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Volunteering > Volunteer for the Students' Union > Union Computers Desktop Engineer  

Volunteering

Volunteering is an enjoyable way for you to make a difference, provides a fantastic opportunity for you to develop key skills for your future career and to check out possible career paths. On top of that it’s a great way to make new friends, to do something different from your studies and to get a different perspective of life.

We offer you the opportunity to volunteer in a wide variety of locally based organisations and community projects as well as for the Students' Union.

There are lots of options to choose from and we will help you find the volunteering placement that is right for you so contact us for more information.

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► Union Computers Desktop Engineer

Union Computers is a new, not-for-profit venture set up by the Students’ Union. It is run and lead by student volunteers, who have developed the venture into a fully functioning computer and laptop repair service for students.

Union Computers Engineer

About the role

The purpose of the role is to install, maintain and upgrade desktop hardware (including peripherals) and software across a variety of operating systems and to accurately identify, diagnose and solve a wide variety of software and hardware related problems. This will include various peripherals, (networking/imaging/storage) and working within both PC and MAC platforms. You will also provide an informed, professional and friendly support servce for students and staff. The Union Computers team are supported by the IT & Web Manager.

Time commitment

Term-time only 4 hours per week (between 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday) plus a volunteer team meeting each term and three individual support sessions with the IT & Web Manager per term.

Main tasks and responsibilities

  • To install and test new peripherals
  • To follow manufacturer’s instructions to support the use of hardware, such as installing drivers
  • To perform basic PC hardware repairs and upgrades
  • To diagnose and resolve basic PC, printer, peripheral and software faults
  • To install complete applications and set software options, such as default directory
  • To carry out any required maintenance of applications, (e.g. install service packs)
  • To discriminate between incidents and problems
  • To be able to search various online knowledgebase/logs of support related jobs to inform diagnosis and resolution
  • To record detailed diagnostic information
  • To determine what type of solution is necessary and where appropriate, contact the IT & Web Manager
  • To understand when a quick fix is not sufficient to permanently resolve a problem
  • To help with special projects within Union Computers

This role would suit you if you are

  • Experienced at an intermediate level in handling, diagnosing and problem-solving hardware and software related issues
  • Can remove and fit new components within a desktop setup
  • Has a basic understanding of BIOS (incl settings), installation of various operating systems and application of RAID configuration.
  • Interested in developing IT Support skills across a variety of platforms
  • Interested in working on a variety of Union projects, (e.g Web Development & Object-Orientated Programming)
  • Interested in developing interpersonal, organisational and administration skills
  • Looking to get involved in an exciting venture! 

Benefits of this role

  • Customer service skills training
  • Confidentiality and Data Protection training 
  • Using Content Management Systems for project management
  • Computer diagnosis, custom-builds & parts handling training 
  • The application of and using various operating systems
  • Best practice within a support role

Volunteers will also gain experience of working in a fast paced working environment, full references for your CV and a certificate for completed volunteering hours

Further information

Union Computers is open during term time, Mondays – Fridays, 10am – 4pm

The minimum time commitment for this role is 4 hours per week over 2 hour shifts. You would be welcome to do more shifts if you wish! Since this is a new venture, your ideas and input will be invaluable!

Interested? Please contact us for more information