System Administrator job summary
A good job description starts with an attention-grabbing summary of the position and its role within your company. Your summary should provide an overview of your company and expectations for the position. Outline the types of activities and responsibilities required for the job so job seekers can determine if they are qualified, or if the job is suitable for them.
Example of a System Administrator job summary
Our insurance company needs a capable, motivated System Administrator to take over all aspects of the configuration and maintenance of our computer systems. Do you love tackling problems head-on? Do you enjoy coming up with creative solutions to a business’s pain points? Are you constantly updating your knowledge of hardware and software trends and advancements? If you can answer “yes” to those questions, you’ll fit in well with our company. We run a fast-paced but casual office in a supportive atmosphere. As the only IT staff member on our team, you’ll wear lots of hats and gain plenty of valuable experience.
System Administrator responsibilities and duties
The responsibilities and duties section is the most important part of the job description. Here you should outline the functions this position will perform on a regular basis, how the job functions within the organization and the title of the manager the person will report to.
- Provide technical support for both hardware and software issues our users encounter
- Manage the configuration and operation of client-based computer operating systems
- Monitor the system daily and respond immediately to security or usability concerns
- Create and verify backups of data
- Respond to and resolve help desk requests
- Upgrade systems and processes as required for enhanced functionality and security issue resolution
- Administrate infrastructure, including firewalls, databases, malware protection software and other processes
- Review application logs
- Install and test computer-related equipment
System Administrator qualifications and skills
Next, outline the required and preferred skills for your position. This may include education, previous job experience, certifications and technical skills. You may also include soft skills and personality traits that you expect from a successful candidate. While it may be tempting to include a long list of skills and requirements, including too many could dissuade qualified candidates from applying. Keep your list of qualifications concise, but provide enough detail with relevant keywords and terms.
- 2+ years’ experience in system administration
- Associate or higher degree in a related field
- Extensive experience with VMware
- Advanced knowledge of system vulnerabilities and security issues
- Basic understanding of insurance goals and practices
- Ability to respond to help desk requests after hours on a limited basis