STEM OPT Help Desk Technician Jobs
Help Desk Technician roles qualify for STEM OPT when your degree maps to an eligible CIP code in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and the 24-month extension gives you up to 36 months total to build U.S. work experience while transitioning toward long-term sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
We are only considering local candidates who can accommodate our hybrid schedule in the Agoura Hills office. Our hybrid schedule is as follows: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday in the Agoura Hills office, Wednesday and Friday are remote workdays.
DUTIES
Perform duties and responsibilities including, but not limited to:
Help Desk Responsibilities:
- Provide direct support for onsite and remote employees across multiple platforms and devices
- Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot computer systems, peripherals, and mobile devices
- Manage user accounts, email services, and identity access, including MFA troubleshooting and password resets
- Configure and support cloud services and SaaS applications such as Microsoft 365, Teams, Zoom, and other collaboration tools
- Assist with web-related tasks
- Track and monitor software usage, licensing, and compliance with organizational policies
- Troubleshoot remote access and mobile device connectivity issues
- Manage telephone systems and provide support for general telecommunications needs
- Support printing services
- Support audio visual needs
- Create and maintain documentation, knowledge base articles, and self-service resources for common issues
- Identify and escalate complex issues to Tier 2 support as required
Other Responsibilities:
- Multitask and prioritize assignments effectively to meet varied deadlines
- Conduct technical research to support troubleshooting and process improvements
- Stay current with industry standards, emerging technologies, and best practices through continuous learning
- Collaborate on special projects and initiatives as needed to support departmental and organizational goals
- Perform other duties and projects as assigned by the IT Support Manager to ensure alignment with departmental objectives and organizational needs
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must possess a vibrant personal relationship with Jesus Christ and agree with the Joni and Friends statement of faith
- Desire to serve in a growing and dynamic Christian service ministry
- Must possess the ability to effectively organize and prioritize a wide range of daily tasks with varied deadlines
- Must be reliable, cooperative, flexible, and exhibit enthusiasm and initiative
- Must be capable of working well in a team environment exercising professionalism and respect in interactions with co-workers and people served by the ministry
- Prior Help Desk experience combined with an Associate’s degree and one or more of the following certifications: A+, NET+, MTA (with emphasis on IT Infrastructure) is preferred
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications as well as Windows and Mac Operating Systems
- Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 administration fundamentals
- A solid understanding of LAN/WAN concepts to include TCP/IP and wireless protocols
- An understanding of basic VOIP telecommunications and mobile device configuration
- The ability to effectively install and/or upgrade computer systems, learn new software programs, train others to use programs, and coordinate multiple projects simultaneously
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and physically execute hardware installation or instruct someone to effectively perform such tasks
- Must support a flexible schedule as some evening and weekend hours may be required. Typical schedule is 8:00am - 5:00pm M-F to support operating hours of remote employees/offices
- Occasional travel may be necessary
- Good interpersonal communication skills both verbal and written and the ability to effectively organize and prioritize a wide range of daily tasks with varied deadlines are necessary
- Must be detail oriented, committed to accuracy, a team player and self-starter who is flexible and able to work independently
- Must have a strong sense of confidentiality
- Strong general computer skills are necessary along with a competent, working knowledge of Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Microsoft Office, and the Microsoft 365 suite
- Understanding of Christian ministry, including Joni and Friends’ mission and purpose
Physical Requirements
This position primarily involves sedentary work in an office setting. The employee must be able to sit for extended periods, operate a computer and other standard office equipment, communicate clearly in person and over the phone, and occasionally stand, walk, bend, kneel or reach to access files and supplies or move items. The role may also require occasionally lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling items and equipment up to 25 pounds.
Work is performed in a professional office setting with occasional movement throughout the facility. The environment is typically quiet to moderate in noise level, with standard lighting and temperature conditions. Employees are expected to maintain safety and ergonomic awareness while performing all tasks.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
COMPENSATION
- Compensation: $25.50 - $28.50 per hour
EMPLOYEE MINISTRY ENGAGEMENT
Joni and Friends is a Christ-centered community. Therefore, we expect every employee at Joni and Friends to excel in their walk with Christ and in their specific employment role in our Christian community. We purposely create a gospel-centered environment and offer leadership and development training to help employees perform their work with integrity and excellence, serving in our Christian community at Joni and Friends to fulfill our religious ministry: to share the gospel and serve people living with disabilities.
