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Information Technology Administrator

Information technology (IT) administrators manage the day-to-day operations of IT systems to ensure that the systems run effectively.

IT administrators work with IT managers to make sure that the computer system provides sufficient computing power to deliver the desired level of business performance.

TASKS

IT administrators may perform the following tasks:

talk with managerial, administrative and technical staff to determine information needs, data flows and systems definitions
establish and control systems' access and security
coordinate protocols for operation within multi-user IT networks that provide voice, data and text transmission
check systems in order to optimise performance and to initiate recovery action after system failures
implement regular housekeeping procedures, including data backup
manage the distribution and retention of data on various storage devices
coordinate system updates and replacement of outdated versions
maintain data dictionaries
provide day-to-day advice to users on data structures and terminology
provide assistance with testing new equipment and systems
prepare technical reports on the operation of systems
prepare systems' cost estimates and cost-benefit analyses
coordinate the work of support staff
provide training in systems use and access

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

aptitude for technical activities
good communication skills
able to quickly understand complex problems and devise effective solutions
willing to maintain and update own knowledge of IT content
able to work independently
able to direct and oversee the work of others

Very Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Database Administrator - makes sure that the underlying technologies provide users with flexibility in the management, access, retrieval, sharing and configuration of the large amounts of data held by many systems. IT professionals such as senior programmers and analysts will often advance to this position after they have gained some experience with relevant database software solutions.

Network Administrator - provides operational support and management of a diverse area, covering networks involving the internet and private networks, through to large communication networks within various industries.

Systems Administrator - maintains and tunes large operating systems that may be acquired from external system developers in the form of mainframe, desktop or mid-range systems.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an IT administrator you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in information technology or information technology networking. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become an IT administrator by studying information technology or computing at university with a major in systems administration, network engineering, network security or software development. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Membership of the Australian Computer Society is available to those who hold, or are working towards, suitable qualifications. There is a range of membership types available, allowing progression through the various levels as a member's career develops.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

IT administrators can work in IT-specific industries and other industries requiring IT expertise. With experience, there are opportunities for self-employment or starting your own business.