Systems administrators keep the technology organizations depend on secure, reliable, and running smoothly. They manage servers, operating systems, networks, cloud platforms, and user access while responding to issues and planning for future infrastructure needs. Explore vetted Systems Administrator opportunities on Ladders, including roles with compensation of $100,000 or more.
Responsibilities vary by company and infrastructure, but commonly include configuring and maintaining servers and operating systems, monitoring performance and availability, managing backups and disaster recovery, applying security patches, troubleshooting technical incidents, and supporting identity and access management. Systems administrators may also automate routine tasks, document procedures, coordinate vendors, and collaborate with security, networking, and software teams.
Employers often seek experience with Windows Server or Linux, virtualization, networking fundamentals, scripting, cloud services, endpoint management, and security best practices. Familiarity with platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud can be valuable, as can skills in PowerShell, Python, or Bash. Clear communication, methodical troubleshooting, and the ability to prioritize work are important in roles that support business-critical systems.
With experience, systems administrators may advance into senior or lead administrator roles, infrastructure engineering, cloud administration, DevOps, cybersecurity, or IT management. Specializing in areas such as cloud operations, automation, identity management, or enterprise security can help professionals pursue opportunities aligned with their strengths and career goals.
Ladders focuses on vetted professional opportunities paying $100,000 or more. Browse Systems Administrator listings to discover roles by seniority, location, and specialization, and find positions that match your infrastructure experience and compensation goals. Job requirements and pay vary by employer and location.
$110K - $130K *
Transform organizational change by leading client engagements, developing tailored OCM plans, and ensuring user adoption with minimal disruption. Collaborate with stakeholders to drive successful chan...
6 days ago
Sr.Analyst, Financial Systems Security, GFIT-REMOTE
$110K - $130K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing security for financial systems. Lead advanced monitoring, risk assessments, and compliance efforts while collaborating with cross-functional teams to mitigate...
3 weeks ago
$150K - $160K *
Create impactful data solutions by leading a cross-functional team in managing high-priority IT projects for federal clients. Drive collaboration and ensure project success through effective communica...
Reposted 5 days ago
$110K - $130K *
Take ownership of a high-performing team in Client Operations, driving service quality and continuous improvement. Collaborate across functions to enhance client experience and operational efficiency...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $110K *
Elevate project execution by overseeing construction from demolition to occupancy. Manage onsite activities, coordinate with teams, and ensure timely, safe project completion while fostering strong cl...
2 weeks ago
$112K - $126K *
Elevate AI capabilities by building and maintaining governed solutions. Collaborate cross-functionally to translate business needs into technical designs, ensuring ethical AI use and robust integratio...
1 week ago
Data Center Substation, Protection & Automation Engineer
$320K - $405K *
Engineer cutting-edge protection and automation systems for high-voltage substations, ensuring reliable power distribution and integration across our infrastructure portfolio. Collaborate with teams t...
5 days ago
$90K - $110K *
Shape the future of construction by overseeing project execution from demolition to occupancy. Collaborate with teams to ensure timely, safe, and successful project delivery while building strong clie...
2 weeks ago
$85K - $95K *
Develop and deliver engaging training programs to enhance user adoption and operational excellence. Collaborate with diverse teams to create effective learning solutions, ensuring content aligns with...
Today
$77K - $108K *
Transform customer experiences by providing expert Microsoft infrastructure support, focusing on Copilot and Microsoft 365. Collaborate with teams to diagnose issues, drive resolutions, and enhance se...
6 days ago
Technical IBM Mainframe Applications/Systems Analyst
$75K - $105K *
Optimize mainframe systems as a key analyst, ensuring stability and performance of IBM z/OS environments. Collaborate with teams to troubleshoot issues and maintain critical applications, while enhanc...
2 weeks ago
Technology Budget Senior Specialist
$125K - $150K *
Lead the charge in financial governance and budgeting for IT, managing a $70M+ technology budget. Collaborate with stakeholders to optimize investments, ensure transparency, and drive strategic financ...
