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Junior Systems Administrator Jobs in Springfield, IL

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Junior Systems Administrator information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$32.7K

$62.7K

$85.2K

How much do junior systems administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior systems administrator in Springfield, IL is $62,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $72,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior systems administrator?

A junior systems administrator is part of a team that makes sure their company’s IT operations are run smoothly and efficiently. As a junior systems administrator, your job duties include updating hardware and software packages, revising documentation, installing computer and network systems, removing malware and other security threats, monitoring computer system backups, and preventing data corruption. You may also provide IT support for non-technical employees and facilitating end-user training on new software applications and other technology.

What does a junior systems administrator do?

A Junior Systems Administrator assists in maintaining, troubleshooting, and supporting computer systems and networks within an organization. They help install and configure hardware and software, monitor system performance, and ensure the security and efficiency of IT infrastructure. Additionally, they often provide technical support to users, perform routine backups, and help with updates or patches. This entry-level role is typically supervised by more experienced administrators and is a stepping stone to more senior IT positions.

What is the difference between Junior Systems Administrator vs Network Technician?

AspectJunior Systems AdministratorNetwork Technician
CertificationsCompTIA A+, Network+, Microsoft CertifiedCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentIT departments, data centers, corporate officesNetwork operations centers, field sites, corporate networks
ResponsibilitiesManaging servers, user accounts, troubleshooting systemsInstalling, maintaining, troubleshooting network hardware and connectivity
Industry UsageCommon in IT and tech companiesCommon in telecom, ISPs, large enterprises

The Junior Systems Administrator and Network Technician roles share some certifications and work environments but differ mainly in focus. The Junior Systems Administrator manages servers and user systems, while the Network Technician specializes in network hardware and connectivity. Both roles are essential in supporting IT infrastructure but serve different technical needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior systems administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Systems Administrator, you need a solid understanding of operating systems (Windows/Linux), networking basics, and a relevant degree or certification such as CompTIA A+ or Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals. Familiarity with system monitoring tools, virtualization platforms, ticketing systems, and basic scripting languages is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you resolve issues efficiently and collaborate with IT teams. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining system reliability, ensuring smooth IT operations, and supporting organizational technology needs.

What are some common challenges junior systems administrators face when transitioning from academic learning to a professional IT environment?

Junior Systems Administrators often find that the real-world IT environment is more dynamic and fast-paced than academic settings. They may encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously, working with legacy systems, and responding to unexpected technical issues under time pressure. Additionally, collaborating with senior admins and other departments requires strong communication skills and adaptability. Over time, hands-on experience and mentorship from senior team members help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
More about Junior Systems Administrator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Junior Systems Administrator jobs in Springfield, IL? For Junior Systems Administrator jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Systems Administrator jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Systems Administrator jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Junior Systems Administrator jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Junior Systems Administrator job openings:
Junior Systems Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Systems Administrator job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,681 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

IBM z/VM Systems Administrator (ISA I)

Illinois Secretary of State

Springfield, IL • On-site

$6.9K - $12K/mo

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Office of the Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias
Job Title: Information Systems Advisor I - IBM zVM Systems Administrator
Division: Technology Office - Infrastructure
Union: IFT
Location: 501 S 2 nd St., Springfield, IL - Sangamon County
Salary: Range from $6,962 to $12,950 monthly. Commensurate with experience
Benefits:
Attention: Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; the Office of the Secretary of State will not complete certification and/or sponsorship requests.
Overview:
Responsible for managing and maintaining the State's mission-critical IBM mainframe virtualization infrastructure. This role acts as an IBM z/VM Administrator and is responsible for the installation, configuration, monitoring, and administration of IBM z/VM environments, ensuring system stability, performance, and security in support of statewide business applications and services. Must have deep expertise in z/VM systems management, zLinux virtualization, and resource administration, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively on high-availability, enterprise-scale environments.
Duties and Responsibilities:
System Administration
  • Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/VM operating environments.
  • Apply maintenance, service packs, and system upgrades.
  • Monitor and manage z/VM system resources including CPU, memory, and I/O.
User and Resource Management
  • Administer virtual machine definitions, directory entries, and user access.
  • Manage z/VM spool, minidisks, and shared resources.
  • Maintain performance tuning and capacity planning documentation.
Security & Compliance
  • Implement and enforce RACF policies for z/VM directory and resource access.
  • Configure and support secure networking with AT-TLS and SSL/TLS keyrings.
  • Ensure compliance with SOC2, IRS Pub 1075, and other State of Illinois security frameworks.
Disaster Recovery & High Availability
  • Participate in Disaster Recovery (DR) testing and system restoration planning.
  • Develop and maintain z/VM recovery runbooks and operational procedures.
Support & Collaboration
  • Troubleshoot and resolve z/VM system issues, performance problems, and outages.
  • Work with vendors (IBM, HPE, etc.) and internal DoIT teams for upgrades, migrations, and issue resolution.
  • Provide documentation, training, and mentoring to junior staff and operations personnel.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned.
Education and Experience:
Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of two years of college, with coursework in the computer science field AND four years of experience with technical systems and/or programming experience and/or IT project management OR any equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Requires extensive knowledge of systems design and implementation, including the way programs are written, compiled, and tested, the methods of operating computers, and the way data is transcribed into a form suitable for reading by computer and has an appreciation of the wider business context for those programs.
  • Requires excellent oral and written communication skills for effective engagement with colleagues and internal users/customers.
  • Requires extensive knowledge necessary to effectively perform the ability to exercise sound judgement in analyzing, appraising, evaluating, and solving problems of a procedural, organizational, administrative, and technical nature.
  • Requires awareness and adherence to organizational standards for security, privacy and ethics.
  • Requires extensive knowledge of the devices for capturing data for computers and the means available for receiving and transmitting data from remote locations to a computer.
  • Requires extensive knowledge of the principles and techniques of computer system documentation.
  • Requires extensive knowledge of the advantages and limitations of computer communication, and information retrieval systems as management information tools.
  • Requires the ability to organize facts and findings, analyze data logically and to present results with clarity and comprehension, orally and in written or graphic form.
  • Requires the ability to use and understand appropriate methods, tools, applications, and processes to demonstrate a rational and organized approach to work.
  • Requires willingness to travel and possession of a valid Illinois driver's license as required by individual positions within the class.
  • Requires the ability to push/pull, lift and carry up to 50 lbs. Requires a valid Illinois Driver's License.
Application Process:
  • Please visit to apply by completing the online application; you may also upload a resume or other attachments as needed .
  • Preference will be given to Illinois residents in the hiring and selection process, in accordance with the Illinois Secretary of State Merit Employment Code.
  • Questions regarding this posting or Illinois Secretary of State employment practices may be directed to Job Counselors at our Personnel offices in Chicago ) or Springfield ).
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be lawfully authorized to work in the United States.
Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital or veteran status, or the presence of a non-job-related medical condition or disability.

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