineering Science (AS),Drafting (AAS) and Liberal Arts, Math or Science (AS).
Learn More