Desktop Support Technician job description template
If you are hiring for this role, start here. This free template is our detailed definition of the position, with everything you need to find and hire the right person. Copy it, add your own requirements, and post it.
What is a Desktop Support Technician?
Desktop Support Technicians are skilled IT professionals responsible for the maintenance of the company’s IT infrastructure.
They install, configure, maintain, and repair monitors, keyboards, mice, routers, and other peripheral equipment to ensure the proper functionality of hardware systems.
Desktop Support Technicians also perform routine tests, examinations, and inspections to evaluate the functionality of computer systems, troubleshoot and resolve computer-related and technical issues and malfunctions, and test and ensure the security of computer systems.
The top Desktop Support Technician skills.
Five things separate a strong hire from a résumé that reads well. Use these as your scorecard criteria.
The job description, ready to post.
Copy it as written, or edit it until it sounds like your company. Both work.
Our company is looking for a skilled Desktop Support Technician to join our IT department. As a Desktop Support Technician, you will be responsible for the maintenance of the overall company’s IT infrastructure. You will deal with the installment, maintenance, and reparation of monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, routers, and other technical equipment. You will also manage the hardware and software upgrades and ensure the proper functioning of computer systems.
Additionally, you will identify, troubleshoot, and resolve computer-related issues and malfunctions, as well as security and network connectivity errors. You will also perform routine tests, examinations, and inspections to evaluate and maintain computer systems. You will also educate clients and staff members on proper hardware and software usage.
To be successful as a Desktop Support Technician, you should have excellent technical, communication, problem-solving, attention to detail, and organizational skills.
Duties and responsibilities
- Oversee and maintain the overall company’s IT infrastructure
- Install, maintain, and repair monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, routers, and other peripherals
- Install and manage hardware and software upgrades
- Prepare manuals and instructions and train computer users on how to properly use the equipment
- Receive requests for support and provide IT and related assistance upon request
- Perform routine tests, examinations, and inspections to evaluate and maintain computer systems
- Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve computer-related issues and malfunctions
- Test security and block unapproved access
- Monitor daily computer performance
- Coordinate with other IT professionals to resolve complex technical problems
- Identify and resolve network connectivity issues
- Provide support and assistance in the development of new systems and applications
- Train and educate staff members and clients on proper hardware and software usage
Requirements
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field
- Relevant industry-related certification
- Prior working experience as a Desktop Support Technician, Computer Technician, or a similar role
- Outstanding computer hardware and software knowledge
- Excellent installation, upgrade, restoration, and maintenance abilities
- Strong verbal and written communication
- Exceptional diagnostic, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
- Organization and time management
Take the template with you
Copy it straight into your job board or ATS, or have it emailed to you with the interview questions for this role.
Degree first, then the certification.
Desktop Support Technicians require strong technical skills and knowledge to pursue this career.
They typically need an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, such as information technology, computer science, etc.
There are various certification opportunities that can enhance candidates’ hiring chances and prove their competency.
Those certifications are Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST), Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), and Microsoft Certified Professional (MSP).
Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician
Validates skills in supporting and troubleshooting desktop environments.
MicrosoftMicrosoft Certified Solutions Expert
Demonstrates expertise in designing and implementing technology solutions.
MicrosoftMicrosoft Certified Professional
Confirms foundational knowledge of Microsoft technologies and products.
MicrosoftSample interview questions for a Desktop Support Technician.
Once you have gathered the applications, work through these in order. Twelve questions across four areas, enough to tell your shortlist apart.
- Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself?
- When did you become interested in computers?
- Do you have any other interests or hobbies outside of work?
- Why are you interested in working for this company in particular?
- Do you possess any relevant professional certifications that prove your competency for this position?
- If you get hired, what salary would you hope for?
- What did your typical working day at your last company look like?
- Have you ever failed to resolve a problem?
- How do you remain organized and keep track of your assignments?
- What is your familiarity with NTLDR errors?
- What is your process for identifying and resolving a complex technical issue?
- Could you explain the difference between RAS and VPN servers?
How much to pay when hiring.
Annual pay by percentile. Where you land depends on the size of the cycle they will own, and the 25th percentile is usually where a first analyst hire sits.
Hourly equivalents run from $14 at the 10th percentile to $31 at the 90th.
Candidates may apply under a different name.
Post the title your industry uses and keep the rest of the description. These three roles overlap enough that the same posting usually reaches all of them.
Three titles, one description.
Search behavior varies by industry, so the same job is advertised under several names. If you are unsure which one your candidates search for, run two titles and see which fills.
Help Desk Technician
IT Technician
Frequently asked questions.
What do Desktop Support Technicians do?
Desktop Support Technicians are IT professionals who install, maintain, and repair hardware systems and equipment.
They identify and troubleshoot technical errors and problems, perform tests and inspections to ensure functionality, ensure the security of computer systems, upgrade hardware and software systems, and educate others on proper computer usage.
Where do Desktop Support Technicians work?
Desktop Support Technicians can work in any industry that requires the usage of computer systems for multiple purposes.
They work in IT companies, Managed Service Providers, healthcare, education, pharmaceuticals, Network Operation centers, etc.
What are the educational requirements for Desktop Support Technicians?
An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field is a common requirement for Desktop Support Technicians.
They can also choose to complete some of the relevant certification programs to complement their knowledge and skill set.
What skills are necessary for Desktop Support Technicians?
Desktop Support Technicians must have exceptional technical knowledge, as well as communication, organization, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
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