Systems Administrator

Also known as: Network Administrator

Job Role: Helps install and manage network hardware and data bases so rail systems run smoothly.

Job insights

Skills required to be a Systems Administrator

  • Strong communication skills
  • Work under pressure
  • Analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Problem solving
  • Ability to assess and plan
  • Leadership skills
  • Ability to work well in a team

Job role

Inspecting, testing and monitoring, Instruct and coordinate staff, Administrative tasks, Identify and manage risks, Digital, data and systems management

Overview
Skills required
Entry pathways
Career progression
What do I do next?
System administrator standing in front of a bank of computer hardware
Overview

The role

Systems Administrators upgrade, install and configure software and hardware, performing backups and managing virus control protection.

Tasks include:
• Managing databases
• Troubleshooting and providing support to employees
• Creating and managing system permissions and user accounts.
• Diagnosing and resolving hardware, software, networking and systems issues as they arise.
System administrator standing in front of a bank of computer hardware
Skills required

Skills required to be a Systems Administrator

  • Advanced programming skills
  • Logical thinking and problem solving
  • Excellent organisation, time management and prioritisation
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills
Entry pathways

Minimum requirements

People entering the industry generally have an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in areas such as systems administration.

Alternatively, a VET qualification such as a Diploma of Information Technology or an Advanced Diploma of Information Technology can potentially be suitable for entry-level roles.

There are also a wide range of vendor and industry certifications available that may substitute for formal qualifications or be desired by some employers in addition to formal qualifications.

Career progression
Flow chart showing possible career progression for a Systems Administrator
What do I do next?

What do I do next?

For more information on becoming an Systems Administrator: 

  • find out more about Network Administrators on the Work in Rail website
  • talk to your careers adviser 
  • check out programs available at your local TAFE or university
  • if you already work in rail, talk to your employer.