3 weeks ago
Environmental Services Manager
$85K - $95K *
Transform environmental compliance in supply chain services by managing assessments, audits, and training. Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure adherence to regulations and enhance operational effi...
2 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Drive business process improvement by analyzing and redesigning workflows, leveraging strong communication and analytical skills to support federal budget processes and enhance operational efficiency...
3 weeks ago
$180K - $190K *
Unlock potential by managing and automating cloud infrastructure, ensuring system security, and optimizing CI/CD pipelines. Collaborate with teams to enhance reliability and performance in a dynamic...
4 days ago
Senior Mainframe Systems Programmer - Datacom
$85K - $148K *
Unlock potential by managing CA Datacom environments, optimizing databases, and ensuring 24x7 support. Collaborate with vendors, implement best practices, and maintain documentation to enhance client...
3 weeks ago
Software Engineer - Team Lead (Forward Deployed)
$125K - $150K *
Drive engineering excellence as a Software Engineer Team Lead, guiding a team while collaborating with enterprise clients to create innovative, scalable solutions. Balance hands-on coding and mentorin...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$160K - $200K *
Drive innovation by designing and developing scalable backend services, collaborating closely with engineering teams to enhance platform performance and reliability while mentoring junior developers a...
3 weeks ago
$131K - $237K *
Shape secure, scalable cloud solutions across AWS, Azure, OCI, and GCP. Collaborate with teams to automate deployments, enhance cloud operations, and mentor engineers while supporting mission-critical...
Today
Senior DevOps Engineer (Active Secret Clearance)
$185K - $230K *
Advance your career by ensuring seamless performance of AI systems in diverse environments. Collaborate with customers and teams, automating and maintaining infrastructure for reliability across uncla...
Reposted 5 days ago
$160K - $201K *
Lead the charge in shaping and evolving a global web ecosystem, overseeing strategy, operations, and governance to deliver high-performing digital experiences that drive engagement and business growth...
3 weeks ago
$90K - $189K *
Shape the future of network infrastructure by leading modernization efforts across classified and unclassified systems. Collaborate with teams to design secure, high-performance networks while ensurin...
6 days ago
Cybersecurity Operations Supervisor 3rd Shift
$110K - $130K *
Drive cybersecurity excellence by leading a dedicated team in 24/7 operations, overseeing investigations, enhancing team performance, and fostering continuous improvement in security processes and inc...
1 week ago
$135K - $175K *
Unlock potential by driving advanced network solutions, providing technical leadership, and optimizing architecture for high performance and security in a global enterprise environment...
Reposted yesterday
$80K - $95K *
Lead comprehensive evaluations of federally subsidized housing, ensuring compliance with safety and accessibility standards. Collaborate with inspectors to enhance operational performance and resolve...
5 days ago
What does a Systems Administrator do?
A Systems Administrator maintains and supports an organization’s IT systems, including servers, operating systems, cloud resources, networks, backups, and access controls. The role often includes troubleshooting incidents, improving reliability, and implementing security updates.
What skills are commonly required for Systems Administrator jobs?
Commonly requested skills include Windows Server or Linux administration, networking, virtualization, cloud platforms, scripting, monitoring, backup and recovery, and security fundamentals. Requirements vary by employer and the systems in use.
Do Systems Administrators need certifications?
Certifications are not required for every position, but credentials in areas such as cloud platforms, operating systems, networking, or security may help demonstrate relevant expertise. Employers may prioritize hands-on experience and role-specific skills.
Can Systems Administrators work in cloud computing?
Yes. Many Systems Administrator roles include managing cloud infrastructure, services, identity, monitoring, and deployment workflows. Experience with AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud may be useful, depending on the employer.
How can a Systems Administrator advance their career?
Career growth may include moving into senior administration, infrastructure engineering, cloud operations, DevOps, cybersecurity, or IT leadership. Building expertise in automation, cloud architecture, or security can support these transitions.
How do I find Systems Administrator jobs paying $100,000 or more?
Browse Systems Administrator listings on Ladders, which focuses on vetted professional jobs with compensation of $100,000 or more. Compare role requirements, seniority, location, and specialization; pay and eligibility vary by listing.