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Senior Desktop Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Ford Motor Company

Senior Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site +1

$112K - $148K/yr

NET - Windows desktop applications (WinForms/WPF, DevExpress). * Web development - JavaScript ... You will not own a single project - you will move fluidly across many, providing senior engineering ...

Ford Motor Company

Senior Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$115K - $192K/yr

Desktop applications - data upload/management tools, calibration utilities, and instrument ... You will not own a single project - you will move fluidly across many, providing senior engineering ...

Ford

Senior Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$100 - $193/hr

Desktop applications - data upload/management tools, calibration utilities, and instrument ... senior engineering leverage wherever it is needed most. Concretely, you will: * Tackle the hard ...

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Senior Desktop Engineer information

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$9

$41

$74

How much do senior desktop engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior desktop engineer in Detroit, MI is $41.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.53 and $53.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior desktop engineer?

A Senior Desktop Engineer is an IT professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining desktop computing environments within an organization. They manage software deployments, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and ensure that all end-user devices are secure and up to date. Senior Desktop Engineers also develop standard operating procedures, lead technical projects, and may mentor junior staff. They play a crucial role in supporting employees' productivity by providing reliable desktop solutions and support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior desktop engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Desktop Engineer, you need deep expertise in Windows and Mac OS environments, endpoint management, and troubleshooting, typically supported by a degree in IT or related certifications like Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate. Familiarity with tools such as SCCM, Intune, Active Directory, and scripting languages like PowerShell is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and a customer-focused attitude set top performers apart. These skills and qualities ensure reliable system performance, efficient support, and a positive user experience in complex enterprise environments.

What are some common challenges faced by senior desktop engineers, and how can they be effectively managed?

Senior Desktop Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing large-scale software deployments, ensuring security compliance across diverse systems, and supporting end-users with varying technical skills. Addressing these requires strong problem-solving abilities, up-to-date knowledge of endpoint management tools, and effective communication with both IT peers and non-technical staff. Proactively documenting processes and staying current with evolving technologies can help streamline workflows and minimize disruptions.

What is the difference between Senior Desktop Engineer vs Desktop Support Specialist?

AspectSenior Desktop EngineerDesktop Support Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in IT or related, certifications like CompTIA A+ or Microsoft CertifiedHigh school diploma or associate's degree, certifications like CompTIA A+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining desktop systems in corporate environmentsProviding technical support and troubleshooting for end-users
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in IT departments across various industries, focusing on infrastructureCommon in help desks, support centers, and smaller IT teams

The Senior Desktop Engineer typically handles advanced desktop infrastructure tasks, including system design and deployment, while the Desktop Support Specialist focuses on resolving user issues and providing technical support. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities within IT teams.

How much do senior desktop engineers make?

Senior desktop engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the company. In high-demand areas, salaries can exceed this range, especially for those with advanced skills in troubleshooting, network configuration, and enterprise environments.

What are popular job titles related to Senior Desktop Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Senior Desktop Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Desktop Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Desktop Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Senior Desktop Engineer jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Senior Desktop Engineer job openings:

Senior Desktop Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Desktop Engineer job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,027 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Senior Desktop Support Specialist

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Prepare, image, and deploy new computer hardware and peripherals.

  • Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and connectivity issues across Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.

  • Provide front-line technical support to faculty, staff, and students, including support for AV/classroom technology and network issues.

University Of Michigan rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 630 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Who We Are
At Michigan Engineering, we develop the talent and technologies that move society forward and serve our state and national interests. Through discovery and innovation, we create the foundational knowledge and practical technologies to solve not only today's most pressing challenges, but also power industries and change lives. Our programs and community are designed to promote personal well-being and achievement - enabling everyone to unlock their potential and contribute with confidence.
Job Summary
Join us at CAEN, the University of Michigan College of Engineering's IT organization, as a Desktop Support Specialist providing front-line technical support to faculty, staff, and students. Reporting to the Desktop Support Manager, you'll serve as a primary point of contact, troubleshooting hardware, software, and connectivity issues across Windows, macOS, and Linux in offices, classrooms, labs, and research environments. Responsibilities include imaging and deploying new computers, diagnosing and resolving network and printing issues, supporting AV/classroom technology, and ensuring endpoints are secure and up to date. You'll be expected to approach every interaction with patience - listening attentively, explaining solutions clearly, and ensuring users feel both supported and empowered. The ideal candidate is customer-focused, collaborative, and able to communicate effectively with users at varying levels of technical experience.
Responsibilities*
Desktop Engineering & Infrastructure
  • Deployment: Prepare, image, and deploy new computer hardware and peripherals.
  • Network Coordination: Manage network port activations and VLAN assignments, acting as the bridge between endpoint devices and core networking.
  • Asset Management: Assist with maintaining accurate inventories for hardware, software licenses, and departmental supplies to ensure fiscal accountability.

