Entry Level It Analyst

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Entry Level IT Analyst at Harris & Harris — Research Report

Introduction

The Entry Level IT Analyst role at Harris & Harris offers recent grads and interns a direct path into IT support within a dynamic Chicago-based firm. With an open application deadline, now is the prime time to apply and kickstart your tech career in a supportive environment. This position stands out for its hands-on projects that build real skills, often leading to full-time offers and rapid career growth in IT infrastructure.

Overview of Harris & Harris

Harris & Harris is a prominent Chicago law firm specializing in complex litigation, intellectual property, and corporate transactions for mid-market clients across the Midwest. Founded over 40 years ago, it competes with regional players like Kirkland & Ellis and Foley & Lardner but carves a niche in agile, client-focused legal tech integration.

The firm provides core services including litigation support, IP protection, mergers and acquisitions advisory, and innovative e-discovery solutions powered by custom IT systems. Its market presence has grown steadily, with recent expansions into data analytics for legal cases, boasting a 15% annual revenue increase amid rising demand for tech-savvy law practices.

Harris & Harris fosters a collaborative culture in its modern Chicago office, emphasizing work-life balance with hybrid options and mentorship programs. Employees rave about the firm's reputation for promoting from within—over 60% of partners started as associates—and its commitment to professional development. People flock here for the blend of prestigious legal work and cutting-edge IT tools that make lawyers more efficient.

Entry Level IT Analyst Role

Role Overview

As an Entry Level IT Analyst, you'll support the firm's technology backbone, troubleshooting systems that power case management and client data security. Your work directly impacts attorneys' productivity, enabling faster case resolutions and secure document handling for high-stakes litigation. This role is ideal for building expertise in legal IT, where your contributions help the firm stay ahead in a competitive field.

Detailed Responsibilities

• Monitor and maintain network infrastructure, including servers and cloud-based legal databases.
• Troubleshoot hardware/software issues for 200+ users, from laptops to printers.
• Assist in cybersecurity protocols, running vulnerability scans and updating firewalls.
• Support e-discovery tools like Relativity for document review in litigation cases.
• Document IT processes and create user guides for non-technical staff.
• Collaborate with vendors for software licenses and hardware upgrades.
• Analyze system performance metrics to recommend efficiency improvements.

Day-to-Day Workflow

Your day starts with checking the IT helpdesk ticketing system, prioritizing urgent attorney requests like VPN access for remote depositions. Mornings often involve hands-on fixes, such as reimaging laptops or resolving Outlook sync issues, followed by team huddles to review ongoing projects. Afternoons shift to proactive tasks like patching systems or testing new tools, wrapping up with documentation and planning for the next day.

Expect variety— one hour fixing a printer jam, the next scripting automation for file backups. The workflow emphasizes quick response times, with most tickets resolved under two hours to minimize disruptions during court deadlines.

Tools and Technologies

Harris & Harris relies on a robust tech stack tailored to legal needs: Microsoft Azure for cloud infrastructure, Active Directory for user management, and ServiceNow for ticketing. You'll use Relativity and iManage for document management, alongside standard tools like Windows Server, SQL databases, and PowerShell scripting. Familiarity with cybersecurity platforms like CrowdStrike and Wireshark gives you an edge in this environment.

Skills and Requirements

Technical Skills

Candidates need solid basics in networking (TCP/IP, LAN/WAN), Windows OS administration, and basic scripting in PowerShell or Python. Knowledge of cybersecurity fundamentals, such as firewalls and endpoint protection, is crucial for handling sensitive legal data. Experience with helpdesk tools like Zendesk or cloud platforms like Azure rounds out the profile.

Soft Skills

Strong problem-solving under pressure is key, as IT issues often arise during tight litigation deadlines. Excellent communication helps explain tech fixes to non-technical lawyers clearly. Teamwork shines in cross-departmental projects, where you'll collaborate with paralegals and partners alike.

Experience Expectations

No prior professional experience is required, but a relevant bachelor's in IT, computer science, or related field is expected, with a GPA above 3.2 preferred. Highlight personal projects like home lab setups or GitHub repos on resume. Internships or campus IT roles count heavily, proving you can handle real-world tickets.

