Duties

• A UNIX administrator is responsible for the design, deployment, installation, configuration and maintenance of UNIX-based server systems and software. The UNIX administrator also coordinates with network engineers to implement database administration programs and business application programs, and creates long-range strategic planning in areas that involve system upgrade, end-user management and systems programming.
  
  

Features and Job Functions

• The UNIX administrator must be knowledgeable in UNIX systems security and secure system access programs, and be able to implement system policies and procedures that support a UNIX processing environment. If the UNIX platform interfaces with the Internet, the administrator must be able to implement firewalls to protect software and data from outside intrusion. The administrator must also create input/output systems, networking schematics, storage routines for archiving of data on the system, and cataloging for UNIX software development and applications. The UNIX administrator must perform data backup, load UNIX system releases, troubleshoot and resolve system problems.
  
  

Required Skills

• The UNIX administrator must have strong customer service skills. There are times when a software routine developed for an end-user could develop or contain errors impacting the processing environment. The administrator must analyze and solve the problem as quickly as possible. The administrator must also be detail-oriented and self-motivated, and be able to conduct further research into the UNIX development and programming environment. Good written and oral communication skills are needed in this position.
  
  

Work Environment

• A UNIX administrator usually works 40 hours a week, but is "on call" if a serious system problem develops overnight or on the weekends. Typically, the UNIX administrator shares this duty with other UNIX specialists or administrators in the workplace. At times, the administrator may perform lifting and transporting of computers and peripherals. If there are remote UNIX networks off-site at other branches within an organization, the UNIX administrator could be tasked to travel to those sites.
  
  

Education and Salary

• A bachelor's degree in computer science or four years equivalent work experience are just some of the educational requirements to become a UNIX administrator. However, there are vocational schools or training certification companies, such as ComputerPrep, with certification manuals and software to assist an individual to obtain certification as a UNIX specialist or administrator. As of June 2010, according to Payscale.com, the average median income of a UNIX administrator is between $56,565 and $ $77,107.