Specialist: e-Research Systems Administration

UWC Online - University of the Western Cape; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent South African university is looking for a Specialist: eResearch Systems Administration. The role involves managing High Performance Computing and cloud-integrated systems while supporting research infrastructure. The ideal candidate holds an Honours degree and has at least 5 years of experience in systems administration, particularly with Linux and Windows environments. This position requires strong communication skills and the ability to provide user training and support for researchers.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of systems administration experience managing Linux and Windows servers.
• Experience with research data management platforms and FAIR principles.
• Ability to produce technical documentation and deliver user training.

Responsibilities

• Manage High Performance Computing and cloud-integrated systems.
• Install and maintain Linux and Windows systems supporting research infrastructure.
• Provide technical consultation and user training.

Skills

Linux server management

Windows server management

Cloud computing (AWS, Azure)

Scripting (Bash, Python)

Data management (iRODS, REDCap)

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Honours degree in Computer Science, IT, or Computer Engineering

Master’s degree in statistics, mathematics or computer science

Tools

SLURM

OpenStack

AWS

Azure

Job description

The University of the Western Cape has over the past few years steadily become one of the research-led teaching and learning universities in South Africa, with the capacity to produce and advance new knowledge in recognised research strength and the translation of this knowledge through innovation endeavours. In order to accelerate research, the University established the eResearch Unit in the office of the DVC (Research and Innovation) in 2019. This unit supports and promotes the use of advanced information technologies to enable better, faster and higher-impact research at UWC.

An exciting opportunity exists in the eResearch Unit for a suitably qualified candidate to the position of Specialist: eResearch Systems Administration. The appointed person will be responsible for managing High Performance Computing (HPC), cloud-integrated systems, and Research Data Management (RDM) solutions to deliver scalable, reliable computational resources. The role involves installing, configuring, operating, and maintaining Linux, Windows, and application systems that support research infrastructure. Key tasks include managing research software environments, monitoring system health, troubleshooting, and ensuring optimal performance and security. The Specialist: eResearch Systems Administration applies predictive analytics to optimize resource usage and maintain compliance with cybersecurity and regulatory standards. Additionally, the role provides technical consultation, user training, and documentation, while implementing improvements that align with the eResearch Office’s strategic objectives to support computational and data-driven research.

The successful candidate will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following key areas:

• High Performance and Cloud-integrated Computing infrastructure management
• Provisioning and lifecycle management of research software environments
• Research data management infrastructure support
• User access management and authentication on eResearch infrastructure
• Predictive system monitoring and intelligent resource optimization
• Researcher enablement, technical consulting, and capacity building
• Assume other ad hoc tasks related to the eResearch Office’s mission

Minimum Requirements:(Qualification & Experience)

• A relevant Honours degree or a relevant equivalent qualification at NQF8 in Computer Science, Information Technology or Computer Engineering
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in systems administration with a proven track record managing Linux- and Windows-based servers, storage systems, and enterprise IT environments.
• Practical experience with technologies such as SLURM, OpenStack, AWS, or Azure for research computing.
• Practical experience with RDM platforms such as iRODS, YoDa, or equivalent, and familiarity with research data capture tools like REDCap. A strong understanding of FAIR data principles is essential.

Added Advantage:

• A Master’s degree (NQF 9 level) in statistics, mathematics, computer science or other quantitative fields.

Required competencies: (skills, knowledge, and behavioural attributes)

• Ability to use scripting languages such as Bash or Python to automate system tasks and workflows.
• Adept at engaging with researchers, delivering user training, and developing clear, comprehensive technical documentation.
• Adaptable to the rapidly evolving landscape of research IT infrastructure, with a proactive approach to acquiring new skills and technologies.
• A high level of integrity in handling sensitive information
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, use initiative, and be flexible.
• Sound knowledge of university research environment, including relevant legislation and policies
• Project management skills
• Excellent communication skills– written and verbal
• Excellent interpersonal skills