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Desktop Support Engineer System Administrator Jobs in Washington, DC

hochunk

Desktop Support Engineer II

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

Must be a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) or Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator ... Prefer candidates with an active Help Desk Institute (HDI) Desktop Support Technician (DST ...

DANE LLC

Desktop Support Admin

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$62K - $67K/yr

We are seeking a skilled and motivated DSS System Administrator to join our dynamic team. As a valued member of our organization, you will play a crucial role in providing exceptional Desktop Support ...

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Desktop Support Engineer System Administrator information

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How much do desktop support engineer system administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for desktop support engineer system administrator in Washington, DC is $48.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.96 and $55.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a desktop support engineer system administrator?

A Desktop Support Engineer System Administrator is an IT professional who manages and supports the hardware, software, and network needs of an organization's computer systems. They provide technical support to users, troubleshoot issues with desktops, laptops, and peripherals, and ensure systems run efficiently and securely. Additionally, they may be responsible for installing and configuring operating systems, managing user accounts, and maintaining system backups. Their role is vital for minimizing downtime and keeping business operations running smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a desktop support engineer system administrator?

To thrive as a Desktop Support Engineer System Administrator, you need a solid understanding of computer hardware, operating systems, networking fundamentals, and commonly hold a degree in IT or relevant certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, or Microsoft certifications. Familiarity with tools such as Active Directory, remote desktop software, ticketing systems, and endpoint management platforms is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, patience, and effective communication are essential soft skills for assisting users and collaborating with technical teams. These competencies ensure timely resolution of technical issues, maintain system reliability, and deliver excellent user support in business environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by desktop support engineer system administrators, and how can they be overcome?

Desktop Support Engineer System Administrators often encounter challenges such as managing diverse hardware and software issues, balancing multiple support requests, and ensuring minimal downtime for end-users. Staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and maintaining strong communication with both technical and non-technical staff can help address these challenges. Effective time management and prioritization are crucial, as is documenting solutions for recurring problems to streamline future troubleshooting. Collaborating closely with other IT team members also helps in resolving complex issues more efficiently.

What is the difference between Desktop Support Engineer System Administrator vs Network Administrator?

AspectDesktop Support Engineer System AdministratorNetwork Administrator
CertificationsCompTIA A+, Network+, Microsoft CertifiedCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft certifications
Work EnvironmentEnd-user support, troubleshooting hardware/software issuesNetwork infrastructure management, configuring routers/switches
ResponsibilitiesMaintaining desktops, user support, system updatesDesigning, implementing, and maintaining network systems

The Desktop Support Engineer System Administrator primarily focuses on end-user device support and system maintenance, while the Network Administrator specializes in managing network infrastructure. Both roles require similar certifications and work in IT environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly, with the former centered on desktops and systems, and the latter on network hardware and connectivity.

Infographic showing various Desktop Support Engineer System Administrator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,045 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Systems Administrator (Desktop Support)

Springfield, VA • On-site

General Dynamics Information Technology
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about General Dynamics Information Technologyexternal

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

General Dynamics Information Technology rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

89th of 226 rated it services

Job description

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REQ#: RQ227747Public Trust: None Requisition Type: Regular Your Impact

Own your opportunity to serve as a critical component of our nations safety and security. Make an impact by using your expertise to protect our country from threats.

Job Description

Transform technology into opportunity as a Systems Administrator (Desktop Support) with GDIT. A career in enterprise IT means connecting and enhancing the systems that matter most. At GDIT you'll be at the forefront of innovation and play a meaningful part in improving how agencies operate.
At GDIT, people are our differentiator. As a Systems Administrator (Desktop Support) you will help ensure today is safe and tomorrow is smarter. Our work depends on TS/SCI cleared Systems Administrator joining our team to support our intelligence customer in Springfield, VA.

HOW A SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR (DESKTOP SUPPORT)WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

As a System Administrator (Desktop Support), you will be responsible for providing excellent technical support to end-users, maintaining desktop systems, and ensuring the reliable operation of computer systems. You will work closely with both on-site and remote users to resolve issues, coordinate upgrades, and provide hands-on support for desktop environments.

