Academic Computing Specialist

University of Maine System • Portland, ME

1d • $53,000 - $57,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The University of Maine System (UMS) is seeking an Academic Computing Specialist to join our Information Technology team supporting the University of Southern Maine's Computer Science & Technology programs. This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career IT professional or recent graduate who enjoys Linux, automation, programming, and emerging technologies. You'll help build and support the computing environments that faculty and students rely on for teaching, research, and software development while gaining hands-on experience with modern infrastructure and cloud technologies. Working closely with faculty and UMS IT professionals, you'll support Linux-based systems, virtualization platforms, automation tools, and research computing environments that advance student success and innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, or a closely related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience gained through internships, undergraduate research, student employment, open-source contributions, or significant technical projects.
• Experience supporting computer hardware and software.
• Proficiency with Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS/RHEL, or similar) in a support or administrative capacity.
• Familiarity with system imaging, system administration, endpoint management, cloud technologies, virtualization, and software development.
• Knowledge of at least one scripting or programming language, such as Python, Bash, Java, C++, or similar
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, customer service, and collaborative skills.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds to move equipment.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with JupyterLab, JupyterHub, Docker, Podman, Ansible, Git, GitHub, or similar technologies.
• Experience working in higher education, research, or STEM-related environments.
• Experience supporting Linux-based computer environments.

Responsibilities

• Administer and maintain Linux-based instructional and research computing environments.
• Support academic technologies including JupyterLab, JupyterHub, virtualization, and container platforms.
• Develop automation tools and scripts using technologies such as Python and Bash.
• Assist with infrastructure automation, configuration management, and cloud-based services.
• Partner with faculty to implement computing solutions that support teaching and research.
• Support specialized software used in computer science and STEM programs.
• Create technical documentation and provide training and technical assistance to faculty, staff, and students.
• Research and evaluate emerging technologies that enhance academic computing services.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Retirement plan with employer contributions
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible remote work environment with occasional travel to campuses across Maine
• The opportunity to make a lasting impact on higher education throughout the state
• Tuition waivers
• Robust retirement contributions
• Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level