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Desktop Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Desktop Solutions Architect serves as the enterprise authority and visionary for the Windows based device architecture, strategy, innovation, and user experience. They are responsible for leading ...

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Azure Virtual Desktop Architect to lead the design, implementation, optimization, and escalation support of enterprise virtual desktop and application ...

MSTR Desktop Architect, Attributes, Facts, Hierarchy, Transformation, Logical table partition (Schema Objects) * Having experience on Creation of Custom Groups, Attributes, Consolidations, Facts ...

Advanced knowledge of Windows operating systems, Active Directory, Microsoft 365, Group Policy, endpoint security, and enterprise desktop architecture * Experience with PowerShell scripting and ...

Advanced knowledge of Windows operating systems, Active Directory, Microsoft 365, Group Policy, endpoint security, and enterprise desktop architecture * Experience with PowerShell scripting and ...

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Desktop Architect information

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$67

$79

$87

How much do desktop architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for desktop architect in the United States is $79.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76.44 and $84.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Desktop Architects and how can they be addressed?

Desktop Architects often encounter challenges such as managing diverse hardware and software environments, ensuring security compliance, and supporting seamless user experiences across devices. Addressing these challenges requires staying current with industry best practices, collaborating closely with IT security and support teams, and leveraging automation tools to streamline deployment and updates. Strong documentation and proactive communication with stakeholders also help in anticipating and mitigating potential issues.

What is the difference between Desktop Architect vs Desktop Support Specialist?

AspectDesktop ArchitectDesktop Support Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in IT or related field, certifications like Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator AssociateOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree, certifications like CompTIA A+ or Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate
Work EnvironmentDesigns and plans enterprise desktop solutions, works on architecture and deployment strategiesProvides technical support, troubleshooting, and maintenance for end-user desktops
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by large organizations, IT consulting firms, and enterprise environmentsCommon in corporate IT support teams, help desks, and small to medium businesses

The Desktop Architect focuses on designing and planning desktop infrastructure, ensuring scalability and security, while the Desktop Support Specialist handles day-to-day troubleshooting and user support. Both roles are essential in IT but serve different functions within the desktop management ecosystem.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Desktop Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Desktop Architect, you need expertise in desktop infrastructure design, operating systems (such as Windows and macOS), and a strong background in IT or computer science. Familiarity with virtualization tools (like VMware or Citrix), endpoint management systems (such as Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager), and relevant certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate) is typical. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are crucial to creating secure, efficient, and scalable desktop environments that support business productivity.

What Does a Desktop Architect Do?

A desktop architect, also called a systems architect, is responsible for providing technical expertise to the users of a company’s computer desktops or workstations. Your job duties include establishing technical standards for computer workstations, working with management of the company to enforce these architectural standards, and identifying areas for improvement. The qualifications for a career as a desktop architect include a bachelor’s degree, although some employers prefer a master’s degree in computer science or a related field. A successful desktop architect needs strong technical and interpersonal skills.

What is a Desktop Architect?

A Desktop Architect is an IT professional responsible for designing, implementing, and managing desktop computing environments within an organization. This role involves planning the deployment of operating systems, software applications, and security protocols across company computers. Desktop Architects ensure that desktops are secure, efficient, and meet the needs of end-users, often working closely with IT teams to maintain system performance and scalability. They also evaluate new technologies and create strategies for upgrades and migrations.
What cities are hiring for Desktop Architect jobs? Cities with the most Desktop Architect job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Desktop Architect jobs? The most popular types of Desktop Architect jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Desktop Architect jobs? The top employers for Desktop Architect jobs are:
What states have the most Desktop Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Desktop Architect jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Desktop Architect jobs? For Desktop Architect jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Desktop Architect job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $166,272 per year, or $79.9 per hour.
Desktop Solutions Architect

Desktop Solutions Architect

VCU Health System

Richmond, VA

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


VCU Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

The Desktop Solutions Architect serves as the enterprise authority and visionary for the Windows based device architecture, strategy, innovation, and user experience. They are responsible for leading the design and governance of all aspects that impact the Windows ecosystem, such as Endpoint Management, Active Directory, Entra ID, and Microsoft 365 (M365). The Desktop Solutions Architect is responsible for the Windows device lifecycle, including oversight of desktop image designs and builds, desktop imaging processes, automated endpoint management, Active Directory and Entra ID engineering, SSO, MFA, and M365 integration with applications like Office, Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint. This role collaborates with executive leadership, cybersecurity, compliance, and infrastructure teams to define standards, enforce governance, and lead transformational initiatives. The Desktop Solutions Architect also mentors engineering teams, evaluates emerging technologies, and plays a critical role in shaping the digital workplace strategy for the organization.

