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Network Administrator

Kaiwhakahaere Whatunga

Network administrators design, install and maintain computer hardware and software networks, from one-building LANs (local area networks) to worldwide WANs (wide area networks).

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Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is needed to enter tertiary training. Useful subjects include digital technologies, maths, physics and English.

For Year 11 to 13 learners, trades academies and the STAR and Gateway programmes are good ways to gain relevant experience and skills.

Study fields

Study levels

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Diploma
  • Certificate

Useful experience

Useful experience for network administrators includes:

  • technical computer work
  • computer helpdesk and support work
  • customer service.

What you will do

Network administrators may do some or all of the following:

  • design and configure linked computer network systems
  • install systems and their parts, such as cabling, routers, switches, servers, and wifi devices
  • maintain networks, and identify and fix faults
  • make sure networks are secure and have enough capacity
  • assess and recommend network and software improvements
  • provide support and technical assistance to network users.

Skills and knowledge

Network administrators need to have knowledge of:

  • computer systems, software and technology
  • networking systems, methods and devices
  • project management.
Pay

Network administrators usually earn

$80K-$140K

per year

Job opportunities
Good
Chances of getting a job as a network administrator are good due to a shortage of workers.
Length of training
1-3
years of training usually required.

Industry

Information Technology

Network administrators design, install and maintain computer hardware and software networks, from one-building LANs (local area networks) to worldwide WANs (wide area networks).

Similar jobs in this industry

Entry requirements

There are no specific requirements to become a network administrator. However, you usually need:

  • a diploma or degree in networking, systems administration, computer science or information systems
  • relevant industry-based certification with a well-known company such as Microsoft or Oracle
  • experience in related IT roles such as systems administrator.

Network administrators gain skills on the job and may attend courses to update their knowledge and skills.

Chances of getting a job

Network administrators in demand

Demand for network administrators is strong because organisations need network administrators to:

  • develop, maintain and administer computer networks and operating systems
  • ensure networks are secure and can handle expected traffic.

Shortage of experienced network administrators

There are not enough experienced network administrators to meet demand. Nearly two thirds of IT employers report skills shortages, and there aren't enough information technology (IT) trainees.

As a result, computer network and systems engineer, and network administrator appear on Immigration New Zealand's long-term skill shortage list. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled network administrators from overseas to work in New Zealand.

According to the Census, 747 network administrators worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Types of employers varied

Employers of network administrators include:

  • private companies 
  • government departments
  • telecommunications companies.

Find out more about training

Institute of IT Professionals
0800 252 255 - info@itp.nz - www.itp.nz
NZ Tech
(09) 475 0204 - info@nztech.org.nz - www.nztech.org.nz

Progression and specialisations

Network administrators may progress to set up their own business, become enterprise architects (providing IT solutions for a whole organisation), or move into management roles. 

Working conditions

Network administrators:

  • usually work full time and often work evenings, weekends and on call
  • work in offices in conditions that may be stressful when working to strict deadlines
  • may travel locally or overseas to meet clients.

Physical Requirements

Network administrators spend a lot of time using computers, so they need to know how to use computer equipment properly to avoid occupational overuse syndrome (OOS).

Useful personal qualities

Network administrators need to be:

  • methodical, accurate and patient
  • able to work well under pressure, and meet deadlines
  • able to work well as part of a team, and with minimal supervision
  • skilled problem solvers
  • good communicators, to explain complex information about computers in easily understood terms.

Related Wintec courses

Industry

Information Technology

Network administrators design, install and maintain computer hardware and software networks, from one-building LANs (local area networks) to worldwide WANs (wide area networks).

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