System administrator

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

A system administrator is responsible for managing, developing, and ensuring the operation of organizations' IT systems and applications. Tasks often include both technical and administrative elements, such as analyzing user requirements, planning upgrades, handling support cases, and coordinating efforts between the IT department and the business. System administrators work closely with users, vendors, and other IT specialists to keep systems stable and efficient over time. The work environment is typically office-based and characterized by a fast pace, where problem-solving and communication are central parts of daily life.

Salary development over time

Salaries for system administrators have steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,800 SEK, then rose to 50 600 SEK in 2023, corresponding to about a 3.7% increase. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary continued to rise to 52 600 SEK, an increase of an additional 4%. This positive trend can be explained by the sustained high demand for qualified IT skills and increased requirements for technical expertise and business understanding. The market for system administrators is also influenced by the digitalization wave, which encourages employers to pay more to secure the right competence.

System administrator salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 52 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 46,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 59,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 316 SEK/hour
• Men (average): 53 200 SEK/month
• Women (average): 51 600 SEK/month
• Women’s share of men’s salary: 97%
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between regions, with metropolitan areas often offering higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as a system administrator, a post-secondary education in IT or systems science is usually required, often at university level. Practical experience in system management, operations, or development is highly meritorious and can sometimes outweigh formal education. Requirements for certifications and specialized knowledge vary depending on the employer and system environment.

• Formal degree: University-level education in IT, systems science, or similar, 3 years or more
• Certifications: ITIL, Microsoft, AWS, or equivalent industry certificates
• Internship/trainee: Practical experience or trainee programs in IT operations or system management
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of programming, databases, and IT security
• Tips for choosing: Specializing in enterprise systems, business development, or specific technical platforms can increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

System administrators are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, flexitime, and remote work opportunities. Other common compensations include extra vacation days, professional development, and sometimes bonuses linked to projects or results. Employers in both the private and public sectors often invest in creating attractive employment conditions to retain qualified staff.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a system administrator is significant, especially in metropolitan areas where many companies seek the same skills. At the same time, the profession is characterized by recruitment difficulties, as there is high demand for experienced system administrators and specialists. Challenges often include staying updated on new technologies, security requirements, and changing work processes. Since many leave the profession for other IT roles or leadership positions, turnover is relatively high, creating opportunities but also increasing demands for continuous skills development.

Tips for those who want to become a system administrator

To succeed as a system administrator, it is good to combine technical curiosity with strong communication and collaboration skills. Being able to quickly familiarize oneself with new systems and understand business needs is crucial, so analytical and problem-solving abilities are important traits. It is also wise to gain experience in different IT environments early on, for example through internships or trainee programs, and to pursue certifications in relevant technologies. A structured approach to work facilitates managing complex environments and many concurrent projects. Being attentive to user perspectives while maintaining integrity regarding security and quality are also success factors. Finally, a genuine interest in development and learning provides great opportunities for advancement in the profession.

Key facts about system administrators

• Education level: Post-secondary education in IT or systems science
• Work environment: Office-based, often with remote work options
• Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment
• Career paths: Usually progressing to IT project manager or specialist roles
• Number of job openings: 179 (May 2024, entire profession)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role of system administrator, opportunities often open to advance to positions such as IT project manager, system architect, solution architect, or IT director. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, job opportunities within the profession remain strong nationwide, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Many choose to specialize in areas such as IT security, business development, or specific system platforms. Since many leave the profession for other qualified IT roles, turnover is high, creating good opportunities for new system administrators to establish themselves in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about system administrators

• What does a system administrator earn?
  - A system administrator has an average salary of 52 600 SEK per month. The salary varies depending on experience, education, and employer.
• How do gender differences look in system administrator salaries?
  - Men earn an average of 53 200 SEK and women 51 600 SEK, which means women earn 97% of what men do.
• What education is needed to become a system administrator?
  - The most common is post-secondary education in IT or systems science, often at university level and supplemented with certifications.
• What is the job market like for system administrators?
  - Opportunities for employment are large nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a system administrator?
  - The highest salary is 59,400 SEK and the lowest is 46,200 SEK, depending on education, experience, and sector.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, metropolitan regions often offer higher salaries compared to smaller towns.
• What benefits are offered to system administrators?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, flexitime, occupational pension, remote work, and professional development.