I'm in my mid-20s and have a B.S. in IT, with 3.5 years of experience as an L2 technician at an MSP in Florida. I'm feeling worn out from the high ticket volume and low pay—just $23 an hour! I'm eager to move on to something that offers better compensation and isn't as chaotic.
My experience includes:
- Microsoft 365 administration across multiple tenants, resolving mailbox issues, managing mail flow, and setting up DKIM/DMARC/SPF.
- Troubleshooting Entra ID/Azure AD.
- Conducting breach responses and explaining incidents to executives.
- Working with DNS/domain issues through GoDaddy and Cloudflare.
- Handling Windows/network troubleshooting tasks, including printers and VPNs.
- Writing PowerShell scripts to streamline repetitive tasks.
I've also dabbled in GRC work and have strong client communication skills.
I'm looking to transition into roles that utilize my skills and pay better, possibly automation or cloud-related jobs. What job titles should I focus on that would realistically increase my salary? Is automation a solid career path, and are there other quick ways for me to escape the MSP lifecycle? What's your experience in making similar transitions?
4 Answers
You might find some great opportunities by exploring reputable MSPs that pay around $80k, especially if you apply directly to hiring managers rather than through generic job listings. Research companies that appeal to you, reach out personally, and express your interest thoughtfully. Don’t just settle for applying to a bunch at once—quality over quantity will yield better results.
To break free from your current situation, start by targeting job titles that align with your skills, like M365 Admin or Junior Cloud Engineer. Certifications like Security+ or CCNA could also help boost your resume. Ultimately, getting interviews is crucial—if you come across as friendly and capable, you’ll surely find a team willing to hire you! Also, consider expanding your professional network directly with clients and decision-makers; it's all about who you know in this field.
Definitely keep your current job while applying for junior sysadmin positions; it might take some time, but persistence pays off. I also recommend learning Linux if you haven't already. Build your own home lab, experiment with projects like setting up a media server, or dive deeper into network management. This hands-on experience will not only bolster your resume but also your confidence.
I transitioned from an MSP to the DoD and saw my salary jump significantly, from potentially $75k max at MSP to $145k now. If you're looking for quicker financial gains, consider seeking roles that require security clearances. Enlisting can give you a clear path into IT with benefits like education funding and solid job security. Given your age, it might be a good route to consider.
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