The system administrator manages the servers of an organization

System administrator (whether it is a company, an association, an administration) while ensuring their security. 

He is called upon to analyze, implement, operate and manage software, telecommunications, networks and computer systems at all stages of a life cycle.

Main tasks

Everything related to servers! That is to say installation and uninstallation, configuration, maintenance, updates and backups ... More precisely: high paying entry level jobs  

Install software, patches and updates to operating systems;

Analyze, diagnose and resolve system equipment, software and network problems;

Configure, optimize, tune and monitor operating system software and servers;

Ensure system backups and recoveries;

Complete server updates.

Note that the tasks may vary depending on whether it is a small or a large structure.

The functions of the system administrator can be more or less extensive, and the position can be internal or external. In some cases, it will be there from the design stage of the network or it will have to work on an already existing network.

Training

Employers often look for a candidate with a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, but some employers may accept a college degree or technical training certificate. 

In short, there is not a single clear path that leads to this career. The main thing is to love computers, mathematics and logic!

Here are some general training courses:

A university course (example: Bachelor's degree in computer science and software engineering);

Computer training concluded with a college diploma (DEC);

An attestation of collegial studies (AEC) in computer science;

A vocational studies diploma (DEP) in IT support.

Many system administrators then specialize in specific software and operating systems during their experiments.

Skills

The systems administrator has problem solving, analytical and communication skills in addition to in-depth technical knowledge of the employer's computer systems and software.

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) or Sun Certified System Administrator (SCSA) certifications are assets for employers.

A quick overview of the essential qualities that will allow you to shine in the profession!

Excellent IT culture

Very good knowledge of internet technologies and operating systems

Managerial qualities

Rigor and thoroughness

Versatility and good adaptability

Availability (we may have to resolve problems at any time)

The sense of responsibilities

Good analytical skills.

Salary

According to Statistics Canada, system administrators earn about $ 17 an hour to $ 47 an hour. The average wage is $ 31 an hour.

As for Métiers Québec, the annual salary of an intermediate systems or network administrator with 10 years of experience was estimated in 2018 at $ 61,000, and $ 80,100 for a senior administrator with the same experience. 

Needs in Quebec

Statistics Canada and Emploi Quebec agree that employment prospects are good in this trade.

As for the workplaces that a system administrator can integrate, the possibilities are endless since IT is essential in most professional fields!

According to Emploi d'avenir Québec, the profession of system administrator is in greater demand in these regions: Montérégie, large regions of Quebec and Montreal.