Operating Systems Analyst

This position maintains Linux and UNIX operating systems, applications, and related products, with a focus on high performance computing (HPC) and other research needs. Tasks include: Supporting the day-to-day operations of HPC clusters and the researchers who use them; Supporting Linux desktops, laptops, servers, and VMs and their users; Installing, configuring, and updating operating systems and other software to meet operational and security requirements; Managing users and files, including account creation, file permissions modifications, and data backup and restoration; Troubleshooting desktop, laptop, and server hardware, software, and networking issues; Managing support requests through a centralized ticketing system; Consulting directly with researchers to diagnose and resolve technical issues impacting their workflows; Requesting support, changes, exceptions, etc. from other internal departments; Reporting issues to vendor technical support and working with them to resolve those issues; Managing orders and RMAs and handling shipments; Providing after-hours support as necessary during emergency situations.

A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems, including coursework in operating systems and systems administration, or equivalent experience (at least one year of managing Linux systems preferred)

Demonstrated knowledge of Linux and UNIX operating systems, applications, and networking, and the ability to diagnose and resolve problems in these areas

Experience with macOS and Windows systems, especially using and troubleshooting internal and external hardware and connecting systems to Linux servers, clusters, and other research systems

Demonstrated technical proficiency in one or more computer languages such as Bash, Python, AWK, C, C++, Fortran, Java, JavaScript, Lua, Perl, R, Ruby, and SQL

Ability to lift and transport heavy (50+ lb) equipment and work carefully with delicate pieces

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to complete tasks independently and autonomously, and with effective priority management

Ability to think critically and creatively to solve problems and develop novel solutions

Ability to collaborate in team settings

Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting academic, scientific, and research computing environments

Experience managing enterprise Linux systems

Experience with Btrfs, Lustre, LVM, XFS, ZFS, and other file systems and technologies used for high performance, desktop, and server storage

Experience with LUKS, systemd-cryptenroll, and TPM-based disk encryption mechanisms

Experience with InfiniBand or other high performance networking technologies

Experience with OpenVox/Puppet for configuration management

Experience with QEMU/KVM/libvirt, Docker, and other virtualization technologies

Experience developing, testing, and maintaining code using Git and other standard tools

Experience provisioning and managing basic web and database servers

Experience with rackmount equipment and knowledge of data center infrastructure

Salary Range: $75,000-$96,000

Benefits: All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

Hours per Week: 40