Senior Linux Systems Administrator

$85,000 - $95,000/Yr

Skidmore College - Saratoga Springs, NY

Full-time

Saratoga Springs, NY

Educational Services

About the position

The Computer Science department at Skidmore College is seeking a Technical Director for Computer Science Infrastructure. This full-time, 12-month position is crucial for managing the Linux computing infrastructure utilized for both instruction and research within the department. The role involves ensuring the continuous operation of existing servers, client machines, and associated infrastructure, while also planning for future computing needs based on evolving industry trends and departmental requirements. Most work will be conducted during standard business hours, but the Technical Director must be available outside of these hours for system maintenance and to address urgent issues as they arise. Key responsibilities include managing Linux servers, client workstations, and user accounts, as well as supporting the computer applications integral to the Computer Science curriculum. The Technical Director will ensure system security and data integrity, perform capacity and replacement planning, and implement necessary changes to advance the server infrastructure. Additionally, the role involves planning, building, and maintaining Linux computing clusters for research purposes, and supervising student workers. The position requires the ability to lift or move up to 40 pounds, which is essential for certain tasks related to hardware management.

Responsibilities

• Manage the Linux servers, client workstations, and user accounts.
• Support computer applications used in the Computer Science curriculum.
• Ensure system security and data integrity.
• Perform capacity and replacement planning.
• Plan and implement changes to move the server infrastructure forward.
• Plan, build, and maintain Linux computing clusters for research.
• Supervise student workers.
• Ability to lift/move 40 pounds.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.
• 5 years of experience with Linux administration.
• Comprehensive understanding of the Linux operating system and administration tools.
• Extensive knowledge of computing systems, including server virtualization, network design, and information security.
• Fluent in programming in Bash or other shell scripting language, and in Python.
• Familiar with C, Java, and Perl programming languages.
• Ability to install and configure standard development platform software in a Linux environment.
• Excellent problem-solving and self-motivation abilities.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, decision making, time management, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to absorb new technologies and keep up to date on current technologies.
• Managerial abilities for working with student assistants.
• Ability to engage with a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, and outside vendors.