All employees do this, regardless of their specific role, by:
- Modeling Joni and Friends’ Christian beliefs and practices to advance our gospel mission during working hours and nonworking hours
- Supporting fellow staff and volunteers at Joni and Friends in following Christ, by praying for each other, sharing Scripture and setting an example of how to live a faithful Christian life
- Engaging in the lives of people living with disabilities with love, dignity, and in a manner that commends and proclaims the gospel
- Participating or leading in prayer and worship during meetings, events, and outreaches
- Affirming the Joni and Friends Statement of Faith annually and not engaging in any conduct or promoting any religious beliefs inconsistent with such beliefs
- Upholding and advancing Joni and Friends’ Mission and Vision through a focus on our Values
- Actively attending a church that has a statement of faith that does not contradict Joni and Friends’ Statement of Faith
Joni and Friends seeks to glorify God in the way we conduct ourselves, and in the work we do together as a Christian community. Employment at Joni and Friends is not only a job but a ministry and a calling from God.
INTRODUCTION
We are only considering local candidates who can accommodate our hybrid schedule in the Agoura Hills office. Our hybrid schedule is as follows: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday in the Agoura Hills office, Wednesday and Friday are remote workdays.
DUTIES
Perform duties and responsibilities including, but not limited to:
Help Desk Responsibilities:
- Provide direct support for onsite and remote employees across multiple platforms and devices
- Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot computer systems, peripherals, and mobile devices
- Manage user accounts, email services, and identity access, including MFA troubleshooting and password resets
- Configure and support cloud services and SaaS applications such as Microsoft 365, Teams, Zoom, and other collaboration tools
- Assist with web-related tasks
- Track and monitor software usage, licensing, and compliance with organizational policies
- Troubleshoot remote access and mobile device connectivity issues
- Manage telephone systems and provide support for general telecommunications needs
- Support printing services
- Support audio visual needs
- Create and maintain documentation, knowledge base articles, and self-service resources for common issues
- Identify and escalate complex issues to Tier 2 support as required
Other Responsibilities:
- Multitask and prioritize assignments effectively to meet varied deadlines
- Conduct technical research to support troubleshooting and process improvements
- Stay current with industry standards, emerging technologies, and best practices through continuous learning
- Collaborate on special projects and initiatives as needed to support departmental and organizational goals
- Perform other duties and projects as assigned by the IT Support Manager to ensure alignment with departmental objectives and organizational needs
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must possess a vibrant personal relationship with Jesus Christ and agree with the Joni and Friends statement of faith
- Desire to serve in a growing and dynamic Christian service ministry
- Must possess the ability to effectively organize and prioritize a wide range of daily tasks with varied deadlines
- Must be reliable, cooperative, flexible, and exhibit enthusiasm and initiative
- Must be capable of working well in a team environment exercising professionalism and respect in interactions with co-workers and people served by the ministry
- Prior Help Desk experience combined with an Associate’s degree and one or more of the following certifications: A+, NET+, MTA (with emphasis on IT Infrastructure) is preferred
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications as well as Windows and Mac Operating Systems
- Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 administration fundamentals
- A solid understanding of LAN/WAN concepts to include TCP/IP and wireless protocols
- An understanding of basic VOIP telecommunications and mobile device configuration
- The ability to effectively install and/or upgrade computer systems, learn new software programs, train others to use programs, and coordinate multiple projects simultaneously
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and physically execute hardware installation or instruct someone to effectively perform such tasks
- Must support a flexible schedule as some evening and weekend hours may be required. Typical schedule is 8:00am - 5:00pm M-F to support operating hours of remote employees/offices
- Occasional travel may be necessary
- Good interpersonal communication skills both verbal and written and the ability to effectively organize and prioritize a wide range of daily tasks with varied deadlines are necessary
- Must be detail oriented, committed to accuracy, a team player and self-starter who is flexible and able to work independently
- Must have a strong sense of confidentiality
- Strong general computer skills are necessary along with a competent, working knowledge of Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Microsoft Office, and the Microsoft 365 suite
- Understanding of Christian ministry, including Joni and Friends’ mission and purpose
Physical Requirements
This position primarily involves sedentary work in an office setting. The employee must be able to sit for extended periods, operate a computer and other standard office equipment, communicate clearly in person and over the phone, and occasionally stand, walk, bend, kneel or reach to access files and supplies or move items. The role may also require occasionally lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling items and equipment up to 25 pounds.
Work is performed in a professional office setting with occasional movement throughout the facility. The environment is typically quiet to moderate in noise level, with standard lighting and temperature conditions. Employees are expected to maintain safety and ergonomic awareness while performing all tasks.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
COMPENSATION
- Compensation: $25.50 - $28.50 per hour
EMPLOYEE MINISTRY ENGAGEMENT
Joni and Friends is a Christ-centered community. Therefore, we expect every employee at Joni and Friends to excel in their walk with Christ and in their specific employment role in our Christian community. We purposely create a gospel-centered environment and offer leadership and development training to help employees perform their work with integrity and excellence, serving in our Christian community at Joni and Friends to fulfill our religious ministry: to share the gospel and serve people living with disabilities.
