Median pay: $63,600
Top pay: $88,800
10-year job growth: 23%
Total jobs: 70,000
The job:
It may not be the sexiest job, but companies rely heavily on systems administrators to oversee their computer networks and make sure that every component – from the computers to the network itself – is humming along. Given the corporate world's reliance on such systems, demand is high for systems administrators. With the responsibility, often comes long hours and being on call virtually all the time.
How to switch:
Even though a strong understanding of IT is required, there is no set path to this position. Job applicants with a relevant degree in computer science or information systems or those certified as a project management professional or Microsoft's certified systems engineer typically have an edge.
Quality of life ratings:
| Personal satisfaction |
Benefit to society |
Low stress |
Flexibility |
| B |
C |
C |
B |
By Jessica Dickler, Anne C. Lee and Greg Swiatek
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