Information Technology Administrator
Fact Sheet
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Maintaining a company's network system |
Information technology (IT) administrators manage the day-to-day operations of IT systems to make sure that they 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.
Duties and 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- coordinate system updates and replacement of outdated versions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 in 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
Quick Facts
School subjects that include some aspect of COMPUTING STUDIES provide a useful background to these jobs. In some cases a computer studies-related subject is a pre-requisite for entry to courses that provide the training for the job.
School subjects that include some aspect of MATHEMATICS provide a useful background to these jobs. In some cases a mathematics-related subject is a pre-requisite for entry to courses that provide the training for the job.
Workers performing these jobs would usually be expected to spend more than three-quarters of their day indoors, in an office, factory or other enclosed area protected from the weather. Jobs requiring mainly indoor work are excluded.
These jobs require moderate or better reading and writing skills. Workers may be expected to prepare, understand or act on written materials, such as letters or reports. People may wish to avoid these jobs if their reading or writing English skills are limited to a small range of words or phrases and symbols. Jobs remaining may still require very basic reading or writing skills.
The main duties and tasks involved in these jobs are usually performed sitting down at a desk, counter, workbench or other location for periods of at least two hours at a stretch. Jobs requiring sitting for long periods have been excluded.
Included are jobs involved in the design, programming, support, delivery and maintenance of computerised and other information systems.
These jobs involve WORKING WITH IDEAS to investigate or seek solutions to scientific, technical, social or other issues. Activities include observing, researching, analysing and interpreting results. The ability to develop theories, apply logic and explore abstract ideas in a specialist area of knowledge is important.
These jobs involve WORKING WITH THINGS, using the hands, or special tools or equipment to make, fix, install or adjust them. Activities include doing practical and physical tasks, and may require an understanding of how equipment or machinery works.
These jobs involve WORKING WITH DATA to order, process or retrieve facts and figures, or to develop or administer policies and procedures. Activities include organising, using or updating information, such as files or accounts, developing or following procedures or systems, and the planning, budgeting, and staffing of an organisation.
Jobs in this group usually require completion of a recognised Bachelor Degree, or extensive relevant experience. Some jobs also require post-graduate study, such as a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Master Degree.
Personal Requirements
- good at 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
Occupation Video - Information Technology Administrator