In this role, a typical day will include:

  • Independently develops technical solution for the management for software, hardware, configurations, and architecture. Provides interpretation to Systems matters that are moderately complex in nature.
  • Provide troubleshooting support for systems hardware and software issues that are highly complex.
  • Performs advance software installations and upgrades to operating systems and layered software packages.
  • Applies advanced knowledge in monitoring and tuning the system to achieve optimum performance levels.
  • Provides guidance to less experienced personnel on workstation/server data integrity matters and the implantation of standard software and hardware solutions.
  • Leads complex data/media recoverability following a schedule of system backups and database archive operations.
  • Evaluates and assesses existing systems and plans long term strategies.
  • Configure and maintain networked computer system, including hardware, system software, and applications
  • Conducts advanced to complex hardware and software audits of workstations and servers to ensure compliance with established standards, policies and configurations guidelines.
  • Recognized subject matter expert in job area typically through advanced education and work experience. Established operational plans. Manages large projects with limited oversight form manager.
  • Strong written and verbal communication is imperative when dealing with technically minded employees and non-technical colleagues
  • Train end-users on the proper use of hardware and software. May training large groups of end users.
  • May coach and review the work of less-experienced professionals.
  • May serve as a team or task leader (Not a people manager)
  • May require after hour support or weekend support for mission, program and special project support

WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO SUCCEED:

  • Knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
    • Thin Client using Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Technology
    • Experience and/or knowledgeable with: Windows 11; Windows 10; Citrix; SMS; and SCCM
    • End User Hardware
      • Thin Client, Thick Monitors, KVMs, Printers, Plotters Print Server Configurations, VOIP phone,
    • Desktop Image Management
    • Home Directory and Profile Support Services
    • E-mail Support Services
    • Software Support Services
    • Experience and/or knowledgeable with; Windows 7; Windows 10; Win11 Citrix; SMS; and SCCM
  • Excellent troubleshooting capabilities
  • Strong communication skills
  • Strong work ethic and attention to detail
  • Strong writing skills (consistently document work completed)
  • Strong time management skills and ability to work flexible schedules to meet job requirements
  • Ability to move and lift computers, printers, monitors, and other hardware
  • Team player and willing to share knowledge and learn from others to ensure team's success
  • Enthusiasm and ability to adapt to new and changing technologies

Education/Experience Requirement:

  • BA/BS (or equivalent experience)
  • 3 years of experience

Certifications:

  • Security+ or CASP
  • ITIL v4 Foundations

Location: Customer Site

US Citizenship Required

GDIT IS YOUR PLACE
At GDIT, the mission is our purpose, and our people are at the center of everything we do.
Growth: AI-powered career tool that identifies career steps and learning opportunities
Support: An internal mobility team focused on helping you achieve your career goals
Rewards: Comprehensive benefits and wellness packages, 401K with company match, and competitive pay and paid time off
Community: Award-winning culture of innovation and a military-friendly workplace
OWN YOUR OPPORTUNITY
Explore an enterprise IT career at GDIT and youll find endless opportunities to grow alongside colleagues who share your desire to drive operations forward.

#RoverGSS

Work Requirements
Years of Experience

3 + years of related experience

* may vary based on technical training, certification(s), or degree

Certification

CompTIA Security+ CE | CompTIA - CompTIA

Travel Required

None

Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship Required

Salary and Benefit Information

The likely hourly rate for this position is between $55,250.00 - $74,750.00. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Rather, salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and possibly contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range.
View information about benefits and our total rewards program.

Our Identity Verification Process

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during virtual interviews. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. By proceeding, you authorize the collection, processing, and use of your biometric data for identity verification and security purposes.

About Our Work

We are GDIT. A global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense and intelligence community. Our 26,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. We operate across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading mission-ready capabilities in AI, cloud, cyber and software development.

Join our Talent Community to stay up to date on our career opportunities and events at gdit.com/tc.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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About General Dynamics Information Technology

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GDIT is a global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense, and intelligence community. Its 30,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. The company operates across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber, and application development.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

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