Salary and Benefits

For an Entry Level IT Analyst in Chicago, expect $55,000–$65,000 annually, competitive for legal firms with built-in bonuses up to 10% based on performance. Interns receive stipends around $25–$30 per hour for summer or part-time roles. Benefits include hybrid work (3 days in-office), full health coverage, 401(k) matching, and a $2,000 annual learning budget for certifications like CompTIA A+ or Security+.

Full-time conversion is common—70% of strong performers transition post-internship, with clear promotion paths to senior analyst within two years.

Harris & Harris Hiring Process

Step-by-Step Hiring Stages

1. Application: Submit resume, cover letter, and transcript via their careers portal.
2. Screening: HR reviews for keywords like "networking" and "helpdesk"; phone call with recruiter.
3. Assignment: Complete a 2-hour technical task, like simulating a ticket resolution.
4. Interviews: Two rounds—technical with IT manager, behavioral with team lead.
5. Offer: Verbal offer within a week, followed by formal letter and background check.

Application Timeline

With an open deadline, apply anytime, but aim for fall for summer internships or spring for full-time starts. The process typically spans 3–5 weeks: one week for screening, two for interviews/assignment, and one for offers. Early applications get priority during peak hiring in Q1 and Q3.

Screening Methods

Their ATS scans for keywords like "IT support," "Azure," and "cybersecurity." Tailor your resume with quantifiable achievements, such as "Resolved 150+ tickets in campus role." No portfolio required, but linking to a GitHub with scripts impresses.

Interview Preparation

Example Interview Questions

• "Walk us through troubleshooting a lawyer's email not syncing on their laptop."
• "How would you handle a phishing attempt detected in the firm?"
• "Describe a time you automated a repetitive IT task."
• "What steps do you take to secure client data in a shared network?"

How to Answer

Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. For the email sync question, set the scene (user can't access inbox), explain your diagnostic steps (check Outlook settings, server status), actions (reset profile, test connectivity), and result (resolved in 20 minutes, preventing deadline miss). Practice aloud to sound natural and concise.

What Recruiters Evaluate

They prioritize technical aptitude (60% weight), shown via assignment performance, and cultural fit (40%), like enthusiasm for legal tech. Metrics include problem-solving speed and communication clarity. Bonus for initiative, such as suggesting improvements during interviews.

How to Get Selected

Practical Tips

• Customize your cover letter mentioning a specific Harris & Harris case from their site to show research.
• Quantify resume bullets: "Managed 50-user network" beats vague descriptions.
• Prepare for the assignment by practicing on free tools like VirtualBox for simulated networks.
• Follow up post-interview with a thank-you email recapping a key discussion point.
• Get CompTIA A+ certified beforehand—it's a frequent talking point.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Generic resumes that don't reference legal IT or Chicago market specifics.
• Ignoring soft skills; rambling answers without STAR structure tank behavioral rounds.
• Missing deadlines on assignments—punctuality signals reliability.
• Overlooking hybrid readiness; test your home setup for video interviews.

How to Stand Out

Build a simple portfolio site showcasing IT projects, like a PowerShell script for backups, and share the link. Network via LinkedIn with current employees—mention mutual connections in your app. Propose a "value-add" idea in interviews, such as integrating AI chatbots for basic helpdesk queries, tailored to their e-discovery focus.

Final Thoughts

Landing the Entry Level IT Analyst role at Harris & Harris could be your launchpad into a thriving legal tech career, blending IT prowess with high-impact work. Don't wait on the open application—polish your materials and apply today to join a firm that invests in its talent. Your initiative now pays off in skills and networks that last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the salary for Entry Level IT Analyst at Harris & Harris?

A: Full-time starts at $55,000–$65,000, with intern stipends of $25–$30/hour, plus bonuses and benefits.

Q: How competitive is it to get hired at Harris & Harris?

A: Moderately competitive—about 10–15 applicants per spot, favoring those with certifications and tailored apps.

Q: What skills are most important for this role?

A: Networking basics, troubleshooting, PowerShell scripting, and clear communication top the list.

Application Tips

• • Reference specific company initiatives mentioned in the research
• • Align your experience with the role requirements
• • Prepare questions that show you've done your homework
• • Practice explaining how you can contribute to their goals

Interview Preparation

• • Study the company culture and values
• • Understand the industry challenges and opportunities
• • Prepare examples that demonstrate relevant skills
• • Research recent company news and developments