Senior System Administrator

Main Responsibilities

• Identify, diagnose, and resolve level two problems for users of the software and hardware, LAN and WAN, VPN, the Internet, mobile devices, and new computer technology; communicate solutions to end-users.
• Respond to more complex issues (second line support) escalated by the first line support using problem-solving skills and analysis to identify root causes of issues, determine course of action and propose creative solutions.
• Manage day-day operations and support of the HPC environment (Linux).
• Take ownership of capacity, availability and performance of the HPC cluster(s).
• Support end users in the submission and management of jobs based on Slurm and OpenHPC.
• Migrate existing nodes as required to Linux.
• Implement and manage a system based on Foreman or similar to manage patching and oversee cluster management.
• Implement patches and upgrades to Linux, Slurm and OpenHPC as required.
• Install new servers and storage, build new clusters, configure and manage Linux distributions, hypervisors (KVM) and tooling.
• Automate where possible to increase efficiency of operations.
• Execute upon firewall access requests to the environment.
• Escalate priority support issues to senior staff and/or other corporate technology groups
• Collect and document all relevant information prior to escalation to allow senior staff to operate efficiently
• Document, track and monitor problems to ensure timely resolution.
• Assist in tracking helpdesk calls pertaining to application, networking, and systems problems and issues.
• Assign username, password and access right permissions for multiple proprietary applications, as well as client software.
• Identity Management and multifactor authentication with integration between Active Directory and Linux platforms.
• Perform hardware & software audits.
• Product research and evaluation.
• Provide emergency support on incidents as required.
• Perform occasional after-hours maintenance.
• Incident on-call rotation as required.
• Day-to-day operational support. 

Education & Experience Required

• A Diploma or Degree in a relevant area of study with a preference for Computer Science together with demonstrated operational network-related experience.
• Minimum of 2 years in Information Technology (with a related University Degree) or minimum of 7 years in Information Technology (with a three-year College Diploma).
• Industry certifications such as MCSE, CISSP are a strong asset.

Specialized Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• In-depth and demonstrated experience in the installation and operation of Linux platforms in an Enterprise environment (Ubuntu/RedHat).
• Experience in the use of KVM or other hypervisors.
• Experience in HPC tools such as Slurm, LSF or GridEngine.
• Demonstrated knowledge of HPC clusters and use cases.
• Working technical knowledge of network systems.
• Working technical knowledge of current systems software, protocols and standards including Active Directory.
• Identity management using Microsoft Identity Manager and Azure AD Connect.
• Solid understanding of the Windows based endpoints.
• Solid scripting experience (e.g. Bash)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Must be well organized and able to grasp system concepts and communicate their applications.
• Must be capable of quickly learning new systems and associated software applications for proficient execution of tasks.
• Ability to manage multiple demands with time related constraints in a fast-paced environment.
• Prioritize and schedule work as necessary to maintain department standards and service level agreements
• Ability to speak effectively before groups of internal employees, communicate technical information, create and deliver presentations and information sessions to both technical and nontechnical personnel.
• Demonstrated experience in applying technical expertise and in-depth evaluation to solve complex problems in own area of expertise.
• Ability to create and maintain documentation and training materials, including KB articles, for technical staff and end-user audiences.
• Microsoft Windows experience is an asset.
• Bilingualism (English/French) is an asset.

Decision Making & Supervision

• Make decisions and recommendations within established procedures, based on troubleshooting and analysis.
• Manage operating system and tooling upgrades.
• Coordination with helpdesk, network/telecom, platform, and security teams.
• Work under minimum supervision.

Working Conditions

• Generally comfortable working conditions with lifting and onsite installations.
• Moderate visual concentration in use of video display terminal.
• Appropriate security clearances required.
• Occasional off-hours support may be required.
• Participation in group pager rotation (‘on call’).