Job description

In addition to the technical design and development of websites, web administrators are responsible for setting up a web host, establishing mail services, configuring access for users, modifying back-end components and connecting databases. Their job involves working with programming languages. The main goal is to increase the efficiency and speed of websites.

Duties

    • Install web server software and hardware and configure to the needs of the website
    • Create and administer internet infrastructure to facilitate web servers and file transfer protocol
    • Establish electronic data backup to ensure disaster recovery and software resolutions
    • Perform a manual review of website content, links, tools and coding
    • Install web security measures, including encryption and firewalls, for information systems
    • Confer with web developers to ensure maximum user experience (UX)
    • Gather website data and metrics and then compose a report of its overall performance
    • Recommend website improvements within the client’s budgetary parameter
    • Train others on technical support for software use and maintenance
    • Develop, maintain and update testing routines and procedures to ensure proper functioning
    • Produce style guidelines for website content that matches the spirit of the web portal
    • Record, update and store documentation relating to performance, tech support and changes
    • Collaborate with other team members to design a digital marketing strategy
    • List interoperability requirements that identify project resource needs

Skills and qualities

Numerical
Tech-savviness
Problem-solving
Analytical
Creativity
Attention to detail
Decision-making
Time management
Organisational
Independence
Teamwork
Resourcefulness

Job outlook

Projected growth
The projected growth rate of employment in the US from 2018 to 2028, based on data collected through the BLS Employment Projections (EP) programme. The national average growth rate for all professions is 5%.

10%

New jobs
The number of jobs projected to become available in the US between 2018 and 2028, based on data collected through the BLS Employment Projections (EP) programme.

42.2k

Automation risk
The probability of computerisation, based on data published in ‘The Future of Employment’, a 2013 working paper by Carl Benedikt Frey and Michael Osborne.

22%

Career progression

The role of a web administrator is the starting point for a highly advanced and technical career within the industry. After several years of experience, you will be presented with opportunities in IT management, data and web analysis, and ecommerce implementation.

Working conditions

Average hours

40h/ week

Typical schedule

Full Time

Standard business hours

Web administrators typically work in an office environment or from a home office. Whether it is because of deadlines or technical difficulties, they might need to work evenings, weekends or holidays. The position entails being regularly available by phone or email.

Salary

Bottom 10%

$47k

Median

$90k

Top 10%

$150k

Annual salary estimates are based on percentile wage data collected through the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey of US workers.

Qualifications and training

Education level

Undergraduate

Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field

Study time

4 years

To become a web administrator, you will need to possess a four-year undergraduate degree that specialises in computer science, network security or web design. Throughout your career, it would be prudent to enroll in additional coursework in programming languages and other computer engineering-related subjects.

You can also seek out web administration certification which, although not required, can boost your employment prospects.

Sources

Bureau of Labor Statistics Oxford Martin School O*NET Online

Last Updated: Wednesday, November 2, 2022

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