Desktop Support Specialist

IT Desktop Support SpecialistLocation: San Diego, CA 92121Work Arrangement: 100% OnsiteEmployment Type: 6-Month Contract (potential to extend / convert)Pay Rate: $28.00/hourSchedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PMStart Date: ASAPAbout the OpportunityA leading academic medical research institution in San Diego is seeking a Computer Services Consultant I to provide hands-on IT support to faculty, researchers, and administrative staff. This position supports a collaborative research environment focused on advancing treatments for Alzheimer's disease and related neurological conditions.The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in desktop support, excellent customer service skills, and experience troubleshooting Windows and macOS environments. This role also involves supporting conference room technology, hybrid meetings, and audiovisual equipment.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide Tier 1 desktop, help desk, and end-user technical support for hardware, software, and peripheral devices.Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues involving Windows, macOS, Microsoft 365, Adobe Acrobat, Zoom, and other business applications.Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot desktops, laptops, printers, monitors, and related IT equipment.Respond to technical support requests, prioritize incidents, and document resolutions using an IT ticketing system.Assist with user account administration, access permissions, shared resources, and basic network connectivity issues.Provide onsite audiovisual support for meetings, presentations, and hybrid events, including Zoom, microphones, displays, and conference room equipment.Set up, test, and troubleshoot meeting room technology to ensure smooth operation of virtual and in-person meetings.Maintain accurate technical documentation, equipment records, and support procedures.Collaborate with internal IT teams to escalate complex issues and ensure timely resolution.Deliver professional, responsive, and customer-focused technical assistance to end users.Provide occasional evening or weekend support for special meetings and events as needed.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.Minimum 1–2 years of hands-on desktop support, help desk, or end-user IT support experience; 3+ years preferred.Experience supporting both Windows and macOS operating systems.Proficiency troubleshooting Microsoft 365, Adobe Acrobat, Zoom, and common desktop applications.Experience diagnosing and resolving computer hardware, software, peripheral, and basic networking issues.Familiarity with IT ticketing systems, incident management, and technical documentation.Hands-on experience supporting hybrid meetings, conference room audiovisual systems, and Zoom meetings.Strong communication, troubleshooting, organizational, and customer service skills.Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with technical teams and nontechnical users.Must be locally based in the San Diego area and available to work 100% onsite.Flexibility to provide occasional evening or weekend support when required.Preferred Qualifications3+ years of professional IT desktop support or technical support experience.Previous experience supporting IT operations within a university, healthcare, research, or academic environment.Experience with user account administration, access permissions, and shared network resources.Familiarity with conference room technology, microphones, projectors, displays, and audiovisual troubleshooting.Experience supporting executives, faculty, researchers, or other professional end users.