How to become A Web Administrator

Websites are the digital windows of an organisation that promote its business all day, every day. Web Administrators work on the front and back-ends of a website to maintain the organisation’s online presence and provide a seamless user experience.

• Web Admin
• Web Technologies Administrator

What do Web Administrators do?

A Web Administrator would typically need to:

• Design, develop, maintain and troubleshoot websites
• Set up a web host, configure user access, establish news and mail servers and manage the connection between databases and other back-end components
• Familiarise clients with the website
• Analyse loading times, memory consumption, traffic, effectiveness and user feedback to monitor and evaluate website performance
• Make use of marketing techniques such as newsletters and SEO (search engine optimisation) to attract more users to the website
• Automate site deployment, updates and upgrades using DevOps techniques with Saltstack and Jenkins
• Ensure graphic and content adhere to basic quality standards before uploading components
• Use CMS (content management system) and Java to maintain the internal tools used to manage site structure, data and security
• Identify, standardise and communicate levels of access and security
• Monitor systems for intrusions or denial of service attacks; report security breaches to authorised personnel
• Document recovery plans; modify  or back up applications and related data to facilitate disaster recovery
•  Enhance Pearl and shell scripting to automate network device configuration and testing; automate Unix host configurations
• Create and monitor diverse domains with the help of a cluster environment that includes multiple servers, machines and node managers
• Manage the database  of scientific publications
• Utilise internal VMWare infrastructure to maintain and manage test and development environments
• Address user concerns; resolve bugs; correct problems associated with testing or recommend appropriate actions for resolution
• Employ HTML (HyperText Markup Language), CSS (cascading style sheets) and Javascript to optimise CMS and increase flexibility in design choices
• Include information architecture, navigational rules, content development and visual layout in the design
• Develop setup projects for windows applications and deploy the set files on designers’ machines
• Engage in the on-call rotation for maintenance and troubleshooting of IIS (internet information services) websites and windows servers

Web Administrators are office-based; most of their work is done on a computer. Administrators of high-traffic websites must always be accessible to resolve unforeseen problems. Since most of the work, including communication with users and clients, can be completed via the internet, it is possible to also work remote and freelance.

Typically Web Administrators work full-time for around 40 hours/week, although they can have a flexible work schedule.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Web Administrators can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media and inquiring at staffing agencies. Self-employment is a viable option.

Web Administrators are generally employed by: 

• IT Companies
• Companies With IT Departments
• Companies With A Large Online Presence

Professional associations and organisations, such as CompTIA and The Association of Software Professionals, are crucial for Web Administrators interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Health issues due to a significant amount of time spent sitting in front of computers
• Being called into work outside of work hours if a problem occurs, especially with larger high-traffic websites

Building experience is key to climbing the IT ladder. Prospective Web Administrators find previous work experience as a web developer or administrative assistant useful. Seek relevant internships to further your insight into the field. Invest your time and energy in creating a website or mobile app that will vouch for your technical know-how, initiative and business acumen.

Employers accept coding Bootcamp graduates and self-taught programmers with a  robust portfolio that showcases the applicant’s knowledge of computer and electronics, communication and media, administration and management, along with customer and personal service.

Most aspiring Web Administrators acquire a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, business or computer information systems. An associate degree in the fields mentioned above is also a viable option.

Focus on computer studies, IT and English in high school.  

Voluntary certification in the technical aspects of information technology, programming languages and coding computer systems from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent.

Web Administrators who qualify as Certified Web Professional - Designer and Certified Web Professional - Web Developer increase their chances of advancement and becoming independent consultants. Stackable certifications in Linux and computer connectivity and security align with your job role and prove your ability to grow professionally. 

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive the career progression of Web Administrators who take on leadership roles and increased responsibilities.

By and large, these professionals begin in a consultant’s role before becoming a Senior Software Engineer, Weblogic Administrator, Web Developer or Systems Administrator. You could end your career as Director of Software Development.

Experienced Web Administrators with requisite certification, technical skills and experience will have the best job prospects. 

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Web Administrator build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

Web Administrators require several years of work-related experience and on-the-job training, so it is recommended to enter the field right after completing the vocational training necessary. Additional certifications in design and marketing will help you get a more comprehensive perspective of the continuously evolving field. 

The User is King

Increasing scale and importance of website-related tasks demand a completely fool-proof website. A meticulous Web Administrator who deploys extensive testing to catch the tiniest bug is responsible for a memorable user experience that will help build the company’s market reputation.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Web Administrators have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Web Administrator has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

It is estimated that over 1.7 billion websites exist on the internet, with approximately 500,000 new websites being launched every day.

Every website worth its name must look good from the inside and outside; every website that succeeds in doing so owes its magic to the technical wizardry of its Web Administrator.

In addition to expertise in technical concepts, you will need exemplary communication skills to help non-technical stakeholders gain wholesome knowledge.