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Hardware Associate Jobs in Waterloo, ON (NOW HIRING)

Senior Desktop Engineer

Guelph, ON · Hybrid

CA$40 - CA$50/hr

User Support: Assist end users with issues related to hardware, software, and connectivity via ... Education: Associate degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field ...

Broadcast Engineer, Level 1

Waterloo, ON · Remote

CA$60K - CA$70K/yr

Basic understanding of encoding hardware (TVU, Videon, Haivision, etc) * Basic networking knowledge ... AWS Solution Architect Associate (SAA) * 1 year of live production on-site (Produce, Direct, TD ...

Shipping & Receiving

Kitchener, ON · On-site

CA$19.59 - CA$23.41/hr

Unpack products, verify paperwork to parts (P/N, S/N, Qty, etc.) (raw material & hardware) * Pack and protect all product for final shipment to customers and outside vendors for processing * Pick ...

... hardware and software test systems used to evaluate product and component performance. This role ... Assign tasks to technical support associates and monitor progress to ensure timely execution

Hardware Associate information

What is a hardware associate?

Hardware Associates are retail employees who specialize in assisting customers with hardware products and home improvement supplies. They help customers locate items, provide product information, and advise on the best tools or materials for specific projects. Additionally, Hardware Associates may be responsible for stocking shelves, maintaining store displays, and ensuring the sales floor is organized. Their role is vital in providing excellent customer service and supporting the overall operations of hardware or home improvement stores.

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

To thrive as a Hardware Associate, you need basic knowledge of hardware products, inventory management, and customer service, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory tracking software, and product stocking tools is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and a helpful attitude are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient operations, accurate inventory, and excellent customer experiences in retail hardware environments.

What are some typical challenges hardware associates face when assisting customers in a retail hardware environment?

Hardware Associates often encounter challenges such as helping customers find the right products for specific projects, especially when customers are unfamiliar with technical terms or materials. They must stay knowledgeable about a wide range of products, keep up with inventory changes, and sometimes troubleshoot basic DIY questions on the spot. Effective communication and patience are essential, as the role requires explaining complex information in simple terms and ensuring customers leave with the correct items for their needs.

What is the difference between Hardware Associate vs Hardware Technician?

AspectHardware AssociateHardware Technician
Required CertificationsCompTIA A+, vendor-specific certificationsCompTIA A+, specialized hardware certifications
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, warehouses, customer support centersRepair shops, data centers, onsite client locations
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics retailers, IT support companiesIT service providers, hardware repair companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level hardware rolesTechnical hardware repair and troubleshooting

Hardware Associates typically focus on customer support, stocking, and basic hardware setup, often in retail or support environments. Hardware Technicians perform more in-depth repairs, troubleshooting, and hardware maintenance, usually in repair shops or data centers. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in complexity and work setting.

What cities near Waterloo, ON are hiring for Hardware Associate jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, ON with the most Hardware Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Hardware Associate job openings in Waterloo, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

IT Support Specialist (m/f/d)

Waterloo, ON • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

If you want to be a Maxonian and help bring the best 2D and 3D visual effects, motion graphics, gaming, AR/MR/VR, visualization and design software to the market, then we should have a chat.

WHO WE ARE:
Packed with brilliant, passionate people, Maxon is deeply rooted in the creative industry and committed to empowering the artistic community.We are Maxonians. We encourage and motivate each other to be curious learners. We are obsessed with customer fulfillment and inspiration -before, during and after purchase. If you too want to be a Maxonian and help bring to market the finest software products for 2D and 3D visualeffects, motion graphics, games, AR/MR/VR, visualization and general design, let's talk.

What you will do:

End User Support & Hardware

  • Provide support for end-user equipment in accordance with Maxon IT standards, security policies, and operational guidelines.
  • Build, configure, and deploy custom hardware systems tailored to user and business requirements.
  • Provide advanced support for Windows-based systems, including troubleshooting OS, drivers, applications, and system performance issues.
  • Provide intermediate to advanced support for macOS systems, including configuration, troubleshooting, and user support.
  • Provide intermediate to advanced support for mobile devices and tablets, including enrollment, configuration, and troubleshooting.
  • Perform advanced hardware troubleshooting, diagnostics, repair coordination, and replacement as required.

