System administrator, computer technician

What does a system administrator in IT do? – Tasks and work environment

A system administrator in IT is responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and monitoring IT systems and networks within an organization. Common tasks include managing the operation and security of servers, networks, and workstations, as well as troubleshooting and providing user support. The role also involves handling backups, updates, and documentation of the IT environment. The work environment is often office-based, but work outside regular hours may be required for urgent issues or major system upgrades. The job requires close collaboration with IT colleagues, as well as contact with other departments to ensure the organization's digital infrastructure.

Salary development over time

The salary for system administrators, IT technicians has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43 700 SEK per month, increasing to 45 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 46 700 SEK in 2024. The total increase during this period is approximately 7%, reflecting high demand for skills in this area. Factors driving this development include digitization, increased complexity of IT environments, and ongoing needs for security and operational stability. The market is characterized by a clear shortage of qualified candidates, prompting employers to raise salaries to attract and retain the right expertise. Despite some automatic salary revisions, individual differences based on experience, education, and responsibility level are also evident.

System administrator, IT technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,200 SEK/month (woman, private sector employee, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 50,500 SEK/month (man, private sector employee, secondary education, up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 281 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 47 800 SEK | Women 43 700 SEK (women earn 91 % of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Information about regional salary differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a system administrator in IT, a post-secondary education in IT, computer engineering, or systems science is generally required. Many employers also value certifications and practical experience managing complex IT environments. Combining formal education with self-study and further training is common, as the technology field develops rapidly and new requirements constantly emerge.

• Post-secondary education: Vocational college, university, or higher education (2–3 years or more)
• Certifications: Examples include Microsoft, Cisco, Linux, or ITIL
• Internship/Trainee: Practical experience through internships or trainee programs is highly valuable
• Prerequisites: Basic IT knowledge, sometimes a high school diploma with an IT specialization
• Self-study/online courses: Courses and certifications via online platforms are common

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for system administrators in IT include wellness allowances, remote work options, occupational pensions, and subsidized training. Many employers also offer flexible working hours, extra vacation days, and technical equipment such as mobile phones or computers. In addition to regular salary, bonuses or on-call compensation may be provided for work outside normal hours.

Competition and challenges

The profession of system administrator in IT is characterized by high competition for qualified candidates and a labor market where demand exceeds the supply of trained personnel. Despite many job openings and good future prospects, there are challenges in staying updated with constantly evolving technologies and security requirements. The role also entails responsibility for the organization’s most critical IT systems, which can lead to stress and high demands for availability. Recruitment difficulties are reported nationally, and employers often seek experienced specialists rather than recent graduates. There is also some mobility within the profession, as many choose to move into more specialized roles or leadership positions.

Tips for those wanting to become a system administrator in IT

To succeed as a system administrator, IT technician, it is good to be analytical and have a genuine interest in technology, which facilitates troubleshooting and problem-solving. Being precise and structured is important for managing complex systems and ensuring nothing is overlooked in operations or security routines. Flexibility and resilience to stress are crucial during unforeseen incidents, as quick decisions may be required. Strong communication skills help explain technical solutions to colleagues without an IT background. A willingness to continually learn new things is also essential, as technological development in the field is rapid and requires ongoing education.

Key facts about system administrator, IT technician

• Average salary: 46 700 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years or more)
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes on-call outside office hours
• Job opportunities: Large, 179 available jobs in Sweden
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 91 % of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a system administrator in IT, it is common to advance to roles such as IT architect, IT security specialist, or technical project manager. Some choose to deepen their expertise in specific technical areas, while others move into leadership roles like IT manager or operations director. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, opportunities for employment remain high within the profession, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the coming five years. Paradoxically, recruitment difficulties are reported nationally, with many leaving the profession despite the shortage of experienced candidates. Digitalization and increased security requirements suggest that the profession will continue to be attractive and evolving in the long term.

Frequently asked questions about system administrator, IT technician

• What does a system administrator, IT technician earn?
  - The average salary is 46 700 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What are the gender differences in salary for system administrators, IT technicians?
  - Men earn an average of 47 800 SEK and women 43 700 SEK, meaning women earn about 91% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a system administrator in IT?
  - Post-secondary education in IT, computer engineering, or systems science is recommended, often supplemented with certifications.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The job market is very good with many opportunities, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for system administrators, IT technicians?
  - The highest salary is 50,500 SEK and the lowest 34,200 SEK depending on gender, education, and employment type.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Current information about regional differences is unavailable, but variations may occur depending on location and labor market.
• What benefits are most common in the profession?
  - Wellness allowances, remote work options, occupational pensions, and subsidized training are common benefits.