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Desktop Support Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Desktop Technician

Rosslyn, VA ยท On-site

$118K/yr

Duties include: * Provide technical support for desktops, laptops, and peripheral devices ... Associate degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent ...

Desktop Technician

Rosslyn, VA ยท On-site

$118K/yr

Duties include: * Provide technical support for desktops, laptops, and peripheral devices ... Associate degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent ...

Duties include: * Provide technical support for desktops, laptops, and peripheral devices ... Associate degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent ...

Duties include: * Provide technical support for desktops, laptops, and peripheral devices ... Associate degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent ...

Showing results 21-40

Desktop Support Associate information

See Washington salary details

$17

$26

$35

How much do desktop support associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for desktop support associate in Washington is $26.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Desktop Support Associate vs Help Desk Technician?

AspectDesktop Support AssociateHelp Desk Technician
CertificationsCompTIA A+, Network+CompTIA A+, ITIL
Work EnvironmentOn-site, in-office support for end-usersHelp desk, remote or on-site support for users
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments in various industries, corporate settingsIT support centers, corporate, and government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles involve supporting end-users with hardware and software issues, often requiring similar certifications like CompTIA A+. The main difference lies in the work environment: Desktop Support Associates typically work on-site assisting users directly, while Help Desk Technicians may handle remote support or work in a help desk setting. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers find the right role based on their skills and preferences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a desktop support associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Desktop Support Associate, you need strong troubleshooting skills, a solid understanding of computer hardware and software, and typically a degree or certification in information technology or a related field. Familiarity with operating systems (like Windows and macOS), ticketing systems, remote desktop tools, and basic networking is essential. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help you resolve user issues efficiently and foster positive interactions. These abilities are crucial for minimizing downtime, ensuring user productivity, and maintaining smooth IT operations.

How do I get into a desktop support associate?

To become a desktop support associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical skills in operating systems, hardware, and software troubleshooting. Relevant certifications such as CompTIA A+ can improve job prospects, and experience with tools like remote support software is often preferred. Entry-level roles may require basic customer service skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by desktop support associates, and how can they effectively address them?

Desktop Support Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple support requests simultaneously, troubleshooting unfamiliar technical issues, and balancing remote and in-person support. To address these, it's important to prioritize tasks based on urgency, utilize organizational knowledge bases, and develop strong communication skills to clearly explain solutions to non-technical users. Additionally, staying updated on the latest hardware and software trends helps associates resolve issues more efficiently and provide proactive support.

Is desktop support a good entry level job?

Desktop Support Associate is often considered a good entry-level role in IT, as it provides foundational experience in troubleshooting hardware and software issues, customer service, and technical problem-solving. It typically requires basic knowledge of operating systems, networking, and common tools like remote support software, making it accessible for those starting their IT careers.

What does a desktop support associate do?

A Desktop Support Associate is responsible for providing technical assistance and support related to computer systems, hardware, and software. They respond to user queries, troubleshoot issues, and help resolve problems with desktops, laptops, and peripherals. Their duties often include installing updates, configuring new devices, and maintaining IT documentation. They play a key role in ensuring that employees have reliable access to the technology they need to do their jobs efficiently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Desktop Support jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Desktop Support jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Desktop Support Associate job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,381 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Deputy Project Manager/Desktop Technician Manager/Queue Manager

Ardent

Rockville, MD โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Why do you need to choose between doing important work and having a fulfilling life?ย At Ardent, we have both. Ardent employeesย are committed to solving our customers' most difficult problems-and weย are committed to the well-being, personal goals, and professional development of our employee. We are "All In." We put forth our strongest effort possible to get the mission accomplished and we do it together. We respect the skills and experience you bring to the Ardent team. And we provide a rewarding environment to help you succeed.ย 

We offer highly competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, and an exceptional culture that embraces flexibility, innovation, collaboration, and career growth. A collective service mindset underpins our work, and a shared camaraderie to serve clients, colleagues and our communities set us apart. Our full commitment to being "All In" for our employees and our clients is not just our approach, it is our standard. If this sounds like the perfect fit for you, choose Ardent and make a difference with us.ย 


Ardent is seeking a Deputy Project Manager / Desktop Technician Manager / Queue Managerย to join our team.ย ย 

This is an on-site positionย in Rockville, MD.

Position Description:

Ardent is seeking a Deputy Project Manager / Desktop Technician Manager / Queue Manager to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will support daily IT operations by overseeing desktop support teams and managing the ServiceNow ticket queue. You will ensure efficient workload distribution, SLA adherence, and continuous visibility into ticket performance while serving as a backup to the Project Manager.

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Support the Project Manager in managing day-to-day desktop support operations.
  • Serve as the primary lead for the ServiceNow ticket queue, including triage, routing, assignment, and closure oversight.
  • Schedule and distribute workload across Tier 1 and Tier 2 technicians based on skillsets, availability, and SLA priorities.
  • Monitor SLA response and resolution metrics; proactively escalate risks to prevent breaches.
  • Provide operational oversight and guidance to desktop support technicians to ensure service quality and consistency.
  • Act as Project Manager during absences, ensuring continuity of operations and decision-making.
  • Prepare weekly reporting, including ticket summaries, backlog status, and trend analysis for leadership presentations.
  • Coordinate staffing coverage across shifts, including planned absences and surge support requirements.

Requirements:ย 

  • Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or Associate's degree with equivalent experience).
  • Minimum of 5 years of IT operations management experience.
  • At least 3 years of supervisory, team lead, or queue management experience.
  • Hands-on experience with ServiceNow administration and ITSM processes (incident, request, and problem management).
  • Strong understanding of SLA management, ticket prioritization, and service delivery metrics.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage competing priorities, and operate in a fast-paced environment.
  • ITIL Foundation certification.
  • Active Public Trust clearance (or ability to obtain).

Preferred Qualifications:ย 

  • ServiceNow Certified System Administrator.
  • CompTIA A+ or Network+.
  • Experience supporting federal or enterprise IT service desk environments.

Due to the nature of the work we support, all candidates in consideration for this role must be willing to undergo the government issued background investigation process. We highly encourage all Veterans and those with disabilities to apply.


Ardent is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job applicant on the bases of race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran's status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other basis protected by state, local, or federal law.