IT Specialist (SysAdmin), IS-2210-11/12

Smithsonian Institution•Cambridge, MA

41d•$84,579 - $131,790•Onsite

About The Position

This position is a Unix/Linux Systems Administrator role, responsible for the administration, maintenance, and optimization of Unix-based computing environments supporting scientific research and institutional operations. The incumbent should have a strong foundation in Unix/Linux system administration and be skilled in planning, executing, and monitoring systems across short-and long-term timelines. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support. Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants.

Requirements

IT-related experience demonstrating Attention to Detail, Customer Service, Oral Communication, and Problem Solving.
At least one year of specialized experience at or above the grade 9 level in similar positions.
Experience and knowledge in software installation, support, maintenance, and upgrades.
Knowledge of security protocols and best practices for enterprise software administration.
Knowledge of cybersecurity principles, system hardening, access control, encryption, and vulnerability mitigation.
Knowledge of and skill in deploying software containerization platforms as well as integration with cloud environments.
Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
The ability to write concise, readable, user-oriented documentation for software and/or hardware systems, and to write system maintenance documentation, is essential.
Knowledge of operating systems, databases, APIs, authentication services, and cloud environments.
Skilled in scripting/automation to support deployment, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
Knowledge of ITIL, change management, and configuration management practices.
Must be eligible to work in the United States.
Must pass a pre-employment background check and subsequent background investigation.
Must complete a probationary period if applicable.
Must maintain a bank account for direct deposit/electronic transfer.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree (for Grade 11)
3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree (for Grade 11)

Responsibilities

Administer, configure, and maintain Unix/Linux-based operating systems across a variety of server environments including physical, virtual, and cloud-based infrastructure.
Manage user accounts, permissions, file systems, and storage systems including SAN and NAS technologies.
Perform routine system monitoring, capacity planning, and performance tuning to ensure optimal availability and reliability.
Execute disruption to operations.
Install and configure a wide range of enterprise software applications, including ERP systems (e.g., Oracle), CRM platforms, collaboration tools, including Google Suite, MS Teams, and Slack.
Ensure applications are properly integrated into existing systems.
Participate in regular software maintenance tasks, including applying updates, patches, and security fixes to critical enterprise applications.
Participate in the execution of major software upgrades for enterprise applications.
Provide technical support to end users and research staff by promptly diagnosing and resolving Unix/Linux system issues.
Utilize a systematic troubleshooting approach to address complex problems across enterprise and legacy computing environments.
Monitor system performance metrics and proactively identify areas for improvement.
Optimize system configurations to enhance user experience and operational efficiency.
Participate in planning, testing, and deploying new systems, upgrades, and modernization initiatives.
Evaluate emerging technologies and contribute to requirements development.
Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and internal stakeholders to support system lifecycle activities including procurement, deployment, and decommissioning.
Maintain comprehensive documentation of Unix/Linux system configurations, installations, and troubleshooting procedures.
Share knowledge to expedite problem resolution across platforms.
Provide technical guidance to project teams, end users, and leadership on system capabilities, limitations, and best practices.
Participate in planning for new software acquisitions, upgrades, and modernization initiatives.
Implement and enforce stringent security measures, access controls, and authentication mechanisms to safeguard Unix/Linux systems.
Implement security controls in accordance with agency policies, NIST standards, and cybersecurity directives.
Respond to and act on information provided by vulnerability scans, implement patch management, and system hardening.
Support audits, POA&Ms, and continuous monitoring activities.
Performs other related duties as assigned.