Creating an impressive entry-level system administrator resume can feel challenging when you're just starting out and you're an entry-level IT specialist. With limited experience, it's crucial to highlight your skills and any hands-on training that demonstrate your potential.

Whether you’ve just graduated or transitioned into IT from another field, the right application can help you stand out and land that first role.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what to include, how to write a resume online, and how to tailor it to what hiring managers are really looking for.

Entry-level system administrator resume examples

Entry-level network system administrator resume sample

Entry-level network system administrator resume template

Network Administrator Resume
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Resume for entry-level network system administrator | Plain text

Jordan Evans
Seattle, WA | jordan.evans@email.com | (206) 555-0139 | LinkedIn.com/in/jordanevans

Summary

Recent IT graduate with internship experience supporting network infrastructure and troubleshooting routing issues. Skilled in configuring switches, maintaining connectivity, and documenting system changes. Looking to grow in a fast-paced IT department with opportunities for hands-on networking.

Skills

  • Cisco IOS Configuration
  • VLANs and Subnetting
  • Network Monitoring Tools (Wireshark, SolarWinds)
  • TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP
  • Firewall Rules & ACLs
  • LAN/WAN Troubleshooting
  • Communication
  • Adaptability
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Customer Service

Experience

IT Intern – Network Operations

Zayo Group | Denver, CO | Jun 2024 – Aug 2024

  • Supported the configuration and testing of Cisco routers and switches across different client environments, contributing to the implementation of updated routing protocols.
  • Collaborated with senior engineers during after-hours maintenance windows to assist in firmware upgrades and system reboots without service interruption.
  • Utilized SolarWinds to track network performance metrics, identify latency trends, and compile weekly reports for network engineers.
  • Created and maintained detailed network documentation including diagrams and IP address inventory, improving troubleshooting speed.

Retail Associate

Target | Seattle, WA | Sep 2022 – May 2024

  • Delivered consistent customer service in a fast-paced environment while balancing register operation, inventory organization, and tech issue escalation.
  • Troubleshot basic POS hardware problems, reported recurring issues to corporate IT, and followed up on repair ticket resolutions.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of store systems and policies, helping new employees navigate common digital tools during onboarding.
  • Monitored stock levels through a handheld inventory system, contributing to more accurate product restocking and tracking.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering

University of Washington | Seattle, WA | Graduated: May 2025

  • GPA: 3.6
  • Relevant Coursework: Routing & Switching, Network Security, Wireless Systems, Data Communications
  • Senior Project: Designed and simulated a segmented campus network with VLANs, redundancy, and access control lists using Packet Tracer
  • Dean’s List: Fall 2022 – Spring 2024

Certifications

  • CompTIA Network+ (2025)
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – Expected 2025

Additional Information

  • Volunteer: Mentored high school students in STEM through the Seattle TechStart program

Strong sides of this entry-level system administrator resume example:

  • Highlights hands-on experience with real tools like Cisco routers and SolarWinds, adding credibility to the skill set.
  • Balances technical achievements with customer-facing retail expertise, showing adaptability in different work environment.
  • Follows a clean format with relevant certifications and a well-detailed education section.
How to properly format a system administrator resume?
  • Use a professional font such as Calibri, Helvetica, or Arial (size 11–12 pt).
  • Keep the resume size to a single page for clarity.
  • Set margins to 1 inch on every side for a neat look.
  • Maintain single spacing between lines, with extra space before each block.
  • Align text to the left to improve readability.
  • Organize content with sections on a resume headings like "Skills," "Education," and "Experience."
  • Write bullet points that are concise and achievement-focused.
  • Export and send your file as a PDF to preserve the design.
  • Apply consistent style for dates, job roles, and locations.
  • Select a minimalist layout without heavy colors or decorative elements.

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Entry-level Windows system administrator resume example

Sample entry-level Windows system administrator resume

Rachel Nguyen
Dallas, TX | rachel.nguyen@email.com | (469) 555-0172 | GitHub.com/rnguyen-it

Summary

Motivated entry-level Windows system administrator with real-world internship experience in Active Directory and Group Policy. Strong scripting skills and passion for maintaining secure, efficient server environments. Ready to support enterprise infrastructure with excellent documentation and troubleshooting abilities.

