What should I do after my boss quit and left me in a tough spot?

Just tell them you need more direction on your responsibilities. This is a startup, and if they don’t provide clear guidance, things will stay chaotic. Don't hesitate to ask for specific tasks. Also, consider what the other tech pros in your environment are working on and how you can learn from them, whether it's through hands-on practice or online tutorials.

You might want to rethink your plan about becoming the new sys admin's 'vassal.' He may be overwhelmed with his own responsibilities and might not have time to mentor. That said, make the most of this situation - reach out for help where you can, but also remember that this isn’t about sacrificing your own well-being. Keep your future in mind—don’t let this experience prevent you from finding a place where you're respected.

It sounds like you're sitting on easy money while doing very little work. If I were you, I’d focus on using this time to learn skills that can help you land a better job later. Try looking into certifications or online courses that focus on system administration or IT support. This way, you’ll not only enhance your skill set but also keep your resume strong. Just don’t get too comfortable in this role—keep your eyes open for other opportunities too!

Honestly, it might be best to consider moving on from this job as quickly as you can. Reporting to HR and feeling useless isn't conducive to your growth. A lot depends on what you want to specialize in within IT. Start exploring different fields in technology and see where your interests lie. Once you find that out, you can seek out the necessary prerequisites or foundational knowledge needed to move forward.