Staff Systems Administrator 3

Berkeley Lab has an opening for a Systems Administrator at the Advanced Light Source

Berkeley Lab’s Advanced Light Source (ALS) needs a Systems Administrator to lead the ALS IT team and manage the ALS computing infrastructure. The Systems Administrator will work closely with ALS operations, computing and controls staff with a high level of autonomy.  The ideal candidate will have in-depth technical knowledge of operating systems, networking, security, and data center management. As the primary IT representative for the ALS, this position will also collaborate with other divisions on projects of significant scope - potentially affecting IT policy for the greater LBL community.

The ALS is a dynamic national scientific user facility that provides thousands of scientists from around the world access to bright beams of x-rays, infrared, and extreme ultraviolet light for scientific studies and technology development in disciplines spanning physical, chemical, materials, biological, energy, and Earth sciences. The ALS has been a global leader in soft x-ray science for more than two decades and is currently undertaking a new project (ALS-U) that will endow the facility with state-of-the-art x-ray capabilities. It's an exciting time to join our growing team!

The core values of the ALS reflect a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek candidates who will support a culture in which the entire ALS community feels welcomed and valued.

What You Will Do:

• Manage ALS computing infrastructure, provide guidance and expert consultation to Linux, network, and security groups. 

• Act as ALS IT liaison to departments within the IT Division and direct and coordinate projects of complex scope involving network architecture, virtual infrastructure, and storage systems.

• Administer ALS Active Directory domain: develop and set domain policy, create user and computer accounts. Troubleshoot complex AD issues such as authentication problems or domain controller synchronization failures.

• Maintain and manage virtual infrastructure. Create and administer virtual machines for various functions such as web servers, desktop applications, or virtual control room consoles. Automate routine tasks using a scripting language such as Python or PowerShell. Perform server upgrades and provide architectural improvements.

• Maintain Nagios monitoring infrastructure. Develop plugins and scripts to extend capabilities. Provide training to Operations staff on usage.

• Stay up to date on the latest technologies and implement where appropriate; use knowledge to recommend and develop new, creative solutions.

• Provide end-user computer support 

• Support accelerator operations: test controls & computer systems during startup and tune periods; provide control room application support; off hours IT support as needed.

• Manage desktop and rack-installed computers.  This includes configuring access control, patch management, custom group policies, and other administrative functions.

• Collaborate with other divisions and IT departments on projects, develop best practices regarding IT policy.

• Manage ALS server rooms - deal with cooling, electrical, and safety issues associated with data center management. Approve and manage server layout within racks. Hold training sessions for staff as required for access.

• Supervise systems administrator and student(s). Provide growth opportunities and handle escalated issues. Backup as needed during absences.

What is Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree and a minimum of 8 years related experience in IT or equivalent experience.

• Demonstrated ability to perform work with a minimum of supervision.

• In-depth knowledge of Windows and Linux platforms and knowledge of Mac OS X. Well-versed in cross-platform issues.

• Familiarity with VM infrastructure systems such as VMWare, Hyper-V, Proxmox, etc.

• Significant knowledge of Microsoft technologies including Windows Server 2012 R2, Active Directory, Hyper-V, Failover Clustering. Experience managing Active Directory domains including GPO development and understanding trust relationships.

• Strong written and interpersonal communication skills; ability to interact positively with a variety of colleagues.

• Ability to lift and move equipment associated with desktop and server systems.

Additional Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in a supervisory role.

• Knowledge of Nagios monitoring system, proven ability to write plugins and customize system.

• Programming and/or scripting experience (PowerShell, Bash, Python, C/C++).

• In-depth knowledge of computer hardware including standard Mac/PC components, rack mount server hardware.

• Knowledge of enterprise storage systems such as Netapp.

• Strong understanding of RAID concepts and RAID levels.

• Strong knowledge of TCP/IP and OSI model, related protocols. 

• Experience with data center management including rack layout, power management and cooling requirements.

• Knowledge of computer security principles; defense in depth, common attack vectors and mitigations.

• Knowledge of control systems, data acquisition and data analysis devices.

• Experience performing packet analysis with Wireshark/tcpdump.

• Familiarity with EPICS and real time systems.

• Previous experience in a 24/7 research environment.

• MCSE Certified.

• Apple certifications, ACMT and/or ACSP.

The posting shall remain open until the position is filled, however for full consideration, please apply by close of business on September 30, 2019.

Notes:

• This is a full time career appointment.

• Full-time, M-F, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.

• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities.  To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. Berkeley Lab is in compliance with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.  Click here to view the poster and supplement: "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law.