What Is an Unix System Administrator and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A UNIX system administrator performs a variety of duties related to the management of a UNIX system. In this career, your primary responsibilities involve overseeing a work environment with a multi-user UNIX operating system. You help install all new hardware and software on the system and train employees on how to use the system and the applications. You perform system management tasks, such as storing and protecting user data and maintaining security. You also develop user manuals and technical guides for the company.

The qualifications needed for a career as a UNIX system administrator include a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology (IT), or a related field and significant IT experience. In addition to your formal education, you need to learn how to use and manage UNIX operating systems, such as AIX. To be a good UNIX system administrator, you need strong analytical problem-solving, communication, and teaching skills. You can elevate your job prospects by obtaining professional certificates. Common certifications are in popular programming languages.