How much does a Systems Administrator make?
A Systems Administrator plays a key role in keeping computer systems and networks running smoothly. They handle tasks like installing software, managing user accounts, and ensuring security. This important job comes with a good salary. On average, a Systems Administrator earns about $98,014 per year. This number can vary based on experience, skills, and location.
The salary for Systems Administrators can range widely. The lowest 10% earn around $51,723, while the highest 10% make over $175,000. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:
- 10% earn less than $51,723
- 20% earn between $51,723 and $63,019
- 30% earn between $63,019 and $74,315
- 40% earn between $74,315 and $85,611
- 50% earn between $85,611 and $96,907
- 60% earn between $96,907 and $108,203
- 70% earn between $108,203 and $119,499
- 80% earn between $119,499 and $130,795
- 90% earn between $130,795 and $142,091
- 95% earn between $142,091 and $153,387
- 99% earn less than $164,683
What are the highest paying cities for a Systems Administrator?
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $118,025
In San Jose, tech giants like Cisco and Intel offer exciting opportunities for IT professionals. The city's vibrant tech scene provides a dynamic environment for those managing and maintaining complex systems.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $113,501
Working in Washington, DC, means collaborating with federal agencies and tech firms. The city offers a unique blend of government and private sector roles, making it ideal for those interested in both.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Washington, DC
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $112,977
San Francisco is home to major tech companies such as Apple and Salesforce. Professionals here enjoy a fast-paced environment with cutting-edge technology and innovative projects.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $110,204
Seattle offers a mix of tech startups and established companies like Amazon and Microsoft. The city's tech-friendly atmosphere provides many opportunities for growth and development.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $107,108
In Colorado Springs, defense and aerospace companies like Lockheed Martin provide specialized roles. The city's focus on technology and defense offers unique challenges and opportunities.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
-
Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $105,224
Baltimore has a growing tech scene with companies like Under Armour and Black & Decker. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern IT roles in a supportive environment.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Baltimore, MD
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $104,572
San Diego's tech industry includes companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms. The city offers a mix of tech and life sciences roles in a beautiful coastal setting.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $104,541
Boulder is known for its outdoor lifestyle and tech companies like Google and IBM. The city offers a unique blend of nature and technology, making it a great place to work.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Boulder, CO
-
Salem, OR
Average Salary: $102,642
Salem offers a mix of government and private sector roles with companies like Nike and Intel. The city provides a stable environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Salem, OR
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $102,150
Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and tech, with companies like Disney and Amazon. The city offers a diverse range of roles in a dynamic and creative environment.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Los Angeles, CA
What are the best companies a Systems Administrator can work for?
-
Inferno Systems, Inc.
Average Salary: $239,286
Inferno Systems, Inc. offers exciting opportunities for Systems Administrators. They focus on providing innovative solutions for their clients. The company operates in various locations, including the United States and Canada.
-
Praxis Engineering
Average Salary: $210,952
Praxis Engineering is known for its cutting-edge technology and dynamic work environment. Systems Administrators here play a key role in maintaining their systems. The company operates in several locations across the United States.
-
Captivation Software
Average Salary: $200,000
Captivation Software values skilled Systems Administrators who can ensure their systems run smoothly. They operate in multiple locations, providing a diverse work experience. Their focus is on delivering high-quality software solutions.
-
DCI Solutions
Average Salary: $193,571
DCI Solutions offers a competitive salary for Systems Administrators. They are committed to innovation and excellence. The company operates in various locations, providing a broad range of opportunities for professionals.
-
Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Average Salary: $154,219
Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory provides a unique environment for Systems Administrators. They work on cutting-edge projects and research. The company operates in several locations, offering a dynamic and challenging work experience.
-
Penske Truck Leasing
Average Salary: $152,396
Penske Truck Leasing offers a rewarding career for Systems Administrators. They focus on providing reliable and efficient services. The company operates in multiple locations, offering a stable and supportive work environment.
-
Peterson Technologies
Average Salary: $142,864
Peterson Technologies values skilled Systems Administrators who can help maintain their systems. They operate in several locations, providing a diverse and engaging work experience. Their focus is on delivering high-quality technology solutions.
-
BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $136,712
BAE Systems USA offers a competitive salary for Systems Administrators. They focus on providing innovative solutions for their clients. The company operates in multiple locations, offering a dynamic and challenging work environment.
-
PayPal
Average Salary: $136,683
PayPal offers a rewarding career for Systems Administrators. They work on ensuring the smooth operation of their systems. The company operates in several locations, providing a stable and supportive work environment.
-
Piper Companies
Average Salary: $133,130
Piper Companies offers a competitive salary for Systems Administrators. They focus on providing reliable and efficient services. The company operates in multiple locations, offering a dynamic and engaging work experience.
How to earn more as a Systems Administrator?
A Systems Administrator can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized skills and certifications can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Certifications from recognized organizations like CompTIA, Cisco, or Microsoft can set a Systems Administrator apart from the competition. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies will also make a professional more valuable to employers. Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation.
Experience plays a crucial role in salary negotiations. Working in various environments can provide a broader understanding of different systems and technologies. This experience can make a Systems Administrator more versatile and attractive to potential employers. Taking on leadership roles or projects that require advanced problem-solving skills can also lead to higher pay. Employers often value employees who can demonstrate their ability to manage and lead teams effectively. Seeking out roles that offer growth opportunities and responsibilities can lead to significant salary increases over time.
Location and industry can also impact earning potential. Certain regions and industries may offer higher salaries due to the demand for skilled Systems Administrators. Researching job markets and understanding the economic factors that influence salaries can help professionals make informed decisions about where to work. Additionally, transitioning to industries with a higher demand for IT professionals, such as finance, healthcare, or technology, can lead to better compensation packages.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Systems Administrator:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Gain diverse experience in different environments.
- Take on leadership roles and advanced projects.
- Research job markets and economic factors.
- Transition to high-demand industries.
