What Certs would I need to do this?

neo9006

Alright I had found something and this is what it listed.

Previous experience with computer hardware, operating systems and platforms, Desktop, networking and Active Directory
-Understanding of Microsoft Server, Exchange, Windows Desktop solutions such as Windows 7 and Windows 8, Active Directory, Microsoft System Center toolset, Lync , TCP/IP, Ethernet, Internet, Enhanced Routing (OSPF), and VPN Network Skills.

I know for example I would need an A+ cert for sure, and not sure what Windows cert I would need to apply to this job? Any help would be appreciated.

ptilsen

You would need experience, period. Certs are going to help, but you won't be able to get yourself into a position like that with just a credential or three.

MCSE: Server Infrastructure, Messaging, and Private Cloud would be the primary targets for a job like that. CCNA and other Cisco certs might help as well.

Of course, it really depends on what the position actually is, but it looks to me like a generalist MS-focused systems engineer position.

neo9006

Yes I know I need exp, but that is the preferred requirements, not the minimum requirement. I have almost all of the minimum requirement and will be getting my degree by Dec. Well you can't get exp unless someone gives you a chance. Its a job for an Entry-Level Systems Engineer. Thanks for you help.

networker050184

Entry level systems engineer is not exactly entry level to the IT field. A lot of people do not seem to understand this and can't understand why they can't get an 'entry level' job.

neo9006

So let me this by pass this and not bother applying is what I should be doing. I guess I will go back to the drawing board. Thanks.

cknapp78

networker050184 wrote: »

Entry level systems engineer is not exactly entry level to the IT field. A lot of people do not seem to understand this and can't understand why they can't get an 'entry level' job.

Agreed. Entry Level Systems Engineer typically implies at least 2-3 years of IT Experience already obtained. If you feel you have the experience then go for it. Just be prepared in case the hiring manager or recruiter do not contact you. It also depends on whether or not the hiring company has a small or large IT Dept and in willing to have someone learn on the job.

Corey

networker050184

neo9006 wrote: »

So let me this by pass this and not bother applying is what I should be doing. I guess I will go back to the drawing board. Thanks.

If you want to apply by all means go right ahead. Just keep your expectations in line with reality.

ratbuddy

networker050184 wrote: »

Entry level systems engineer is not exactly entry level to the IT field. A lot of people do not seem to understand this and can't understand why they can't get an 'entry level' job.

What job titles would give the 'right' experience an employer would look for in candidates for an entry level SE job?

networker050184

Usually people go through some sort of support/operations/administration type work before moving into the engineering realm. I'll let guys more experienced on the systems side of the house give more specifics though.

dbrink

My path over the past 13 years has been.

desktop/server support in a small company->desktop support larger company->systems admin in same larger company->larger company bought by even larger company and eventually promoted to senior systems engineer.

ptilsen

I would want 2-4 years on the admin side, preferably supporting Windows servers, AD, Exchange, file, DHCP, print, and DNS servers along with Windows clients. I wouldn't restrict candidates to a certain product version; 2003-era and later is acceptable. Experience with any iteration of System Center or SMS and VBScript or PowerShell scripting would be a "plus," and broad (not necessarily deep) knowledge of TCP/IP networking and common protocols would be expected (CCENT or Net+ helpful, but not required). This particular position might be even more general, so higher-level Cisco certs would be nice, and generally never hurt. MCSA 2003, 2008, 2012, Windows 7, or Windows 8 also helpful (MCSE would typically not be required, especially for entry-level), possibly require at least one.

f0rgiv3n

The quick n' dirty answer would be: MCSE/MCSA & CCNA would get you an interview. Experience would get you the job.

neo9006

Thank you I am looking at the meat and potatoes of things when looking at the job as far as what certs would help get me in the door. Those are the preferred requirements of the job, just about everything for the minimum requirements I have matched and with my degree in Dec will give me everything I would need. I understand what everyone is saying, experience counts a lot when looking at it. I remember getting my current job with no exp but I knew the basics of what to do. I will see what happens, if nothing then at least I tried.

redz

Always go for it, especially if it's out of your depth. The worst thing that happens is that they say "no". The best thing that happens is that you get to take on great new set of challenges, work ~70hrs a week between studying and work just to be able to effectively do 40hrs a week worth of work, and eventually you become competent to do it all in just 40hrs a week. At that point, you've gained a great deal of experience and knowledge, and if/when you leave, not only are you a better employee for it, but your management will have seen how hard you worked and be able to vouch strongly for your work ethic - which is just about the only measurable for an employee that cannot be taught.

I always try to get way out of my depth every time I take a new position. I gain the skills, leave the company better than I found it, and then I move on to bigger and better challenges.

EDIT: What I'm tryin to say is, whether you have the certifications or not, whether you have the experience or not, whether you have the degree or not, APPLY. I work at a freakin' university and don't even have a degree (apparently they frown on that).

By the way, anybody looking for a mid level Virtualization Engineer with no relevant experience in the past eight months? I'll work for Ketel One and a company paid VCP boot camp.

neo9006

Thanks redz. I plan to apply. A figure what do I have to lose, as you have said all they can say is no. If that is the case then you apply else where. I need a new challenge and look forward to do something different than my current job. I figure I might take a year off of school when I finish up. I want to help my wife with her school and study on certs. If I decide to go after my masters, I will do it then. I work at a university too here in Texas. I want to thank everyone for their advice and encouragement.