All employees do this, regardless of their specific role, by:
- Modeling Joni and Friends’ Christian beliefs and practices to advance our gospel mission during working hours and nonworking hours
- Supporting fellow staff and volunteers at Joni and Friends in following Christ, by praying for each other, sharing Scripture and setting an example of how to live a faithful Christian life
- Engaging in the lives of people living with disabilities with love, dignity, and in a manner that commends and proclaims the gospel
- Participating or leading in prayer and worship during meetings, events, and outreaches
- Affirming the Joni and Friends Statement of Faith annually and not engaging in any conduct or promoting any religious beliefs inconsistent with such beliefs
- Upholding and advancing Joni and Friends’ Mission and Vision through a focus on our Values
- Actively attending a church that has a statement of faith that does not contradict Joni and Friends’ Statement of Faith
Joni and Friends seeks to glorify God in the way we conduct ourselves, and in the work we do together as a Christian community. Employment at Joni and Friends is not only a job but a ministry and a calling from God.
See all STEM OPT Help Desk Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new STEM OPT Help Desk Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a Help Desk Technician
Verify your CIP code before applying
Check that your STEM degree's CIP code appears on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. Information technology and computer science codes commonly support Help Desk roles, but applied vs. pure science distinctions can trip up eligibility at the DSO review stage.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before accepting offers
Ask hiring managers directly whether the company is enrolled in E-Verify before you accept. STEM OPT requires it, and many smaller IT support shops or managed service providers are not enrolled, which disqualifies the placement regardless of how well the role fits your training plan.
Target employers with IT infrastructure teams
Help Desk roles at companies running internal IT departments are far more likely to file I-983 training plans than staffing agencies placing contractors. Search Migrate Mate to find employers with active STEM OPT and E-Verify compliance already in place for technical support positions.
Draft your I-983 around measurable learning objectives
Your training plan must connect daily help desk duties to STEM-field learning goals. Map ticket resolution workflows, system administration tasks, and troubleshooting protocols to specific technical competencies. Generic job descriptions get returned for revision by DSOs and delay your OPT start date.
Use O*NET to align your job title to STEM criteria
Pull the Help Desk Technician occupation profile from O*NET to confirm the role's technology and science task descriptions match your degree field. Employers sometimes title roles loosely, and the O*NET profile gives you sourced language to use when your DSO questions whether the position qualifies.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship timelines during interviews
STEM OPT gives you up to 36 months, but H-1B visa registration opens in March each year for an October 1 start. Ask whether the employer has sponsored H-1B petitions for IT support staff before, so you can plan around the cap-gap window without losing continuous work authorization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Help Desk Technician role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree's CIP code, not just the job title. If your degree is in computer science, information systems, or a related STEM field listed on the DHS Designated Degree Program List, and the Help Desk role involves applying that technical knowledge, your DSO can approve the STEM OPT extension. Roles that are purely administrative without a technical component may not qualify.
Does my Help Desk Technician employer need to be enrolled in E-Verify?
Yes. E-Verify enrollment is a hard requirement for STEM OPT, not a preference. Before signing an offer, ask the hiring manager or HR to confirm the company's E-Verify employer ID. If they can't provide it or say they'll enroll later, your DSO cannot approve the I-983 and your extension will be blocked. Use Migrate Mate to find Help Desk roles already filtered to E-Verify-enrolled employers.
What goes into the I-983 training plan for a Help Desk Technician?
The I-983 requires your employer to describe specific training goals tied to your STEM degree field, not just a job description. For Help Desk roles, that means documenting how ticket management systems, network troubleshooting, hardware diagnostics, or endpoint security work connect to your degree's technical competencies. Vague plans get rejected by DSOs. Your employer must also sign off that they have the capacity to provide that training.
What happens to my STEM OPT if my Help Desk Technician employer loses E-Verify status?
If your employer's E-Verify participation is terminated during your STEM OPT period, you lose authorization to continue working for them and must notify your DSO within five business days. USCIS requires you to either transfer to a new E-Verify-enrolled employer or face a gap in valid work authorization. This is why confirming active enrollment before accepting an offer matters, not just at hiring.
Can I use cap-gap to keep working as a Help Desk Technician while my H-1B is pending?
Yes, if your H-1B petition is filed before your STEM OPT EAD expires, cap-gap automatically extends your work authorization through September 30 of the fiscal year your H-1B is set to start. You can continue working in your Help Desk role without interruption, but your employer must have filed the H-1B petition on time. Check the USCIS cap-gap guidance to confirm your EAD extension is reflected correctly on your I-20.