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Entry Level Network Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

glwa

Infrastructure Administrator

Detroit, MI

We are looking for an Infrastructure Administrator (IA) to join our Process Control Center Team to ... Possess a technology-specific entry level certification (i.e. Comp TIA Networking+, Storage+ or ...

DR Horton, Inc.

Security Administrator

Arlington, TX · On-site

... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ... This position will work as part of a team of experienced System Administrators and Network ...

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Entry Level Network Administrator information

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$33.5K

$81.7K

$124K

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

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network administrator in the United States is $81,749.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $93,500.00 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.
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Entry Level Network Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Administrator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,749 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Infrastructure Administrator

glwa

Detroit, MI

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

We are looking for an Infrastructure Administrator (IA) to join our Process Control Center Team to administer the GLWA Operational Technology (OT) Network and/or Cybersecurity program. Our impressive team consist of highly dedicated, diligent and responsible Infrastructure Administrators, Engineers and Technicians that work closely together to ensure that the process control systems are robust and reliable. If you are looking for an opportunity to take a leadership role, committed and enjoy striving for excellence this could be your destination.

The Infrastructure Administrator will be designing, implementing, documenting and maintaining the GLWA OT network and/or cybersecurity program. You will also consult, lead and collaborate with others to provide solutions and recommendations which integrate with current and future process control systems. We serve 3.9 million Southeast Michigan Residents whose source for water is a GLWA system. Are you ready for a meaningful role on a team that provides the needed technology for the organization to be successful?

Responsibilities (not all-inclusive)
  • As the IA for our Process Control Center you will need to take ownership and responsibility of the system(s) that you administer.
  • Acknowledge and understand the consequences of unplanned outages in an OT environment and act accordingly
  • Be a good co-worker, sharing information, experiences and knowledge freely and openly to other team members
  • Pursue continuous education and learning for career growth
  • You will plan, design, and implement additions, upgrades, replacements, or retirements of network and cybersecurity components and applications.
  • Configuring SolarWinds and monitoring the network performance. Proactively addressing network issues to ensure reliability.
  • Configuring and monitor the SIEM and addressing all cybersecurity issues.
  • Patching and AV updates
  • Perform risk and vulnerability assessments
  • Development and enforcement of OT policy and Procedures.
  • Educate GLWA staff on cybersecurity awareness, policy and procedures.
  • Being on-call and available to respond to emergency situations
Required Education & Experience
  • Associate degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or related discipline
  • A minimum of one (1) year of experience as a Service Desk Analyst, IT Systems or Network Administrator; or combination of related work experience and education
  • Possess a technology-specific entry level certification (i.e. Comp TIA Networking+, Storage+ or Server+); Acquire and maintain vendor specific technology "associate" or "foundational" level certification (i.e. Cisco CCNA Routing Switching, EMC's Associate Certifications or Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) within two (2) years of Level 1 designation
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Troubleshooting
  • Network/Security Applications (Patch Management, Virus Protection, Anti Malware, Device Control, Vulnerability Assessments, Windows Active Directory, Cisco IOS, Solar winds)
  • Demonstrate judgment, independence, discretion, initiative, professionalism and the ability to maintain confidentiality, while resolving technology and user issues both verbally and in writing to end-users of varying computing skills
  • Understand and translate the needs of operations into OT technical requirements and deliver quality written and visual presentations, including the ability to make technology understandable to end-users
  • Knowledge of vendor specific Control System Applications (Database, Control Logic, Graphics and Reporting)
  • You will have a proven ability to communicate effectively, on order to communicate frequently with team members and other units across GLWA about process, equipment or potential problems as well as to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
Other Requirements:
  • A valid Michigan Driver's License
  • Ability to work irregular hours, to commute to GLWA facilities and work sites, and respond to after hour emergencies and on-call responses

Apply