Desktop Support Analyst

** Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future** The Deskside Support Analyst is a customer-facing technical professional responsible for providing onsite and remote support to end users, ensuring timely resolution of hardware, software, and infrastructure-related issues. This role plays a critical part in maintaining operational efficiency, user productivity, and service excellence by diagnosing technical problems, performing repairs, and supporting IT infrastructure in a fast-paced corporate environment. The analyst will also contribute to deployments, asset lifecycle management, and VIP support , while adhering to ITIL best practices.

Salary and Other Compensation: The annual salary for this position is between $63,000 to $70,000 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate. This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans. In this role, you will

Provide Level 2 deskside support for complex hardware, software, and infrastructure issues affecting desktops, laptops, mobile, and virtual environments.

Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues by analyzing symptoms, identifying root causes, and implementing effective solutions, including physical layer, login, and application-related problems.

Perform installation, configuration, and repair of hardware and software, including component replacements, software reinstalls, and system setup validation.

Utilize remote access tools and diagnostic utilities to investigate and resolve user issues efficiently while minimizing downtime.

Lead and execute deployment activities, including software releases, system upgrades, patches, and enterprise-wide rollouts on end-user devices.

Manage Active Directory and access-related tasks, including user account provisioning, permissions, and identity troubleshooting.

Provide Hands & Feet support for IT infrastructure, including servers, storage, backup systems, network devices, and IPT endpoints.

Oversee asset lifecycle management, including procurement, inventory tracking, compliance, and proper configuration of end-user devices.

Support infrastructure and workplace initiatives such as customer relocations, departmental IT setup, and environment build-outs.

Deliver exceptional customer service, including support for Tier 1 VIP users, maintaining professional client interactions, meeting SLAs, and adhering to business professional standards while contributing to continuous improvement and ITIL-aligned practices.

Do you have experience in Windows?, * 3-5 years of experience providing deskside/end-user support in a corporate environment

• Strong technical knowledge of:

o Desktop operating systems (Windows 7, Windows 10+) o Hardware troubleshooting and repair o Software installation and configuration

• Proficiency in troubleshooting:

o Hardware and software issues o Network and connectivity problems

• Familiarity with:

o Remote support tools o Active Directory and directory services

• Experience supporting:

o Server, storage, backup systems o Network devices and IPT endpoints

• Knowledge of virtual desktop environments (VDI)
• Basic understanding of ITIL processes and service management frameworks
• Experience with asset management and device lifecycle processes
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet SLAs in a high-pressure environment
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Preferred Skills

• Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, and face-to-face)
• Strong customer service orientation and problem-solving mindset
• Ability to work collaboratively in onsite-offshore and client-vendor environments
• Self-driven with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong prioritization, coordination, and time-management skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment
• High level of professionalism, including adherence to business professional dress standards

Pulled from the full job description

• Paid parental leave
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Parental leave
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance, Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off 401(k) plan and contributions Long-term/Short-term Disability Paid Parental Leave Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Work model: At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring 5 days a week at a client location in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you’re engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations. We’re excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don’t hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role. Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law. “Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.