In 2026, the role of a Systems Administrator remains a cornerstone of IT infrastructure, especially within dynamic businesses like Pappas Restaurants. As the hospitality industry increasingly relies on digital systems for operations, security, and customer engagement, demand for skilled system administrators is rising. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the salary expectations, key influencing factors, and job outlook for this position.
Average Salary for Systems Administrators at Pappas Restaurants (2026)
As of 2026, the average salary for a Systems Administrator at Pappas Restaurants ranges between $70,000 and $103,000 annually, depending on several variables such as experience, education, location, and additional certifications. The median salary tends to hover around $85,000 per year.
Entry-level (0–2 years): $60,000 – $72,000
Mid-level (3–5 years): $75,000 – $90,000
Senior-level (6+ years): $90,000 – $103,000+
A take-home pay for a $103,000 salary would be approximately $73,000–$78,000 annually after taxes, depending on the state and deductions like healthcare or 401(k) contributions.
Factors That Influence Salary
Several key variables can impact a systems administrator’s pay at Pappas Restaurants:
1. Experience
The more years in the field, the higher the pay.
Those with specialized experience in restaurant systems or cloud technologies often command premium wages.
2. Certifications
Certifications can significantly increase earning potential. In-demand certs include:
CompTIA Network+ / Security+
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
Cisco CCNA
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
3. Location
Salaries can differ depending on regional cost of living. For instance:
Houston or Dallas: Higher end of the scale ($90K–$103K)
Smaller Texas cities or suburban areas: Moderate ($70K–$85K)
4. Education
A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field can open doors to higher-level roles and salaries.
5. Industry-Specific Knowledge
Familiarity with POS systems, restaurant-specific software, and foodservice compliance can boost job value and income.
Job Outlook for Systems Administrators (2026)
Positive Employment Trends:
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports steady growth for IT roles, including systems administrators, at about 5% through 2030.
Restaurants, including chains like Pappas, are increasingly digitizing operations—enhancing job security for IT professionals in the foodservice sector.
Industry Demand:
Pappas Restaurants is modernizing its tech infrastructure, from kitchen systems to online ordering—making experienced IT personnel more critical than ever.
Salary Comparisons with Similar Roles
| Role | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| SAP Consultant | $112,000 – $135,000 |
| Peloton Instructor | $80,000 – $150,000+ (varies greatly) |
| Penetration Tester (Pentester) | $98,000 – $130,000 |
| Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano) | $90,000 – $115,000 |
Although some of these roles pay more, Systems Administration offers greater stability and more predictable career progression, especially in corporate or enterprise environments like Pappas Restaurants.
Benefits of Working at Pappas Restaurants
Pappas Restaurants is known for offering competitive benefits to its IT staff, including:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) matching
Flexible scheduling and PTO
Employee discounts at restaurant locations
Professional development programs
These benefits, combined with job stability, make it an attractive employer for IT professionals.
Tips to Increase Your Salary as a Systems Administrator
Earn Certifications: Focus on vendor-neutral and platform-specific certs.
Learn Scripting: Bash, Python, or PowerShell are highly valued.
Specialize: Gain skills in network security, cloud infrastructure, or restaurant management systems.
Stay Updated: Follow trends in DevOps, containerization (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes), and cloud platforms like AWS or Azure.
Conclusion
In 2026, a Systems Administrator at Pappas Restaurants can expect a rewarding salary between $70K and $103K depending on experience, skills, and location. With strong job security, valuable benefits, and a growing emphasis on IT in the hospitality industry, it’s an excellent career path for those interested in the intersection of technology and service. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow in your role, this position offers plenty of opportunity for advancement.