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Help Desk Specialist Job Description Template

Job Description Template

Help Desk Specialist Description Template

July 16, 2021

Job Description Template For Help Desk Specialist

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What is a Help Desk Specialist?

A Help Desk Specialist is a critical team member responsible for providing technical support and troubleshooting assistance to employees or customers within an organization. From an employer’s perspective, this role involves ensuring the smooth functioning of IT systems by resolving hardware, software, and network-related issues efficiently.

A Help Desk Specialist acts as the first point of contact for technical concerns, requiring strong problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and the ability to communicate effectively with users of varying technical proficiency. Employers value this role for its contribution to minimizing downtime, maintaining productivity, and enhancing user satisfaction, making it essential for the overall success of the organization’s IT operations.

Related Job Titles for Help Desk Specialist

The Top Help Desk Specialist Skills

Skill Why it's important
Technical Proficiency

Employers need a Help Desk Specialist who is well-versed in hardware, software, operating systems, and networking. This expertise ensures that issues are diagnosed and resolved efficiently, minimizing system downtime and maintaining operational productivity. A solid technical foundation also allows for better guidance when addressing complex problems.

Problem-Solving Skills

The ability to think critically and analyze technical issues is crucial for providing effective solutions. Employers prioritize this skill because it enables the Help Desk Specialist to resolve problems quickly, reducing disruption and demonstrating reliability in managing IT challenges.

Communication Skills

Clear and empathetic communication is essential, as the Help Desk Specialist often interacts with individuals who may not be tech-savvy. Employers value this skill because it ensures users feel supported and understood, leading to higher satisfaction and better overall service delivery.

Time Management Skills

The ability to prioritize and resolve multiple issues efficiently is vital in a fast-paced environment. Employers appreciate time management skills because they ensure that critical problems are addressed promptly, keeping operations running smoothly and preventing backlogs of unresolved tickets.

Customer Service Orientation

A strong focus on providing excellent service helps create a positive experience for users. Employers seek this trait because it fosters trust, encourages users to seek help without hesitation, and reinforces the organization's commitment to resolving issues proactively and professionally.

Help Desk Specialist Job Description Template (Free)

We are looking for a qualified and skilled Help Desk Specialist who can help our customers on time and support our clients. In this position, you will be required to respond to inquiries over the phone or in person, diagnose problems, and find solutions.

You will also be in charge of performing basic computer maintenance, keeping the database updated, and modifying hardware systems. Our ideal candidate is someone with previous customer service experience, who is fast but practical, and who has a high level of communication skills.

Help Desk Specialist Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Serve as the first point of contact for technical support inquiries via phone, email, or chat.
  • Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and network issues efficiently.
  • Install, configure, and update computer systems and applications.
  • Document support requests, troubleshooting steps, and resolutions in the ticketing system.
  • Escalate complex issues to higher-level IT staff when necessary.
  • Provide clear and effective instructions to users, including non-technical individuals.
  • Monitor and maintain IT systems, identifying potential issues before they escalate.
  • Assist in onboarding new employees by setting up accounts and devices.
  • Collaborate with other IT team members to implement and improve support processes.
  • Stay updated on the latest technologies and best practices to enhance support services.

Help Desk Specialist Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (preferred but not required).
  • Relevant certifications such as CompTIA A+, ITIL, or Microsoft Certified: Fundamentals (preferred).
  • Proven experience in a help desk or technical support role.
  • Strong knowledge of hardware, software, operating systems, and networking.
  • Proficiency in using ticketing systems and remote support tools.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
  • Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to delivering excellent service.
  • Availability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, as needed.

Accounting Specialist Interview Questrions

Sample Interview Questions for a Help Desk Specialist

The best way to find an ideal candidate for a job is to ask them questions that will allow you to gauge their ability and determine whether they are looking for a position that will push them in the right direction.

In addition, an interview gives employers the chance to establish whether the candidate has the skills needed for the position, use these sample interview questions for a Help Desk Specialist.

Personal
  1. What motivated you to pursue a career in IT support?
  2. Can you describe a time when you dealt with a challenging situation outside of work?
  3. How do you typically handle stress in a fast-paced environment?
Human Resources
  1. How do you ensure effective communication with team members from diverse backgrounds?
  2. Have you ever faced a conflict with a colleague, and how did you resolve it?
  3. What do you consider most important in maintaining workplace professionalism?
Management
  1. How do you prioritize multiple technical issues with tight deadlines?
  2. Can you describe a time when you implemented a process to improve help desk efficiency?
  3. How do you handle situations where a user’s issue requires escalation?
Technical Skills and Knowledge
  1. How would you troubleshoot a user unable to connect to a VPN?
  2. Can you walk us through your approach to diagnosing a slow computer system?
  3. What steps would you take to resolve a widespread network outage?

What are the Educational Requirements for a Help Desk Specialist?

Employers typically require a Help Desk Specialist to have at least a high school diploma, though an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field is often preferred. Relevant certifications, such as CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified: Fundamentals, or ITIL, are highly valued as they demonstrate technical competence and a commitment to professional growth.

Employers may also prioritize candidates with practical experience or specialized training that aligns with the organization’s specific IT infrastructure and tools. This combination of education and certifications ensures the candidate possesses the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the role.

How Much to Pay a Help Desk Specialist when Hiring

Based on the job and the experience, the range will vary quite a bit. Help desk specialists can earn between $30,000 and $71,500 annually.

The median income for this profession is $52,636 meaning $25 per hour.

Percentile 10% 25% 50%
(Median)
75% 90%
Hourly Wage $14 $20 $25 $29 $34
Annual Wage $30,000 $42,000 $52,636 $60,000 $71,500

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Frequently Asked Questions about Help Desk Specialist

 

What are the main responsibilities of a Help Desk Specialist?

Providing technical support, troubleshooting computer issues, and guiding users through solutions.

What qualifications and skills does a Help Desk Specialist need?

Strong understanding of computer systems, excellent communication skills, and relevant certifications like CompTIA A+ or Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST).

How do Help Desk Specialists contribute to IT operations?

By resolving user issues promptly, minimizing downtime, and offering feedback for system improvement.

What challenges do Help Desk Specialists face, and how do they handle them?

Challenges include managing user frustration, complex technical problems, and high support volumes. They handle these by maintaining patience, using problem-solving skills, and prioritizing tasks effectively.

Similar Job Descriptions as Help Desk Specialist

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