Hardware Technician (Tier 2 and Tier 3 Support) at MISSION FIRST INC

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Hardware Technician (Tier 2 and Tier 3 Support)
Company: Mission First Inc
Location: Annapolis Junction, MD, United States
Job Type: On-site
Category: System Administrator
Date Posted: May 26, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site only

🚀 Role Summary

Provide on-site and remote hardware support for computer workstations, servers, and peripherals.
Conduct site surveys, assess user requirements, and prepare engineering plans.
Configure hardware, train users, and document configuration changes.
Build specialized interconnecting cables and manage hardware acquisitions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on hands-on hardware support and installation, requiring a strong technical background and excellent communication skills to work effectively with users and teams.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Hardware Support: Provide on-site and remote support for computer workstations, servers, printers, and peripherals.
Site Surveys: Conduct site surveys to assess current site configuration and user requirements.
Engineering Plans: Prepare engineering plans and site installation Technical Design Packages.
Hardware Configuration: Configure computers, communications devices, and peripheral equipment.
User Training: Train site personnel in the proper use of hardware.
Cable Building: Build specialized interconnecting cables as needed.
Hardware Acquisitions: Analyze existing requirements and prepare specifications for hardware acquisitions.
Documentation: Prepare drawings documenting configuration changes at each site and site installation and test reports.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong understanding of hardware components, installation processes, and troubleshooting techniques to ensure optimal performance and minimal downtime for users.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School/GED or A.A. or B.S. in a technical field.

Experience: 1-2 years of experience or equivalent education in a technical field.

Required Skills:

Highly skilled in installing, repairing, and troubleshooting computer hardware and peripherals.
Well-versed in installing Windows, software, applications, antivirus, and patches.
Demonstrated ability to read and understand technical manuals and schematics.
Expertise in Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access).
Proficient in working with end-users remotely.
Demonstrated expertise in Microsoft Windows 7 and 10.
Familiar with Active Directory security and policies.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Outstanding communication skills to relate with team members and support workers.
Ability to drive a company vehicle and lift up to 50 lbs.
Available to work an 8-hour shift between 6 AM and 6 PM, as determined by management.

Preferred Skills:

Unexpired DoD 8570 Certification (Security+ preferred).
Experience with hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting in an enterprise environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, having experience with virtualization, server hardware, and network infrastructure would be beneficial for this role, as it may involve supporting servers and network devices.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Documented examples of hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting projects.
Case studies demonstrating problem-solving skills and user training efforts.
Evidence of experience with site surveys, engineering plans, and cable building.

Technical Documentation:

Detailed documentation of hardware installation processes, troubleshooting steps, and user training guides.
Examples of site surveys, engineering plans, and site installation test reports.

📝 Enhancement Note: As this role focuses on hardware support, a portfolio showcasing hands-on experience with various hardware components and troubleshooting scenarios would be most valuable.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $40,000 - $55,000 per year (based on regional market research for entry-level hardware technician roles in the Annapolis Junction, MD area).

Benefits:

Competitive benefits package (details not provided).
Opportunities for career growth and professional development.

Working Hours: Full-time position with an 8-hour shift between 6 AM and 6 PM, as determined by management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the salary range is an estimate based on market research, the actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's experience and skills. The company should provide a more detailed benefits package upon request.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Mission First Inc operates in the government services industry, focusing on information technology and mission support services.

Company Size: As a medium-sized company, Mission First Inc offers a supportive work environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Founded: Mission First Inc was founded in 2004, providing over 15 years of experience in the government services industry.

Team Structure:

The hardware support team consists of technicians responsible for on-site and remote hardware support, installation, and troubleshooting.
The team works closely with other IT departments, such as network and software support, to ensure optimal system performance and user satisfaction.

Development Methodology:

The hardware support team follows established processes for site surveys, hardware installation, and user training.
Technicians document their work and maintain up-to-date records of hardware configurations and user training sessions.

Company Website: Mission First Inc

📝 Enhancement Note: As a government services contractor, Mission First Inc prioritizes security clearance and compliance with government regulations. Candidates should be prepared to obtain and maintain an active TS/SCI with polygraph clearance.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Hardware Technician Career Level: This role is an entry-level position focusing on hands-on hardware support and installation. Technicians in this role gain valuable experience working with various hardware components and troubleshooting scenarios, setting the foundation for career growth in IT infrastructure and support.

