University of Chicago · 2 months ago
IT Desktop Administrator
Chicago, IL
Full-time
Hybrid
Entry, Mid Level
$60K/yr - $95K/yr
2+ years expThe University of Chicago is a prestigious institution dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing global challenges. The IT Desktop Administrator will support the PME Information Technology by managing IT infrastructure, resolving end-user issues, and ensuring system security and reliability.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Designs, implements, and maintains complex IT infrastructure systems, including servers, networks, storage solutions, and cloud platforms, to support organizational operations and scalability requirements
Continuously monitors system performance, identifies potential issues, diagnoses problems, and implements solutions to minimize downtime and ensure optimal system reliability
Implements and maintains security protocols, conducts regular security assessments, ensures compliance with industry standards and regulations, and protects systems from cyber threats and vulnerabilities
Analyzes computing systems, processes, and controls to ensure that all operations are efficient and functional
Ensures communication tools are functional and creates secondary support systems in the event of equipment failure
Integrates various hardware and software components, optimizes system performance, and ensures seamless communication between different technological platforms and applications
Maintains industry standards and stays abreast of new software, solutions, releases, and product enhancements
Provides consistent support relating to the PME Core Facilities, Laboratory environments, and external entities, while providing support for day-to-day requests as a whole for the PME community
Creates and maintains comprehensive technical documentation, collaborates with cross-functional teams including developers and IT support staff, and provides technical guidance and support to stakeholders across the organization. Uses best practices and IT knowledge to guide customers through the installation of applications and computer peripherals
Deploys a variety of devices to customers, including computers, tablets, mobile phones, and printers/copiers
Assists and responds to all queries, questions, concerns, and requests on behalf of the entire PME user base
Contributes to providing feedback on best practices supporting various IT projects and is an active participant in improving infrastructure
Actively participates, communicates, develops, oversees, and coordinates internal and University-wide IT initiatives and projects as directed by the PME Executive Director of Information Technology
Works independently to solve complex end-user issues regarding hardware, site licensing, software, and networking
Assists in transitioning manual processes to electronic workflows including operational improvement initiatives
Establishes and manages existing vendor relationships
Implements functional, system, and program specifications. Assists in revising existing system logic difficulties as necessary, under the direction of more experienced colleagues
Supports the IT development group in building new systems and enhancing existing systems. Assists in coding, testing, debugging, and implementing software solutions. Prepares documentation on system enhancements and/or alternatives
Administers new IT developments, keeps up with evolving business requirements and uses knowledge of University systems to recommend appropriate systems alternatives and/or enhancements to current systems
Performs other related work as needed
Qualification
Required
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline
Creates and maintains comprehensive technical documentation
Works independently to solve complex end-user issues regarding hardware, site licensing, software, and networking
Assists in transitioning manual processes to electronic workflows including operational improvement initiatives
Establishes and manages existing vendor relationships
Implements functional, system, and program specifications
Supports the IT development group in building new systems and enhancing existing systems
Administers new IT developments, keeps up with evolving business requirements and uses knowledge of University systems to recommend appropriate systems alternatives and/or enhancements to current systems
Performs other related work as needed
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (required)
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in computer engineering or related discipline
2-5 years of experience as a support specialist
Demonstrated experience in computer user and infrastructure support in resolving issues and providing a high level of service
Background in data management and proper protocols/procedures
Setup and maintain digital signage solutions
Maintain a searchable and accessible knowledge base
Knowledge of professional IT practices with a concentration on data privacy and security
Knowledge of Office 365 environment, creation of domain system, etc
Knowledge of remote management toolsets
Demonstrated ability to design, configure, deploy, and maintain software and computer infrastructure
Implement and utilize systems management tools for server monitoring, root-cause analysis, and remediation while instituting appropriate security strategies for safeguarding infrastructure resources
Strong understanding of ITIL and ITSM frameworks
Accomplish goals working through formal and informal channels
Demonstrate creativity, problem-solving, critical analysis, initiative, judgment, and, decision-making skills
Effectively manage projects in a cross-functional environment while adapting to rapidly changing technology and applying it to business needs and presenting tools and methods to improve workflow
Demonstrate solid planning and organizational skills emphasizing detail and thorough follow-up
Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
Strong relevant subject matter knowledge
Assess the IT needs on a proactive vs. reactive basis and provide recommendations for future technology for the University
Communicate technical information to a non-technical audience in a clear and coherent manner
Benefits
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.
Company
University of Chicago
One of the world’s great intellectual destinations, the University of Chicago empowers scholars and students to ask tough questions, cross disciplinary boundaries, and challenge conventional thinking to enrich human life around the globe.
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
University of Chicago has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (341)
2024 (318)
2023 (285)
2022 (233)
2021 (179)
2020 (172)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Benedicte Nolens
Distinguished Executive in Residence
Recent News
2025-11-08
San Gabriel Valley Tribune
2025-10-23
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