IT Roles and Salaries in universities in the USA, UK and Australia
In universities, IT roles can vary depending on the size and focus of the institution, but they typically include positions that manage technology infrastructure, support academic functions, and ensure smooth operation of administrative systems. Below are some common IT roles in universities and their associated salaries, based on general industry trends (though they can vary by region, institution type, and experience level):
1. IT Support Specialist
- Role: Provides technical support to staff, faculty, and students. Troubleshoots hardware and software issues, assists with network connectivity, and handles ticket-based support.
- USA Salary: $45,000 - $65,000 per year
- UK Salary: £22,000 - £30,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $60,000 - $80,000 per year
2. Systems Administrator
- Role: Maintains and manages the university's servers, networks, and overall infrastructure. Ensures uptime, security, and performance of essential systems.
- USA Salary: $60,000 - $90,000 per year
- UK Salary: £30,000 - £45,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $75,000 - $100,000 per year
3. Network Administrator
- Role: Oversees the university’s network systems, ensuring that they are secure, fast, and reliable. This role often involves configuring routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless systems.
- USA Salary: $60,000 - $85,000 per year
- UK Salary: £30,000 - £45,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $70,000 - $95,000 per year
4. Database Administrator
- Role: Manages databases used for student records, academic resources, and other administrative purposes. Ensures data integrity, backup, and performance optimization.
- USA Salary: $70,000 - $100,000 per year
- UK Salary: £35,000 - £50,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $85,000 - $110,000 per year
5. IT Security Specialist
- Role: Protects the university's IT infrastructure from cyber threats. Works on firewalls, encryption, access controls, and incident response.
- USA Salary: $75,000 - $110,000 per year
- UK Salary: £40,000 - £55,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $90,000 - $120,000 per year
6. Software Developer
- Role: Develops custom software and applications tailored to the needs of the university. This can include student portals, learning management systems, and administrative tools.
- USA Salary: $70,000 - $100,000 per year
- UK Salary: £35,000 - £50,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $80,000 - $110,000 per year
7. IT Project Manager
- Role: Manages technology-related projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet the university's objectives. Works closely with IT staff, faculty, and external vendors.
- USA Salary: $80,000 - $120,000 per year
- UK Salary: £45,000 - £65,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $100,000 - $130,000 per year
8. Chief Information Officer (CIO)
- Role: The senior IT leader within the university, responsible for overseeing all IT strategies, policies, and investments. Works with senior leadership to align IT initiatives with institutional goals.
- USA Salary: $120,000 - $200,000 per year
- Salary: £80,000 - £130,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $150,000 - $250,000 per year
9. Learning Management System (LMS) Administrator
- Role: Manages and supports the university’s learning management system (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle). Ensures its proper functioning and provides training to faculty and students.
- USA Salary: $55,000 - $80,000 per year
- UK Salary: £30,000 - £45,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $70,000 - $95,000 per year
10. Data Scientist / Analyst
- Role: Works with large datasets related to student performance, institutional planning, or research. Analyzes trends and provides insights to help inform decisions.
- USA Salary: $70,000 - $110,000 per year
- UK Salary: £40,000 - £60,000 per year
- Australia Salary: AUD $90,000 - $130,000 per year
If you’re considering this role or evaluating a position, reviewing specific job descriptions from the institution of interest can provide more detailed insights – check out our jobs board for the latest openings.