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Entry Level System Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Jr. ICAM System Administrator provides entry-level operational support for Identity, Credential, and Access Management (ICAM) services supporting enterprise systems. This role operates within a ...

As we continue to support our teams and operations, we are looking for a motivated Junior System Administrator to join our onsite IT team and help deliver reliable, responsive technology support ...

... entry-level; develops and implements computer software application programs and systems for user ... Essential Job Functions Works with a System Administrator for any assigned Information Technology ...

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Entry Level System Administrator information

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$41K

$88.9K

$137.5K

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

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level system administrator in the United States is $88,927.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $104,000.00 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 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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level System Administrator, and why are they important?

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.
More about Entry Level System Administrator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level System Administrator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level System Administrator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of System Administrator jobs? The most popular types of System Administrator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level System Administrator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level System Administrator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level System Administrator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 23% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,927 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Desktop Services System Administrator (Level I and II) with Security Clearance

TAP Engineering LLC

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$83K - $158K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 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.