Pennsylvania State University is hiring a Unix Systems Administrator to support the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences' research, teaching, and outreach missions. In this role, you will design, develop, and implement software and hardware solutions, providing a complex Linux environment comprising storage, databases, and computational research.

What You'll Do

Install, configure, maintain, and upgrade Linux systems and software to support academic, research, and outreach activities.
Monitor system performance, backups, and security; respond to alerts, incidents, and outages.
Troubleshoot network connectivity issues and reported system problems, including hardware, software, and security-related events.
Manage scientific workstations and servers used in research and teaching, including installing applications and maintaining user access.
Develop and maintain scripts to automate system administration tasks and improve efficiency.
Assist with the administration of storage and database servers used across the college.
Install and configure software to meet the requirements of specific research or outreach projects.
Consult with faculty and graduate students on system design, ensuring solutions are tailored to project needs.
Prepare technical specifications, obtain quotes, and work with vendors on equipment and service purchases.
Contribute to system documentation and ensure knowledge is shared across the team.

What We're Looking For

Bachelor's Degree.
3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong experience with Linux/Unix system administration, including installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Proficiency in scripting languages such as Bash, Python, or Perl for automation.
Experience monitoring system performance, backups, security, and incident response.
Familiarity with network troubleshooting and basic network concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, firewalls).
Experience working in a Unix or Linux environment, understanding software compilation (C and Fortran), MySQL and PostgreSQL databases, and strong scripting skills.

Nice to Have

Experience supporting scientific computing or research computing environments.
Prior experience in academic or higher education IT environments.

Technical Stack

Linux/Unix, C, Fortran, MySQL, PostgreSQL, Bash, Python, Perl

Team & Environment

You will be part of the Unix Group within the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences.

Benefits & Compensation

Salary range: $76,700.00 - $115,100.00
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Robust retirement plans
Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation and sick time
Generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children

Work Mode

This is a hybrid role based at Pennsylvania State University.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.