Senior Systems Administrator: A Career Opportunity at the Forefront of Physics and Astronomy Research

Are you a highly skilled and motivated Systems Administrator seeking a challenging and rewarding role within a dynamic research environment? The Centre for Particle Physics and Astronomy is inviting applications for a Senior Systems Administrator position, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific endeavors.

About the Role and Its Advantages

As a Senior Systems Administrator, you will be an integral part of the Research IT System Administration Team, a dedicated group supporting sophisticated Linux platforms and services. This role places you at the heart of operations, with direct responsibility for the HTCondor Linux cluster. Your core mission will be to ensure the unwavering availability, security, and stability of this critical infrastructure, alongside other related services.

This position offers a wealth of advantages for career growth:

• Impactful Contributions: You will play a vital role in supporting cutting-edge research in areas such as direct dark matter searches, neutrino physics, quantum technology for fundamental physics, and major collaborations like the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and the Euclid Mission.
• Technical Expertise Development: This role provides hands-on experience with large-scale Linux-based computing infrastructure, demanding skills in monitoring, maintenance, automation, and change management. You'll also gain valuable experience with services arising from participation in the GridPP collaboration, ensuring alignment with specific scientific requirements.
• Collaborative Environment: You'll be part of a supportive team, fostering a culture of shared knowledge and collective problem-solving.
• Proactive Problem-Solving: The position encourages initiative and proactive thinking, allowing you to contribute constructively to the continuous improvement of services.
• Research Excellence: You'll be immersed in a vibrant research community, working alongside leading scientists and contributing to the technological backbone of their discoveries.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path

When considering this exciting opportunity, here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

• Technical Foundation: A degree-level qualification in a Science/Engineering subject is preferred, or equivalent practical experience. A strong understanding of IT service delivery in support of large-scale Linux computing is essential.
• Essential Skills: Beyond technical proficiency, this role demands excellent communication skills, a proven ability to work effectively within a team, and a proactive, independent work ethic.
• Research Environment Exposure: While the role is primarily systems administration, an appreciation for the scientific research being conducted within the Centre will enhance your experience and contributions.
• Location and Work-Life Balance: The position is based in Egham, Surrey, on a beautiful campus close to Windsor Great Park and commutable from London. The institution offers a generous rewards and benefits package, including substantial annual leave, comprehensive training and development opportunities, a competitive pension scheme, and a commitment to flexible working arrangements.
• Inclusive Culture: The University is dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive environment, with various staff networks and groups to support all employees.
• Contract Details: This is a full-time, fixed-term position until 31st March 2028, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding. Sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa route is available for eligible candidates.

This Senior Systems Administrator role presents an exceptional chance to advance your career while making a tangible contribution to world-class scientific research. If you are ready to embrace a role that combines technical excellence with scientific discovery, we encourage you to explore this opportunity further.