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Assignment Desk Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Helpdesk Specialist T2

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$95K - $109K/yr

... assignment to the DTRA I3TS contract. * Experience in IT customer service including two (4) years of IT ticketing system experience and one (1) year of experience in remote desk takeover tools and ...

Showing results 41-60

Assignment Desk information

What does an assignment desk do?

An Assignment Desk is a central hub in a newsroom responsible for coordinating news coverage. Desk staff monitor breaking news, assign reporters and photographers to stories, manage incoming tips, and act as a communication point between field crews and newsroom management. They play a crucial role in ensuring that stories are covered efficiently and that resources are allocated appropriately throughout the day. The Assignment Desk is vital for keeping news operations organized and responsive to evolving events.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an assignment desk professional?

To thrive as an Assignment Desk professional, you need strong news judgment, organizational skills, and a background in journalism or communications. Familiarity with newsroom management systems, wire services, and social media monitoring tools is typically required. Excellent communication, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities help manage breaking news and coordinate coverage effectively. These skills ensure timely, accurate assignment of news stories and efficient newsroom operations under pressure.

How does an assignment desk professional typically collaborate with reporters and photographers during breaking news coverage?

Assignment Desk professionals play a crucial role in coordinating breaking news coverage by maintaining constant communication with reporters and photographers in the field. They assign stories, relay updates, and manage logistics such as location changes or access issues. By serving as the central point of contact, they ensure that field teams have the information and resources needed to cover developing events efficiently and accurately. This collaborative process often involves quick decision-making and multitasking in a fast-paced newsroom environment.

What is the difference between Assignment Desk vs News Producer?

AspectAssignment DeskNews Producer
Primary RoleCoordinates and assigns news stories, manages reporters and field crewsCreates, plans, and oversees news content, including story selection and production
CredentialsJournalism degree or related experience, strong organizational skillsJournalism or communications degree, editorial experience
Work EnvironmentNewsroom, often under tight deadlinesNewsroom, editorial meetings, and production settings
Industry UsageCommonly used in broadcast and print mediaPrimarily in broadcast and digital media outlets

While both roles are vital in news organizations, the Assignment Desk focuses on coordinating news coverage and assigning stories, whereas the News Producer is responsible for creating and overseeing the overall news content and broadcast flow.

What are popular job titles related to Assignment Desk jobs in Virginia?

For Assignment Desk jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assignment Desk jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Assignment Desk jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Assignment Desk job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Helpdesk Specialist

SMS Data Products Group, Inc.

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

$58K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

SMS is hiring a Helpdesk Specialist (Intermediate) to support Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) on the Integrated Information Technology Support Services (I3TS) contract. The role operates within the Service Desk function, which serves as the single, initial contact point for customers and mission partners to resolve incidents and problems for DTRA infrastructure, networks, applications, and systems.

Since 1976, SMS has specialized in modernizing legacy IT and sustaining complex enterprise environments for federal agencies. With the goal of building long-term partnerships with our customers, we invest in our employees by providing the training, tools, and support they need to keep critical missions operational, improve performance, and reduce risk. SMS is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, with offices and on-site operations at customer locations throughout the United States. For additional information on SMS, visit www.sms.com.

Submit your resume today!

Job Responsibilities

*****Short Term Assignment Approximately thru November 2026****This could be a little longer.

  • Install, configure, and upgrade desktop computers, laptops, printers, and other peripherals.
  • Install and configure operating systems (primarily Windows) and various software applications.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve hardware and software issues in a timely manner.
  • Perform network troubleshooting and connectivity support.
  • Provide technical support and training to end-users.
  • Document all work performed in our help desk ticketing system.
  • Maintain an inventory of all IT assets.
  • Assist with the setup of new workstations.

Required Qualifications

  • Must possess an active DoD Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
  • Proven experience as a Desktop Support Engineer, IT Technician, or similar role.
  • Strong knowledge of computer hardware, software, and peripherals.
  • Experience with installing internal computer components (e.g., RAM, hard drives, video cards) and their corresponding drivers.
  • Experience with KVM switches and setting up multi-monitor configurations.
  • Experience with Windows operating systems (Windows 10, Windows 11).
  • Familiarity with basic network protocols (TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS).
  • Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication and customer service skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Salary Range - $58,000 - $66,000

SMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Req # 2026-5442