Hardware Engineer I - Tier 2 Deskside / Systems Technician

Join Robert Half's premier IT support team as a Hardware Engineer I (Tier 2 Deskside / Systems Technician) in Houston, Maryland. This 26-week contract position, with strong potential for extension, offers hands-on experience in a 24/7/365 high-availability environment supporting critical operations across Rockville, MD and Bluemont, VA sites. Ideal for skilled IT professionals seeking to advance in deskside support, systems administration, and hardware deployment while working onsite in a collaborative, mission-critical setting.

About the Role

As a Hardware Engineer I, you will serve as the frontline Tier 2 support specialist, delivering expert deskside engineering, break/fix services, and operational IT assistance. This role demands strong technical acumen, customer service excellence, and the ability to thrive under pressure in a fast-paced environment. You'll support end-users with desktop, laptop, and mobile device issues, deploy Windows-configured hardware, and maintain system integrity during routine operations and emergency DR/COOP exercises. With Robert Half, gain exposure to advanced virtualization, redundancy practices, and ServiceNow ITSM while building a robust career in federal IT support. Perfect for those pursuing Public Trust Clearance and long-term government contracting opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

Deskside & Operational Support

• Act as primary onsite contact for 24/7 deskside support on desktops, laptops, thin clients, and mobile devices, including physical lifting and equipment handling.
• Perform non-disruptive deployments of Windows 10/11 configured hardware using industry-standard tools.
• Leverage MS Office Suite, ServiceNow, and deployment technologies to resolve issues efficiently.
• Collaborate with Tier 3 teams on system changes, upgrades, and escalations.
• Deliver IT support during practice, mock, and live DR/COOP exercises at dual sites.
• Maintain clear communication with end-users and teams, providing status updates under tight deadlines.
• Handle occasional travel between Rockville, MD and Mount Weather (Bluemont, VA).

Systems Support & Administration

• Uphold high-availability environments through virtualization, redundancy, and best practices.
• Offer technical guidance to Tier 2/3 teams and perform maintenance like upgrades, backups, and recoveries.
• Conduct weekly critical update reviews and ad-hoc checks during security threats or exercises.
• Provide on-call support for Production Operating Environment (POE) incidents.
• Troubleshoot complex hardware/software problems and log all activities in ServiceNow to meet SLA standards.
• Escalate unresolved issues to leadership promptly.

Hardware Deployment & Asset Management

• Configure, deploy, and support IT assets including laptops, desktops, thin clients, and peripherals.
• Oversee full asset lifecycle: procurement, deployment, maintenance, and secure disposal.
• Execute onsite/offsite asset control and provide hands-on network/systems assistance at headquarters.

Required Qualifications

To excel in this Hardware Engineer I role, candidates must possess:

• Public Trust Security Clearance: Required prior to start date.
• Proven Tier 2 deskside and systems administration experience in 24/7 environments.
• Expertise in Windows 10/11 deployment, hardware troubleshooting, and virtualization.
• Proficiency with ServiceNow ITSM, MS Office Suite, and related tools.
• Strong problem-solving, time management, and communication skills.
• Physical capability to lift/move equipment and availability for on-call/24/7 shifts.
• Willingness to travel locally between MD/VA sites.
• Degree in IT, Computer Science, or equivalent experience preferred.

Why Join Us at Robert Half?

Robert Half offers unparalleled opportunities in IT staffing, connecting top talent with rewarding contracts like this Hardware Engineer I position. Benefit from our industry-leading support, career coaching, and access to high-profile federal projects. Develop in-demand skills in deskside support, asset management, and high-availability systems while enjoying competitive pay, potential extensions, and a collaborative culture. With SEO-optimized job matching, advance your career in Houston, MD's thriving tech scene. Apply now for this Tier 2 Systems Technician role and elevate your IT expertise with Robert Half! (748 words)