Skills

  • Windows Server 2019
  • Active Directory & Group Policy
  • PowerShell
  • User Account Management
  • File & Print Services
  • Virtual Machines (Hyper-V)
  • Time Management
  • Problem Solving
  • Documentation
  • Team Collaboration

Experience

System Administrator Intern

Raytheon Technologies | Richardson, TX | May 2024 – Aug 2024

  • Worked closely with system administrators to configure user roles and security permissions in Active Directory, applying Group Policy settings across multiple OUs.
  • Used PowerShell to automate repetitive administrative tasks including user account creation, password resets, and log file parsing.
  • Participated in Windows Server patch management and monitored system uptime using built-in tools and third-party monitoring dashboards.
  • Wrote internal documentation covering user onboarding steps and login troubleshooting procedures to streamline IT support processes.

Administrative Assistant

Premier Dental Group | Plano, TX | Jan 2023 – Apr 2024

  • Handled scheduling software and collaborated with external tech support to troubleshoot frequent login and syncing issues with cloud-based tools.
  • Maintained accurate digital health records and ensured compliance with HIPAA policies by coordinating periodic audits.
  • Helped onboard new staff with software training and created user manuals for office systems, improving efficiency for the front desk team.
  • Communicated with vendors to manage equipment replacements, gaining exposure to basic hardware setup and connectivity troubleshooting.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems

University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | Graduated: May 2025

  • GPA: 3.7
  • Relevant Courses: Windows Server Admin, Security Principles, Database Systems, Scripting for Admins
  • Honors: Dean’s List 2022–2024
  • Capstone: Implemented a mock IT support system for a small business using AD and centralized file storage

Certifications

  • CompTIA Security+ (2025)
  • Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate – In Progress

Additional Information

  • Member: Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP – Dallas Chapter)

Why this example of a junior system administrator resume will impress recruiters:

  • Presents a clear progression from non-technical work to IT through an internship, demonstrating career focus.
  • Uses specific tools and scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell, Group Policy) to reinforce readiness for a Windows environment.
  • Includes a strong capstone project that mirrors real-world admin responsibilities, adding depth to the education section.
Should I choose an entry-level system administrator resume objective or summary?

Resume summary is ideal if you’ve gained some hands-on experience, completed internships, or earned relevant certifications.

  • Highlights your background, key strengths, and professional interests.

Entry-level system administrator resume summary sample:

IT graduate with real-world experience configuring Windows environments and managing user permissions. Completed multiple system support internships and earned certifications in cybersecurity and networking. Dedicated to maintaining secure, high-performance systems.

Resume objective works best when you’re just starting out or coming from a non-technical sphere.

Entry-level system administrator resume objective example:

Enthusiastic computer science graduate seeking an entry-level position as a system administrator. Eager to apply technical training in Linux and cloud infrastructure while expanding knowledge under experienced mentors.

How to showcase your system administrator resume skills?

The skills section shows what you can bring to the table, even without extensive work history. Recruiters often scan this part first to assess your fit for the role.

  • Hard skills are practical abilities—things you’ve learned through classes, labs, or certifications.
  • Soft skills relate to how you communicate with others and approach challenges in a team setting.

System administrator hard skills:

  • Windows Server administration
  • Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS)
  • Active Directory
  • DNS and DHCP configuration
  • Virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V)
  • Network troubleshooting
  • Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure basics)
  • Bash or PowerShell scripting
  • Backup and recovery
  • System monitoring tools (Nagios, Zabbix)
  • Patch management
  • Remote desktop support
  • Firewall and antivirus configuration
  • File system permissions
  • ITIL basics

Soft skills for system administrators:

  • Communication
  • Time management
  • Problem-solving
  • Team collaboration
  • Adaptability
  • Critical thinking
  • Attention to detail
  • Multitasking
  • Customer service
  • Patience
  • Accountability
  • Organization
  • Willingness to learn
  • Conflict resolution
  • Reliability

Entry-level Linux system administrator resume template

Entry-level Linux system administrator resume sample

Linux System Administrator Resume
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Resume for entry-level Linux system administrator | Text version

Diego Morales
San Jose, CA | diego.morales@email.com | (408) 555-0221 | GitHub.com/dmorales-linux

Summary

Entry-level Linux administrator with a passion for open-source environments, cloud integration, and automation. Completed hands-on internship working with server deployment and system monitoring. Strong scripting ability and attention to detail in log analysis and service configuration.

