High-Performance Computer (HPC) Systems Engineer Lead

Nextonic Solutions • Rockville, MD

3d

About The Position

Ensure the performance, security, and reliability of HPC and cloud infrastructure in support of NCATS mission objectives. This role requires proven capability to lead operations of mission-critical HPC and cloud-based infrastructure supporting scientific research workloads. Experience integrating user-facing platforms (e.g., JupyterHub) with HPC systems to enable secure, interactive computing access is essential. The position also involves designing and optimizing GPU-enabled compute environments for high-performance workloads and applying security best practices, including system hardening aligned with CIS benchmarks and use of compliance tools (e.g., OpenSCAP or equivalent). Knowledge of Federal security requirements, including Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Authority to Operate (ATO) processes is necessary. The role also includes systems lifecycle management, such as patching, upgrades, and configuration control, and supporting collaborative, multi-institutional computing environments and initiatives.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience designing, deploying, and managing HPC environments utilizing technologies such as OpenHPC, Warewulf, and Slurm
• Demonstrated expertise in cloud infrastructure, including AWS environments supporting large-scale research initiatives (e.g., STRIDES or equivalent)
• Proficiency in infrastructure automation and configuration management using tools such as Terraform, Ansible, and Packer
• Experience implementing system monitoring and performance analytics tools (e.g., XDMoD or equivalent)
• Knowledge of Federal security requirements, including Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Authority to Operate (ATO) processes
• Educational background in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience in systems lifecycle management, including patching, upgrades, and configuration control
• Proven ability to support collaborative, multi-institutional computing environments and initiatives

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree preferred

Responsibilities

• Ensure the performance, security, and reliability of HPC and cloud infrastructure in support of NCATS mission objectives
• Lead operations of mission-critical HPC and cloud-based infrastructure supporting scientific research workloads
• Integrate user-facing platforms (e.g., JupyterHub) with HPC systems to enable secure, interactive computing access
• Design and optimize GPU-enabled compute environments for high-performance workloads
• Apply security best practices, including system hardening aligned with CIS benchmarks and use of compliance tools (e.g., OpenSCAP or equivalent)
• Manage systems lifecycle, including patching, upgrades, and configuration control
• Support collaborative, multi-institutional computing environments and initiatives

What This Job Offers

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