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What is a desktop engineer and how to become one
A desktop engineer is an individual responsible for managing and maintaining computer hardware and software systems within an organization. They ensure that all desktop computers, laptops, and peripherals run smoothly and efficiently. A desktop engineer installs, configures, troubleshoots, and repairs computer systems, including hardware and software issues. They also manage and maintain network connectivity and security protocols. Desktop engineers work closely with end-users to provide technical support and training on various programs and applications.
What general advice would you give to a desktop engineer?
Laura A. Meyer M. Ed.
Professor, Northeastern University
Avg. Salary $102,893
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 10%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.41%
Asian 13.55%
Black or African American 11.28%
Hispanic or Latino 15.84%
Unknown 5.35%
White 53.57%
Genderfemale 11.25%
male 88.75%
Age - 41American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 41Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is good
6.4 - fair
What are the pros and cons of being a desktop engineer?
Pros
Good salary and benefits
High job demand
Continuous learning opportunities
Chance to work with new and emerging technologies
Opportunity to solve complex technical problems
Cons
High pressure to meet deadlines
Long and irregular hours, including on-call duties
High stress levels due to the critical nature of computer systems
Need to keep up-to-date with constantly evolving technology
May need to deal with difficult clients or colleagues
Desktop engineer career paths
Key steps to become a desktop engineer
Explore desktop engineer education requirements
Start to develop specific desktop engineer skills
Skills Percentages Customer Service 9.49% SCCM 8.75% Troubleshoot 6.89% PowerShell 5.58% OS 3.95% Complete relevant desktop engineer training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New desktop engineers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a desktop engineer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real desktop engineer resumes.Gain additional desktop engineer certifications
More About CertificationsDesktop engineer certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific desktop engineer certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for desktop engineers include Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT) and CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP).
Research desktop engineer duties and responsibilities
- Assign and manage extensions, voicemail accounts using AVAYA phone system.
- Partner with Microsoft, Symantec and other vendors to manage applications on all corporate desktops.
- Work on installing, configuring and managing multiple LAN/WAN network technologies (Cisco switches, routers and firewalls).
- Manage software deployments using SCCM and oversee monitoring of complex applications.
Prepare your desktop engineer resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your desktop engineer resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a desktop engineer resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable desktop engineer resume templates
Build a professional desktop engineer resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your desktop engineer resume.
Apply for desktop engineer jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a desktop engineer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first desktop engineer job
Are you a desktop engineer?
Share your story for a free salary report.
Average desktop engineer salary
The average desktop engineer salary in the United States is $102,893 per year or $49 per hour. Desktop engineer salaries range between $77,000 and $136,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do desktop engineers rate their job?
Desktop engineer reviews
You get to help a lot of people in many different ways as well as learning new things about technology
I have aids now due to the painfulness of sitting down all day
There was nothing to like. Everyone was polite an hard workers
Working with The people
I decided to go to technical support because I've been fascinated by technology all my life and I love working with the people as well. I want to use my technical know-how to solve directly the problems that customers have. I want to be the person who makes life easier and more enjoyable for people who have had a problem. This is what I like most as a technical Support.
I don't like sitting around being inactive. So I'll keep my self always busy
Updated January 8, 2025