Asset, Security, and Compliance Management

  • Track and manage hardware assets using the asset management system, ensuring accurate inventory, lifecycle tracking, and assignment records.
  • Ensure endpoint devices comply with IT security standards, including patching, encryption, endpoint protection, and compliance monitoring.

Networking Support

  • Provide advanced network troubleshooting support for end users, including connectivity, VPN, Wi-Fi, and network performance issues, and escalate when necessary
  • Administer and support network switching infrastructure, including VLAN configuration, port assignments, and basic network diagnostics.

Systems and Server Support

  • Perform patching and updates of servers in accordance with IT procedures and maintenance schedules.
  • Provide basic system administration support, including network connectivity troubleshooting and service availability checks.
  • Perform backup tasks according to established procedures and verify backup integrity when required.
  • Triage, prioritize, and escalate support tickets appropriately, ensuring timely resolution and proper communication.

Documentation and Process Compliance

  • Document troubleshooting steps, resolutions, and relevant technical details in the ticketing system.
  • Maintain accurate asset records in the asset management system.
  • Document recurring issues, solutions, and technical procedures in Zendesk FAQ and Confluence.
  • Maintain process logs and project-related documentation as required.
  • Participate in IT projects, including planning, implementation, rollout, and post-implementation support.

End User Environment & Training

  • Prepare and deploy end-user work environments, including hardware setup, software installation, and peripheral configuration.
  • Provide guidance to end users on new software, technologies, and IT best practices, including security awareness.

General Responsibilities

  • Support IT operational stability and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Perform other duties as assigned in support of IT operations and business needs.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for:

Work Experience / Technical Expertise

  • 2-5 years of relevant IT support experience.
  • 3+ years of experience supporting Windows and macOS end users in a professional environment.
  • Expert-level experience in end-user hardware support, assembly, deployment, and troubleshooting.
  • 1+ year of networking experience or CompTIA Network+ certification or equivalent knowledge.
  • 3+ years of experience in network cabling installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
  • Experience using IT service management systems such as Zendesk, ServiceNow, or equivalent.
  • Experience with asset management and endpoint management systems is preferred.

Certifications (preferred but not required):

  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Network+
  • Microsoft Associate Certification or equivalent
  • Apple certification (ACSP or equivalent) is a plus

Soft Skills:

  • Dependable and communicative team player with strong collaboration skills.
  • Reliable, solution-oriented, and quality-focused, with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
  • Ability to work independently and manage responsibilities with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to prioritize workload effectively in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.

Communication Skills:

  • Ability to clearly understand, explain, and communicate IT support topics effectively to both technical and non-technical end users and peers alike.
  • Ability to translate technical issues into understandable terms and provide clear guidance to users.
  • Very good written and verbal communication skills in English.
  • Ability to document technical information clearly and accurately

Salary Range*: 54-60 k CAD annually

*Salaries at Maxon are based on a candidate's specific criteria including experience, skillset, education and location. Maxon uses industry-driven survey data for building compensation structures to make sure our employees are receiving fair and competitive wages.

Vacancy Information

  • All roles posted are opportunities we are actively recruiting for, unless stated otherwise. Active postings are for an existing vacancy within Maxon.

Recruitment Process Disclosure

  • Maxon values a human-centered hiring approach. Every application is reviewed by our recruiting team. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) or automated systems to screen, assess, or select applicants. In case you would like more information regarding the processing of your application data, please refer to ourPrivacy Policy for Applicants.

Accessibility

  • Maxon is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please contactcareers@maxon.net


WHAT WE OFFER:

You will be part of a highly motivated international team of specialists working in an environment that offers a warm welcome with detailed onboarding and a dedicated mentor for a familiarization period as well as a wide range of individual development possibilities. Interested in joining our team? Click "Apply" to submit your application. Don't meet every single requirement? At Maxon we embrace diversity, are avid explorers and curious learners, so if you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't entirely match every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply in any case. You may be just the right candidate for this or other positions.

We're looking forward to hearing from you!