Skills

  • Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, RHEL)
  • Shell Scripting (Bash)
  • Apache & NGINX
  • Package Management (APT, YUM)
  • System Monitoring (top, journalctl)
  • User Permissions & File Systems
  • Adaptability
  • Critical Thinking
  • Self-Learning
  • Attention to Detail

Experience

Linux Admin Intern

Canonical Ltd. | Mountain View, CA | Jun 2024 – Aug 2024

  • Assisted in configuring and maintaining Ubuntu servers on AWS, performing updates and backups to ensure system reliability.
  • Created and modified Bash scripts to automate daily admin tasks like log archiving, permission updates, and service monitoring.
  • Worked alongside DevOps engineers to troubleshoot service failures and review system logs using journalctl and grep-based tools.
  • Participated in hardening system security by adjusting firewall rules and limiting access using SSH key pairs and user groups.

Barista

Starbucks | San Jose, CA | Oct 2022 – May 2024

  • Delivered exceptional service under pressure, managing long lines and customer requests efficiently during peak hours.
  • Helped resolve basic POS system errors and escalated recurring problems to corporate IT support when needed.
  • Created and maintained task checklists for daily operations, streamlining workflows for new employees.
  • Tracked inventory levels using handheld systems, providing accurate updates for weekly supply orders.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

San Jose State University | San Jose, CA | Graduated: May 2025

  • GPA: 3.5
  • Relevant Courses: Linux Administration, Operating Systems, Cloud Fundamentals, Scripting Languages
  • Capstone Project: Built a secure LAMP stack on a local VM for an e-commerce simulation, documenting all configuration and security steps
  • Open Source Contribution: Participated in GitHub issues and PRs for a community Linux project

Certifications

  • Linux Essentials (2025)
  • Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) – In Progress

Additional Information

  • Contributor: GitHub repositories with automation scripts, NGINX config examples, and security hardening checklists

This sample beginner system administrator resume is effective for several reasons:

  • Emphasizes skills with practical examples, making the document stand out for Linux-based roles.
  • Has meaningful contributions to GitHub and open-source projects, strengthening technical credibility.
  • Well-organized layout with certifications in progress and a solid blend of scripting, monitoring, and server management.
What academic credentials should I add?

If you're early in your IT journey, the education section in resume becomes a central piece of your document. It shows you've invested time into building your expertise. Include:

  • Degree and field of study (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Information Technology)
  • Name of college or university, with city and state
  • Graduation date or expected completion
  • Relevant courses (e.g., Systems Security, Networking, Scripting)
  • Awards or academic distinctions (e.g., GPA, Dean’s List)
  • Certifications related to IT or system administration
How to organize the experience section in the entry-level system administrator resume?
  • List your positions in reverse chronological order, with your most recent one first.
  • Mention any internships, campus IT jobs, or volunteer tech roles.
  • Describe tasks using clear bullet points, focusing on technical duties or tools.
  • Begin each statement with an action verb in resume that reflects ownership or initiative.
  • Share results or improvements you contributed to, such as uptime increases or resolved tickets.
  • Adapt this part to mirror keywords from the posting.

Conclusion

An entry-level system administrator resume doesn’t need to be packed with years of experience to make an impact.

By focusing on your technical knowledge, certifications, and the practical skills you’ve gained through coursework or internships, you can show employers that you're ready to hit the ground running.

Tailor your document for each job, keep it clean and professional, and remember that every expert was once a beginner. With the right approach, your first IT job could be just one application away.

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