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Entry Level Network Administrator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

E Logic

Junior Security Engineer

Baltimore, MD · Remote

$75K/yr

... * Assist systems administrators and cloud engineers in tracking patch schedules, verifying ... Basic familiarity with cloud security principles, network protocols, and standard security ...

The US Oncology Network

APP I

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$89K - $137K/yr

May serve as direct caregiver, health care consultant, patient educator, administrator, or ... This position is entry-level and typically requires a minimum of 0-3 years post MSN experience ...

Chenega Mios

VTC Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

Collaborate with network and systems administrators to optimize VTC performance. * Document issues ... From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe there's always room to learn. We offer ...

Chenega MIOS

VTC Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

Collaborate with network and systems administrators to optimize VTC performance. * Document issues ... From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe there's always room to learn. We offer ...

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All JobsNetwork Administrator JobsEntry Level Network Administrator JobsEntry Level Network Administrator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Entry Level Network Administrator information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$34.6K

$84.5K

$128.2K

How much do entry level network administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network administrator in Silver Spring, MD is $84,510.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,700.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a network administrator?

Entry-level network administrators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring an associate's or bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Relevant certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA can enhance job prospects, and strong problem-solving skills along with knowledge of networking protocols and operating systems are essential.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level network administrators during their first year on the job?

Entry level network administrators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unfamiliar network issues, adapting to organization-specific protocols, and balancing multiple support requests simultaneously. Learning to efficiently document changes and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical staff is also crucial. With time, gaining confidence in using network monitoring tools and responding to security alerts becomes easier, and many organizations provide mentorship or structured training to help new administrators succeed.

What Does an Entry-Level Network Administrator Do?

As an entry-level network administrator, your job is to learn how to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair a network system. To accomplish this, you may purchase and replace hardware, train with the company's existing software, and provide service to either customers or coworkers. As an entry-level employee, your primary job is learning about your company's systems, which may frequently involve watching other administrators and providing minor support to a customer. Most companies use this position as a training role with the intention of promoting you to a full network administrator after you meet their criteria. Entry-level network administrators often use software to monitor network performance and analyze traffic.

How to become a network administrator with no experience?

To become an entry-level network administrator with no experience, focus on gaining foundational knowledge of networking concepts, protocols, and hardware through online courses or self-study. Earning certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA can demonstrate your skills to employers, and gaining hands-on experience through labs, internships, or volunteering can improve your prospects.

Can I become a sysadmin without a degree?

Entry level network administrators can often enter the field without a degree by gaining relevant certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA, and developing practical skills through hands-on experience. Employers may prioritize skills, certifications, and experience over formal education for these roles.

What does an Entry Level Network Administrator do?

An Entry Level Network Administrator is responsible for supporting and maintaining an organization’s computer networks. Their tasks typically include monitoring network performance, troubleshooting connectivity issues, setting up network hardware, and assisting with network security measures. They work under the supervision of more experienced IT staff to ensure reliable and efficient network operations. This role is a great starting point for those looking to build a career in network administration or IT.

What is the difference between Entry Level Network Administrator vs Network Technician?

AspectEntry Level Network AdministratorNetwork Technician
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (optional)CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA (optional)
Work EnvironmentNetwork management, configuration, troubleshooting, and monitoringHardware setup, cabling, on-site troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, service providers, corporate networksTelecom companies, ISPs, enterprise networks

Both roles often require similar certifications like CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA. While a Network Technician focuses more on hardware and physical network setup, an Entry Level Network Administrator handles network configuration, management, and troubleshooting. The roles are complementary, with the administrator overseeing network health and the technician implementing physical infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Network Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Network Administrator, you need a fundamental understanding of networking concepts, TCP/IP protocols, and at least an associate degree or relevant certification such as CompTIA Network+. Familiarity with network management tools, basic command-line utilities, and operating systems like Windows and Linux is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you diagnose and resolve network issues efficiently. These skills ensure reliable network operations and support the organization's IT infrastructure needs.

Is network administrator an entry-level role?

A network administrator role can be entry-level, especially for those with basic knowledge of networking concepts, operating systems, and certifications like CompTIA Network+. However, many positions require some prior experience or technical skills, and advanced roles often demand additional certifications or experience. Entry-level positions typically involve supporting existing networks and learning on the job.
More about Entry Level Network Administrator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Administrator jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Network Administrator jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Entry Level Network Administrator jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Entry Level Network Administrator job openings:
Entry Level Network Administrator jobs near you

Entry Level Systems Administrator (VISTA), BS or HS+5

LinkLLC

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
LinkLLC is seeking an Entry Level Systems Administrator to join their Systems Administration team. The role involves supporting system administration tasks, documenting processes, and ensuring compliance with required certifications.
Responsibilities:
• Well written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to ticket and document as needed.
• Active IAT II CWIP / DoD 8570 compliant cert (i.e., Security+), or obtained within 90 days of starting.
• Active RedHat Certified Systems Administrator (RHCSA) or better or obtained within 90 days of starting.
• The ability to lift 50lbs overhead to support racking hardware in server racks.
• Experience writing and modifying bash scripts.
• Experience with entering commands in a Linux operating system.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Well written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to ticket and document as needed.
• Active IAT II CWIP / DoD 8570 compliant cert (i.e., Security+), or obtained within 90 days of starting.
• Active RedHat Certified Systems Administrator (RHCSA) or better or obtained within 90 days of starting.
• The ability to lift 50lbs overhead to support racking hardware in server racks.
• Experience writing and modifying bash scripts.
• Experience with entering commands in a Linux operating system.
Preferred:
• L2/L3 network experience
• NFS or S3 storage appliances
• puppet
• ansible
• git
• VMware
• more Linux
Company:
We engineer lasting solutions in partnership with our clients, to protect our nation's security information/systems and infrastructure and to defend our country and interests. Founded in , the company is headquartered in Annapolis Junction , Maryland, US, , with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.

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