Essential Job Statements

Serve as the Champion of the End-User Windows Desktop experience and lead continuous improvement of Windows-based experiences in the organization

Be the Enterprise expert in Endpoint Management (Microsoft MECM and Intune) and drive best practices for the organization

Provide senior level expertise on hybrid Active Directory design and implementation

Develop and maintain best in class standards for device images and deployments, both on-prem and remote

Drive maximum utilization of existing Microsoft solutions like Entra ID for SSO/MFA, Conditional Access, and related Identity Management applications

Lead the evaluation and strategic adoption of emerging Microsoft Desktop-related technologies, integrations, and vendor solutions. Architect and oversee pilot programs, proof-of-concepts, and enterprise rollouts. Champion innovation by aligning technology capabilities with organizational goals and clinical outcomes.

Lead enterprise-wide initiatives to enhance system integration, automation, fault tolerance, and resiliency. Collaborate with clinical, security, infrastructure, and application teams to design and implement scalable, secure, and high-performing Microsoft Desktop solutions.

Design and implement advanced monitoring frameworks and performance dashboards. Deliver actionable insights to leadership through analytics and reporting. Continuously assess system health and recommend architectural improvements to optimize performance and user experience.

Interpret and disseminate technical advisories, vendor communications, and industry trends. Establish governance frameworks to ensure compliance, lifecycle management, and alignment with enterprise architecture standards.

Identify and mitigate risks related to system performance, security, and compliance. Lead proactive remediation efforts, including patching, configuration management, and lifecycle planning to ensure platform stability and supportability.

Manage vendor relationships and support contracts for Microsoft 365 and related services. Provide strategic recommendations to leadership on renewals, optimizations, and vendor performance. Evaluate alternative service models and licensing strategies to maximize value.

Deliver high-impact training sessions, workshops, or executive briefings on advanced Microsoft 365 topics. Serve as a subject matter expert and thought leader, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation across the organization.

Patient Population: N/A

Employment Qualifications

Required Education: Master's degree in computer science, Information Technology, Cyber Security, Information Systems or a related degree. Or relevant experience

Preferred Education: N/A

Licensing/ Certification

Licensure/Certification Required: Any Microsoft Certification related to Microsoft 365, Azure, Active Directory, Entra, or Window Desktops (e.g. Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate, Microsoft 365 Certified: Collaboration Communications Systems Engineer Associate, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert)

Licensure/Certification Preferred: N/A

Minimum Qualifications

Years and Type of Required Experience: 12+ years of endpoint administrative and solutions experience in a large deployment (10,000+ devices). 10+ years of experience with on-prem and remote Windows-based device imaging and deployment. 7+ years of experience with advanced user support and solution development. 7+ years Active Directory experience

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: Strong knowledge of healthcare technology regulations like HIPAA and HITECH. Expert knowledge of SSO, MFA, Conditional Access, and related Identity Management technology. Demonstrated highest level of understanding of system architecture, both software and hardware components. Strong knowledge of system performance and tuning techniques. Well versed in additional technologies: network, web, system security functions. Project planning and supervision. Strong organizational skills. Top level technical expert in highly specialized systems programming. Expert knowledge of personal computer hardware, including all system unit components and peripherals. Expert knowledge of Microsoft operating systems, networking software, and related items

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: 7+ years of experience working in a healthcare setting

Combination of education and experience in lieu of a degree.

Working Conditions: Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur. General office environment. Required to car travel to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions. May have periods of constant interruptions. Prolonged periods of working alone.

Physical Requirements

Physical Demands: Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (50-100 lbs.), Push/ Pull (0-50 lbs.), Stoop, Kneel, Squat, Balance, Bending

Work Position: Sitting, Walking, Standing

Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards

Physical Requirements: Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Perform shift work,Hear alarms/telephone/tape recorder, Reach above shoulder, Repetitive arm/hand movements, Finger Dexterity, Color Vision,Acuity - far, Acuity - near

Hazards: Depth perception, Exposure to potential electrical shock

Mental/Sensory -Emotional
Mental / Sensory: Strong Recall, Reasoning,Problem Solving, Hearing, Speak Clearly, Write Legibly, Reading, Logical Thinking

Emotional: Fast pace environment, Able to Handle Multiple Priorities,Frequent and Intense Customer Interactions,Able to Adapt to Frequent Change

EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran


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