Customer Support
  • Provide front-line end-user support to a diverse customer base across multiple campus locations and varied local IT environments, with an emphasis on higher-education needs for faculty, researchers, and staff.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues across Windows, macOS, and Linux systems, including support for printing, mobile/handheld devices, and common peripherals (docks, displays, keyboards/mice, webcams, etc.).
  • Deliver high-touch service in every interaction, with the patience of an 'Apple Genius Bar' specialist-listening attentively, asking clarifying questions, explaining solutions in plain language, and ensuring users feel supported and empowered.
  • Communicate clearly and proactively with customers and teammates on issue status, timelines, and next steps; document work and outcomes in the ticketing system.
  • Identify recurring problems and contribute feedback, documentation, and process improvements that reduce repeat incidents and improve the customer experience.

End-User Support, Documentation, & Training
  • Customer Education: Train faculty and staff on productivity and collaboration tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Slack/Teams).
  • Onboarding: Facilitate IT onboarding for new hires, ensuring all hardware, software, and access permissions are ready for Day 1.
  • A/V Support: Provide immediate, hands-on troubleshooting for conference room audiovisual systems and presentation technologies.
  • Responsive Support: Manage incoming requests via phone, email, and in-person visits with a focus on prompt resolution and clear communication.
  • Interdepartmental Support: Provide "roving" support to various departments, cross-training with embedded staff to eliminate single points of failure.
  • Workflow Management: Monitor and prioritize ticket queues to ensure Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are met during high-volume periods.
  • Technical Documentation: Author and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and produce performance reports for leadership.

IT Security & Compliance
  • Act as a local contact for IT security incidents, coordinating directly with department and CAEN staff and campus security teams.
  • Proactively apply security patches and monitor vulnerability scans to ensure system integrity.

Required Qualifications*
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical field (Engineering, Science, or Technology) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 5+ years of experience administering Windows (Active Directory), macOS, and Linux systems, including command-line scripting and desktop productivity troubleshooting.Experience supporting macOS in an enterprise environment, including hardware troubleshooting and OS deployment.
  • Experience administering current Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu, RHEL, CentOS) and proficiency in writing/editing command-line shell scripts (Bash, Python).
  • Ability to manage hardware lifecycles and use tools to oversee hundreds of computers in a diverse environment.
  • Working knowledge of security fundamentals (patching, encryption, and firewalls) and the ability to translate institutional security policies into operational procedures.
  • Skills in incident assessment, communication, and documentation, with a focus on post-incident process improvement.
  • Experience in establishing endpoint inventory and lifecycle management, and ensuring consistent configuration across diverse endpoint populations.
  • Deep understanding of TCP/IP protocols and network troubleshooting.
  • Demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service and professional collaboration.
  • Familiarity with desktop storage devices and modern backup technologies.

Desired Qualifications*
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional IT experience.
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Active Directory, including the creation, implementation, and troubleshooting of Group Policy Objects (GPOs).
  • Experience using desktop management tools to administer dozens to hundreds of computers in a single IT environment.
  • Experience configuring and troubleshooting Network Attached Storage (NAS) and enterprise backup solutions (e.g., CrashPlan).
  • Familiarity with research/teaching environments and the ability to balance security controls with academic mission needs.
  • Experience partnering with compliance teams to support audits or control attestations.

Why Work at Michigan?
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:
  • Generous time off
  • A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
  • Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Long-term disability coverage
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
  • Maternity and Parental Leave

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Work Locations
This position is a fully onsite role located on North Campus.
Underfill Statement
This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.
Additional Information
Physical Demands/Work Environment:
  • Routinely moves technology equipment weighing up to 50 pounds across campus for various classroom and event needs.
  • Positions oneself to install computer equipment, including under desks
  • Requires the ability to travel to various locations to conduct work and deliver materials

Compliance, Security, and Schedule
  • Data Stewardship: You will manage sensitive institutional data in strict accordance with University policy and federal/state regulations. These regulations include HIPAA, FISMA, CUI, ITAR, and EAR. You will ensure data integrity and prevent unauthorized access.
  • Safety & Training: We require completion of a general lab safety training course within the first three months of hire.
  • Work Schedule: Standard on-site business hours apply, with occasional after-hours work required for scheduled upgrades or emergency outage response.

Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
280235
Working Title
Senior Desktop Support Specialist
Job Title
Desktop Support Specialist Sr
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Nonexempt
Organizational Group
College Engineering
Department
CoE-IT/CAEN
Posting Begin/End Date
8/21/2026 - 9/07/2026
Salary
$60,000.00 - $80,000.00
Career Interest
Information Technology

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About University of Michigan

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The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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