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Entry Level System Administrator Jobs in Illinois

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Entry Level System Administrator information

See Illinois salary details

$39.7K

$86.2K

$133.2K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level system administrator in Illinois is $86,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,800.00 and $100,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level system administrator?

An Entry Level System Administrator is a professional responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and supporting the IT infrastructure of an organization. They typically handle basic system monitoring, user account setup, software and hardware installations, and routine maintenance tasks under the supervision of more experienced administrators. This role is ideal for individuals starting their careers in IT, as it provides hands-on experience with servers, networks, and security protocols. Entry level system administrators also help ensure that systems run smoothly and efficiently, minimizing downtime for users.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level System Administrator, you need a solid understanding of computer networks, operating systems like Windows and Linux, and basic IT troubleshooting skills, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Network+. Familiarity with system monitoring tools, Active Directory, and ticketing systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in supporting end-users and collaborating with IT teams. These skills are crucial for maintaining system uptime, resolving technical issues efficiently, and ensuring secure, reliable IT operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level system administrators in their first year on the job?

Entry level system administrators often encounter challenges such as managing time effectively while responding to multiple support tickets, learning to navigate complex IT environments with diverse hardware and software, and keeping up with documentation requirements. Additionally, adapting to on-call rotations and troubleshooting unfamiliar problems can be demanding. However, these challenges are valuable learning opportunities and are typically supported by more experienced team members, which helps new admins build technical confidence and collaborative skills.

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

AspectEntry Level System AdministratorNetwork Technician
CertificationsCompTIA A+, Network+ (preferred)CompTIA A+, Network+ (preferred)
Work EnvironmentManaging servers, networks, and IT infrastructureInstalling, troubleshooting, and maintaining network hardware
Employer UsageIT departments across various industriesTelecom, ISPs, corporate IT support

Both roles often require similar certifications and work in IT environments, but Entry Level System Administrators focus on managing overall systems and servers, while Network Technicians specialize in network hardware and connectivity issues. The roles are complementary and often overlap in entry-level IT support settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Administrator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of System Administrator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level System Administrator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level System Administrator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level System Administrator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,173 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Transportation Dispatchers Entry Level

U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion

Fairview Heights, IL

$12.50 - $26.92/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

**THIS JOB REQUIRES ENLISTING/JOINING THE U.S. ARMY**

This is an entry-level position with no experience necessary. When you enlist into the Army as a Transportation Dispatcher, you become a part of a team of Soldiers. As a Soldier you secure your future with a career in the Active Duty Army (full-time) and are able to take advantage of all the benefits that serving in the Army gives you. You gain leadership skills, college credit, and job-security by enlisting into the Army that is hard to find in the civilian sector. 

Job Duties:

 

  • Mark, label cargo and freight shipments in accordance with regulatory requirements
  • Document and inventory freight, cargo, and materiel shipments of all types
  • Perform system administrator duties such as installing software and uploading data to computer systems
  • Prepare equipment, cargo, and personnel for travel to airports, seaports, and railways
  • Request and coordinate transportation to meet a movement mission
  • Attend Basic and Advanced Training (paid)

Basic Qualifications:

  • Age - 17 to 34 years old
  • Education - Current Senior in High School(HS), HS Diploma, GED, GED equivalent, or higher education level completed
  • Citizenship - U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident
  • Submit to background and medical screening
  • Receive a passing score on the ASVAB

Benefits:

  • Enlistment bonus up to $40,000, varies by job and individual qualifications
  • Education benefits
    • Tuition Assistance ($4,000 annually) / GI Bill (up to $108,000 for 36 months of attending college)
  • Paid training (Basic and Advanced)
  • 30 days of paid vacation earned every year
  • Additional living expenses for those who have dependents
  • Various lengths of contracts available from 2 years to 6 years normally
  •  

This is a position in the Army Reserves. In order to qualify you must meet the minimum requirements to enlist in the United States Army. 

These include, but are not limited to:

Age between 17-34 years old
Ability to pass an extensive background check with no significant law charges (waivers are authorized on a case-by-case basis)
Ability to pass an extensive medical exam including full panel drug testing to ensure fitness to enlist in the military and attend basic training
Attaining qualifying test scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test (ASVAB)

Required qualifications:
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States
Preferred qualifications:
  • 16 years or older