Physics IT Systems Specialist

Cornell University; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 86,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, seeks an IT Systems Administrator III to support Linux-based servers and workstations in a dynamic research environment. You will oversee networking, backups, security, and software/hardware installations while assisting faculty, graduate students, and staff with diagnostics and troubleshooting.

The role requires strong communication, documentation and collaboration skills, plus the ability to balance local IT needs with college-wide policies and initiatives.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting Linux, Windows, and macOS in a research environment.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Experience with Apache, MySQL, PHP, and Drupal.
• Scripting experience in Perl, Python, PHP, or Unix shell.
• Familiarity with networking concepts (VLANS, DNS/DHCP, firewalls).
• Bachelor’s degree with 3–5 years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Support Linux-based servers and workstations in a research setting.
• Oversee networking, backups, security, and software/hardware installs.
• Provide consulting and troubleshooting for faculty, staff, and students.
• Maintain equipment inventory and documentation.
• Represent departments in college and university meetings.
• Balance departmental needs with broader IT policies.

Skills

Linux administration

Windows/macOS support

Networking basics

Scripting (Perl, Python, PHP, Unix)

Web technologies (Apache, MySQL, PHP,

Education

Bachelor’s degree

3-5 years experience

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS/Azure familiarity

Job description

Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, seeks an IT Systems Administrator III to support Linux-based servers and workstations in a dynamic research environment. You will oversee networking, backups, security, and software/hardware installations while assisting faculty, graduate students, and staff with diagnostics and troubleshooting.

The role requires strong communication, documentation and collaboration skills, plus the ability to balance local IT needs with college-wide policies and initiatives.