Desktop Support Specialist

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 41,527 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is looking for a Desktop Support Specialist at Columbia College, MO. This role supports the technology needs of faculty, staff, and students through direct technical assistance and proactive problem resolution.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in customer service, experience in desktop support, and proficiency with Microsoft tools. This full-time position requires commitment to enhancing the academic and operational experiences through effective technology management.

Qualifications

• Advanced customer service skills to manage difficult situations.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for desktops, laptops, and peripherals.
• Manage software installation and updates.
• Support audiovisual technologies in campus settings.

Skills

Customer service skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Technical troubleshooting

Active listening

Communication skills

Education

Associate’s degree or high school diploma with relevant experience

Tools

Microsoft operating systems

Apple OS and iOS

Job description

Desktop Support Specialist

Department: Technology Services

Location: Columbia, MO

Type: Staff, Full-time

Pay: $41,527 to $45,000 per year (Pay range may vary based on geographic location)

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Job Summary

Columbia College is seeking a dedicated and proactive Desktop Support Specialist to join our Technology Services team. This role ensures the seamless operation of technology for our faculty, staff, and students, directly contributing to the academic and operational excellence of our institution. The ideal candidate will be passionate about technology, possess exceptional customer service skills, and a desire to thrive in a collaborative environment.

Essential Functions

• Technical Support and Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve issues related to desktops, laptops, printers, and other peripherals, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations. Provide responsive and empathetic support to faculty, staff, and students through phone, online, and in-person interactions, fostering a supportive and efficient learning and work environment. Ensure timely and effective resolution of technical issues, thereby improving the overall experience for our faculty, staff, and students.
• Software and Equipment Management: Install, configure, and update software and operating systems, ensuring all devices are secure and up to date. Assist with the set-up and configuration of new equipment, ensuring all devices meet institutional standards and are ready for use. Perform routine maintenance on devices to prevent technical issues, contributing to the longevity and reliability of college technology. Maintain accurate records of hardware, software, and equipment, supporting efficient resource management and planning.
• A/V Support: Provide support for audiovisual (A/V) technologies used in classrooms, conference rooms, and campus events. This includes setting up and maintaining projectors, sound systems, video conferencing equipment, and interactive displays.

Mission Alignment and Professional Conduct

• Perform job duties in alignment with Columbia College’s vision, mission, and values, actively contributing to the development and success of the Technology Services department.
• Deliver superior customer service, building strong relationships with all college constituencies.
• Fulfill additional responsibilities as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to the college’s needs.
• Display respect and civility in all communications, fostering a positive and inclusive campus environment.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance during established hours of operation, with the flexibility to work additional hours as needed.

Required Core Competencies and Professional Experience

• Ability to fluently read, write, and understand the English language.
• Proficiency with active listening, speaking, writing, critical thinking, judgment and decision making, monitoring, reading comprehension, time management, coordination, and management of personnel resources.
• Proficiency in using a variety of computer and technology-related software and equipment, including Microsoft Office products and database systems.
• Proficiency in using web-based technologies, including database systems.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment, with or without direct supervision.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, customer service, and organizational skills.
• Ability to successfully pass clerical speed and accuracy aptitude tests.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate’s degree, or high school diploma with relevant experience.
• Prior customer service and/or desktop support experience.
• Proficient with Microsoft operating systems and Office suite.
• Aptitude for troubleshooting hardware and software issues.
• Strong customer service skills, with the ability to manage difficult situations with patience and professionalism.

Preferred Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field.
• Technical certifications (CompTIA A+, ACSP, HDICSC, or related).
• 2-3 years of desktop support or related support experience.
• Experience with Apple OS and iOS support. (Apple School Manager, JAMF)

Other Requirements

• Ability to satisfy, within the parameters set by the College and consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, a criminal background check as a condition of employment.
• Occasional travel to remote campus locations for technology refresh visits.

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Individuals seeking accommodation should contact the Human Resources Department without delay. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time, talk, and hear. The employee is required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crawl. Employee must be able to type on a computer keyboard and use a computer monitor on a regular basis.

Work Conditions

The work environment conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is rarely exposed to outside weather conditions; however, possible exposure to hazards and physical risks to personal safety may occur while operating certain equipment. The noise level in the work environment is usually mild.

Background Check and Eligibility

The offer of employment and assignment to duties is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check. The information may include, but is not limited to, academic, residential, achievement, performance, attendance, disciplinary, employment history, credit history, driving history, and criminal history of public record.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Columbia College is committed to creating an inclusive employee experience for all regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age or disability. The College maintains a safe place for open discourse; supports activities that promote diversity and inclusion; and overall, fosters a sense of community that welcomes everyone.

In compliance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) and the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), the Department of Campus Safety for Columbia College has provided the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report and crime statistics for the main campus and venues nationwide.

Columbia College is required to distribute this information to all current and prospective employees and students. Please contact Human Resources at 573-875-7495 for a printed copy.