Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of their networks. They organize, install and support an organization’s computer systems. This includes local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets and other data communication systems. Administrators manage an organization’s servers, desktops, and mobile equipment. They ensure that email and data storage networks work properly. They also make sure that employees’ workstations are working efficiently and that they stay connected to the central computer network. Some administrators manage telecommunication networks.
Average Wage
Experienced Wage
NetworkAdministrators:
Add users to a network and assign and update security permissions on the network
Collect data in order to evaluate and optimize network or system performance
Install all network hardware and software and make needed upgrades and repairs
Interpret and solve problems when a user or an automated monitoring system alerts that one exists
Maintain network and computer system security and ensure that all systems are operating correctly
Training & Educational Opportunities
To gain employment as a network administrator, a bachelor’s degree in computer science is preferred but other degrees are accepted depending on field experience and previous work.
Some employers may prefer applicants with various combinations of certifications from industry-recognized sources, such as CompTIA and Microsoft. There are many pathways to certifications through each entity to demonstrate proficiency and expertise in the field.
Specialized Skills / Certifications
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Security+
Microsoft Certified IT Professional
Cisco Certified Network Administrator
VMWare
Cisco Certified Network Professional
Cisco Certified Internetwork Professional
Cisco Certified Security Professional
Voice Over Internet Protocol
Training Providers
Able Career Institute at National Able Network
College of DuPage
Directions Training Center, Inc.
Harper College
Illinois Institute of Technology
Joliet Junior College
MicroTrain Technologies
Need Help Paying for These Skills or Certifications?
A WIOA grant can pay for up to $10,000 of training.
Peek Inside: At this location, we offer our customers a wide range of manufacturing capabilities, from CNC machining all the way to complete product assembly and fulfillment.
Fun fact about our company: a robot works right alongside our machinists to produce parts with quality and efficiency!
You would like to work at our company if
you are interested in the wide range of evolving technologies, processes and creativity that go into the world of modern manufacturing.
In the next year, we expect to hire CNC machinists
To get that job, you typically need a high school diploma and vocational or technical training in machining. We offer additional on-the-job training once a new machinist with the foundational skills and experience joins the team so they can continue to master their craft.
Our best machinists have: a passion about the art and science that goes into taking a raw piece of metal or plastic and forming it into a high-precision design.
CNC Machinists From this position, you could grow into
Master Machinist
Machining Business Manager
Owner of your own machining business
In the next year, we expect to hire Assembly Operators
To get that job, you typically need a high school diploma, a mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn and closely follow processes and work instructions.
Our best assembly operators are eager learners and pay attention to details. They enjoy working on different types of mechanical work every day.
Assembly Operators From this position, you could grow into
lead operator
supervisor
manufacturing manager
FEATURED ORGANIZATION:
Company Name: The Jel Sert Company
DuPage Location: West Chicago, IL
Total number of employees in DuPage: 900 during peak season
Peek Inside
The Jel Sert Company is a leading manufacturer of food and beverage products. For the past 20 years, our team has been dedicated to establishing an exemplary manufacturing infrastructure that supports the needs of some of the world’s largest Consumer Packaged Goods and pharmaceutical companies.
Jel Sert is committed to providing employees with development opportunities as we are invested in their long term success and advancement within the organization. An individual development plan assists employees in career and personal development and allows employees to reach short and long term career goals.
You would like to work at our company because
We are committed to attracting the best talent and developing our employees to exceed their potential. Our employees take pride in their work and are always looking for ways to contribute their ideas, skills, experience, and passion. We reward and value creativity, professionalism, teamwork, honesty, and longevity.
In the next year, we expect to hire 2-3 technicians
To get this job, you typically need a Minimum of 3 years’ experience working with electrical, hydraulics, programming, and mechanical PLCs is required.
We pay $2.00 per hour shift differential for all time worked on 3rd shift. *Rate of pay depends on one’s experience, education, and skills.
Our best technicians have: Strong mechanical and electrical skills Additionally, someone that takes pride in their work, is honest, creative in their ideas, and works as a professional in a team environment.
All Technicians are sent to College of DuPage for classes. Technicians are scheduled for a series of six mechanical and six electrical classes. Classes are during work hours, so Technicians are paid for their time in class. We adjust their hours to spend half their shift on the floor and the balance in the class. Jel Sert pays for this training which includes classroom and lab work. All Technicians are involved in this training despite their experience level.
TECHNICIAN
From this position, you could grow into