Reporting Structure: Hardware Technicians report directly to the Hardware Support Manager, who oversees the team's activities and ensures optimal hardware performance across the organization.

Technical Impact: Hardware Technicians play a crucial role in maintaining the organization's IT infrastructure by ensuring hardware components function correctly and meet user needs. Their work directly impacts user satisfaction and overall system performance.

Growth Opportunities:

Hardware Support Specialist: After gaining experience in the Hardware Technician role, candidates may advance to a Hardware Support Specialist position, focusing on more complex hardware issues and mentoring junior technicians.
IT Infrastructure Specialist: With experience in hardware support and a strong understanding of IT infrastructure, candidates may transition to an IT Infrastructure Specialist role, focusing on server and network administration.
IT Project Manager: As candidates gain experience in IT infrastructure and support, they may pursue a career in IT project management, overseeing IT projects and ensuring they meet organizational objectives and user needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Career growth opportunities in this role depend on the candidate's experience, skills, and performance. The company may offer additional training and development opportunities to support career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Mission First Inc operates in a professional office environment, with dedicated spaces for hardware support, configuration, and troubleshooting activities.

Office Location(s): Annapolis Junction, MD, United States.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Workspace: The hardware support team works closely with other IT departments, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
Specialized Tools: Technicians have access to specialized tools and equipment for hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
Training Opportunities: The company offers training and development opportunities to help technicians enhance their skills and advance their careers.

Work Schedule: Full-time position with an 8-hour shift between 6 AM and 6 PM, as determined by management. Technicians may be required to work overtime or be on-call to address hardware emergencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a government services contractor, Mission First Inc prioritizes security and compliance with government regulations. Candidates should be prepared to work in a secure environment and adhere to strict security protocols.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen: A brief phone call to assess the candidate's communication skills and basic understanding of hardware support and installation processes.
Technical Assessment: A hands-on assessment of the candidate's hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting skills. This may include tasks such as building a computer, installing an operating system, and configuring hardware components.
Behavioral Interview: An in-depth discussion of the candidate's problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and teamwork experience.
Final Interview: A meeting with the Hardware Support Manager to discuss the candidate's fit within the team and the organization's goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight examples of hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting projects.
Include case studies demonstrating problem-solving skills and user training efforts.
Showcase experience with site surveys, engineering plans, and cable building.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting skills.
Familiarize yourself with the latest hardware components and trends in the industry.
Prepare for hands-on assessments by practicing hardware installation and configuration tasks.

ATS Keywords: (Organized by category)

Hardware: Installation, Configuration, Troubleshooting, Repair, Upgrade, Maintenance, Server, Desktop, Peripherals, Printers, Cables, Connectors, Components, Schematics, Technical Manuals.
Software: Windows, Operating Systems, Applications, Antivirus, Patches, Microsoft Office, Active Directory.
Skills: Analytical, Problem-Solving, Communication, Teamwork, Time Management, Prioritization, User Training, Documentation.
Industry: Government Services, Information Technology, Mission Support Services, Hardware Support, IT Infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role focuses on assessing the candidate's hands-on hardware support and installation skills, as well as their problem-solving abilities and communication skills. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their technical expertise through hands-on assessments and case studies.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Hardware Technologies:

Computer workstations and servers (desktop and laptop)
Printers and peripherals (scanners, monitors, keyboards, mice, etc.)
Communications devices (teleconferencing equipment, modems, routers, switches, etc.)
Specialized interconnecting cables and connectors

Software Technologies:

Microsoft Windows operating systems (7, 10)
Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)
Active Directory security and policies

Hardware Support Tools:

Technical manuals and schematics
Specialized hardware installation and configuration tools
Troubleshooting software and utilities

📝 Enhancement Note: As this role focuses on hardware support and installation, the technology stack primarily consists of hardware components and related software tools. Familiarity with these technologies is essential for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Hardware Support Values:

Customer Focus: Prioritize user needs and ensure hardware components meet their requirements.
Attention to Detail: Maintain a strong focus on hardware configuration, installation, and troubleshooting processes to minimize errors and maximize system performance.
Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date with the latest hardware components, trends, and best practices to enhance technical skills and improve user satisfaction.
Collaboration: Work closely with other IT departments and team members to ensure optimal hardware performance and user satisfaction.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Collaborate with other IT departments, such as network and software support, to ensure optimal system performance and user satisfaction.
Knowledge Sharing: Share technical expertise and best practices with team members to enhance overall hardware support and installation capabilities.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly review hardware support processes and identify opportunities for improvement to enhance user satisfaction and system performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hardware support team at Mission First Inc values collaboration, continuous learning, and a strong focus on user satisfaction. Candidates should be prepared to work closely with other team members and prioritize user needs in their hardware support and installation efforts.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Hardware Compatibility: Ensure hardware components are compatible with existing systems and meet user requirements.
Troubleshooting Complex Issues: Diagnose and resolve complex hardware issues, often working with limited information or remote users.
Keeping Up with Technology Trends: Stay up-to-date with the latest hardware components, trends, and best practices to enhance technical skills and improve user satisfaction.
Managing Multiple Projects: Balance multiple hardware support and installation projects, prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Hardware Support Training: Participate in hardware support and installation training programs to enhance technical skills and stay up-to-date with the latest hardware components and trends.
Certification Programs: Pursue relevant certifications, such as CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+, to demonstrate technical expertise and commitment to professional development.
Mentorship Opportunities: Seek mentorship from experienced hardware support technicians to gain insights into best practices, troubleshooting techniques, and career growth opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hardware support role at Mission First Inc presents various technical challenges and growth opportunities. Candidates should be prepared to tackle complex hardware issues, stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, and pursue continuous learning and development opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Hardware Installation: Describe your experience installing and configuring hardware components, such as computers, servers, and peripherals. Provide specific examples of hardware installation projects and the tools you used to complete them.
Troubleshooting: Walk through a complex hardware troubleshooting scenario you've encountered in the past. Explain your approach to diagnosing the issue, the steps you took to resolve it, and the outcome of your efforts.
User Training: Discuss your experience training users on hardware components and troubleshooting techniques. Provide specific examples of user training sessions and the impact they had on user satisfaction and system performance.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: Describe your understanding of Mission First Inc's company culture and how you would contribute to it as a Hardware Technician.
Team Dynamics: Explain how you would collaborate with other IT departments and team members to ensure optimal hardware performance and user satisfaction.
Adaptability: Describe a situation where you had to adapt to a significant change in your work environment or processes. How did you handle the change, and what was the outcome?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Hardware Installation Examples: Highlight examples of hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting projects in your portfolio. Include detailed descriptions of the hardware components used, the tools you employed, and the outcomes of your efforts.
Case Studies: Include case studies demonstrating your problem-solving skills, user training efforts, and the impact of your work on user satisfaction and system performance.
Certifications and Training: Highlight any relevant certifications or training programs you've completed, such as CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+, to demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role focuses on assessing the candidate's hands-on hardware support and installation skills, as well as their problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and cultural fit within the organization. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their technical expertise through hands-on assessments, case studies, and portfolio examples.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Hardware Technician (Tier 2 and Tier 3 Support) position at Mission First Inc:

Submit Your Application: Visit the Mission First Inc careers page and search for the Hardware Technician position. Click on the job title and follow the instructions to submit your application.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Highlight examples of hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting projects in your portfolio. Include detailed descriptions of the hardware components used, the tools you employed, and the outcomes of your efforts. Showcase your problem-solving skills, user training efforts, and the impact of your work on user satisfaction and system performance.
Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Mission First Inc's company culture, values, and mission. Understand the company's focus on government services and information technology, and how the hardware support role contributes to its success.
Prepare for the Interview: Review the interview process and technical challenge preparation tips outlined in this enhanced job description. Brush up on your hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting skills, and prepare for hands-on assessments and case studies.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions about hardware support and installation roles. All details should be verified directly with Mission First Inc before making application decisions.

Hardware Technician (Tier 2 and Tier 3 Support)