Research Infrastructure Specialist

The Center for Research Computing (CRC) at Rice University enables faculty and researchers to effectively use on- and off-premise (1) shared high-performance computing, (2) VM and cloud computing, (3) data storage infrastructure, and (4) broader IT services to accelerate and advance world-class research and scholarship across the University. We are currently looking to expand our team of professionals with a Research Infrastructure Specialist who can help the CRC (1) support, develop, and manage existing Linux-based core infrastructure that supports centrally managed research environments, and (2) evaluate, deploy, develop, and operate new infrastructure to more effectively bridge Center services, extend research cyberinfrastructure, and provide best-in-class support to our research community. This is a fantastic opportunity for a self-motivated team member to engage in a positive and creative work environment that offers the candidate the opportunity to grow and contribute to accelerating the research mission of Rice University.

Reporting to the CRC Co-Director, the ideal candidate has excellent judgment and communication skills, brings adaptability and integrity to the Linux-based infrastructure team, and utilizes best practices to improve system usability, management, and documentation.

This position is open only to individuals authorized to work in the U.S. without employer sponsorship, now or in the future. We are unable to provide sponsorship for candidates interested in this position.

Working Requirements

This is an on-campus position with the potential for a flexible work schedule in the future. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position, and the salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. *Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
  In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted
• 2+ years of experience in software projects and middleware management, including experience gained while in school
  In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted

Skills:

• Familiarity with the principles and practice of system configuration management and networked/distributed computing environments
• Substantive experience with Linux operating systems is required; other OS experience is welcome
• Technical skills, including but not limited to Linux systems analysis, VM administration, containerization, cloud infrastructure, and storage technology administration
• Demonstrated ability with programming or scripting in SQL, Bash, Ansible, Python, and PHP
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work independently and in team settings, set priorities, and meet deadlines consistently
• Ability to explain applications and operating system fundamentals to others
• Excellent judgment, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to establish effective, ongoing relationships with colleagues and management

Preferred Skills/Experience

• Master's degree in a related field
• 2+ years of experience in managing and supporting research computing infrastructure operations
• 3 years of experience supporting Linux infrastructure related to middleware development

Essential Functions

• Develops information systems based on scope and objectives
• Monitors, tunes, and troubleshoots applications
• Participates in testing, debugging, configuring, and documenting applications and software
• Tests and implements complex software services; provides technical support and resolves systems and application problems
• Ensures data/media recovery by implementing a schedule of system backups and database archive operations
• Provides routine consultation and research computing support within the Center
• Documents and assists other technical staff as needed on production support issues, resolution, and application/utility software development and maintenance
• Provides insight and recommendations to stakeholders around potential process changes or solutions
• Develops documentation of systems and use cases, including use cases and workflow diagrams as needed
• Performs other duties as assigned

Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants should attach a resume and cover letter in PDF format to the Supporting Documents section of the application.