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Entry Level Network Administrator Jobs in Timonium, MD

TEKsystems

Helpdesk Support Specialist

Columbia, MD

$21 - $23/hr

Windows OS- Troubleshoot basic functions, printing, network connectivity, access to file shares ... Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Columbia ...

TEKsystems

Helpdesk Support Specialist

Columbia, MD

$21 - $23/hr

Windows OS- Troubleshoot basic functions, printing, network connectivity, access to file shares ... Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Columbia ...

All JobsNetwork Administrator JobsEntry Level Network Administrator JobsEntry Level Network Administrator Jobs in Timonium, MD

Entry Level Network Administrator information

See Timonium, MD salary details

$32.2K

$78.5K

$119.1K

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network administrator in Timonium, MD is $78,550.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $89,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level network administrator?

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.

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 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.

Is it hard to get a network administrator job?

Entry level network administrator positions can be competitive, but having relevant certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA, along with foundational knowledge of networking concepts and experience with network hardware, can improve your chances. Employers often look for practical skills and a willingness to learn, making it accessible for candidates with the right training and credentials.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level network administrator?

An entry-level network administrator typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with foundational knowledge of networking concepts. Certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA can improve job prospects, and familiarity with network hardware, operating systems, and troubleshooting tools is often required.
More about Entry Level Network Administrator jobs

What cities near Timonium, MD are hiring for Entry Level Network Administrator jobs?

Cities near Timonium, MD with the most Entry Level Network Administrator job openings:

Entry Level Network Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Administrator job openings in Timonium, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,550 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Desktop Services System Administrator (Level I and II)

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

TAP Engineering
See more jobs at TAP Engineeringexternal

$83K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Desktop Services System Administrator
Job ID: TAP00146
Position: System Admin Level I / II
Location: Fort Meade, MD
Category: Technical
Clearance Requirement: Active TS/SCI with Polygraph (most recent poly within the last 7 years)
Certification Requirement: DoD 8570 IAT II (Required)
Education Requirement: B.S in technical discipline
Experience Requirement: Level I: 3+ with degree, 8+ without degree. Level II: 5+ with degree, 10+ without.
Compensation Range: $83,000 - $158,000
Position Overview
TAP Engineering is seeking System Administrators at the I and II levels to provide Infrastructure Server and Desktop Sustainment services in support of High Performance Computing (HPC) environments. This role enhances and complements HPC sustainment capabilities across two geographically dispersed locations, supporting mission-critical desktop, workstation, and peripheral infrastructure.
This position focuses on the deployment, integration, configuration, tuning, and operational support of custom Linux-based workstations, peripheral hardware, and desktop ecosystem components in a secure, fast-paced environment.
Technical Environment
  • Custom Linux-based workstations and desktops
  • Enterprise desktop and workstation hardware
  • Monitors and display systems
  • KVM switches
  • Peripheral devices (keyboards, mice, media converters, etc.)
  • Printers and multifunction devices (HP, Dell, Lexmark, etc.)
  • Structured cabling (Ethernet, fiber, serial, VGA, DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.)
  • Client/server, storage, and network devices
  • Linux, Unix, and Windows operating systems
Key Responsibilities (All Levels)
  • Provide support for the implementation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of IT systems
  • Support installation, deployment, integration, configuration, tuning, and operational support of workstation hardware and peripherals
  • Perform day-to-day system operations, monitoring, and incident response
  • Manage daily configuration and operational health of desktop systems
  • Assist users with accessing and using IT systems
  • Provide Tier 1 and Tier 2 support based on experience level
  • Escalate issues appropriately and communicate status to Government and internal stakeholders
  • Support dispatch operations for hardware issues and remain involved through resolution
  • Optimize system performance and resource utilization
  • Support system capacity analysis and planning
  • Maintain accurate system documentation and operational records
  • Follow Government-defined ticketing, change management, and operational procedures
Level Differentiation
System Administrator I (Entry-Level)
Focus: Execution, Tier 1 support, and foundational desktop operations
  • Performs routine desktop and workstation support tasks under supervision
  • Provides Tier 1 (Help Desk) support and basic Tier 2 escalation assistance
  • Supports installation and configuration of workstations and peripherals
  • Assists users with system access and basic troubleshooting
  • Performs standard maintenance, patching, and documentation
  • Supports cabling, hardware setup, and device integration
  • Escalates complex issues to mid-level administrators
System Administrator II (Mid-Level)
Focus: Independent operations, Tier 2 ownership, and advanced troubleshooting
  • Independently administers desktop and workstation environments
  • Provides Tier 1 and Tier 2 support, including advanced troubleshooting
  • Performs root cause analysis and remediation
  • Manages daily configuration and operational health of desktop systems
  • Supports Linux, Unix, and Windows desktop environments
  • Executes system deployments, upgrades, and transitions
  • Provides detailed analysis and feedback for escalated incidents
  • Supports dispatch operations for hardware-related issues
  • Configures and manages operating systems and device integrations
  • Implements system enhancements to improve reliability and performance
  • Serves as an escalation point for junior administrators
 Required Qualifications (All Levels)
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with Full Scope Polygraph (most recent poly within the last 7 years)
  • DoD 8570 IAT II certification
  • Experience supporting desktop or workstation environments
  • Experience supporting Linux-based or Unix-based systems
  • Familiarity with enterprise IT infrastructure
  • Strong troubleshooting and documentation skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a 24/7 operational environment (as required)
  • Ability to collaborate with Government and contractor personnel
Benefits Overview
TAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
  • Paid Time Off: 15–25 days annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays (never use-or-lose)
  • Retirement: Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing
  • Medical Coverage: Free medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents
  • Dental & Vision: Employer-paid plans with optional enhancements
  • Insurance Coverage: Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework
  • Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support
  • Performance-Based Rewards: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses
Clearance Requirement
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance with Full Scope Polygraph, based on a current Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI/SBI). Clearance and polygraph processing will be completed by the U.S. Government.
Factors considered for U.S. Government security clearance eligibility include, but are not limited to:
  • U.S. citizenship
  • Favorable criminal history review
  • Education verification
  • Drug and substance use review
  • Credit history review
  • Subject interview
Additional Information
By submitting your resume for this position, you acknowledge and agree that TAP Engineering may share your resume and related application materials with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for consideration for other available positions.
TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
 

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