Information Technology Specialist, Radio Telescope Data Center

OVERVIEW: 

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is part of what is arguably the largest and most diverse astrophysical institution in the world, where the staff carries out a broad program of research in astronomy, astrophysics, and earth and space sciences. If you would like to join this exciting organization, apply today!

This is the position of Information Technology Specialist in the Radio & Geoastronomy Division of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and is for the purpose of addressing and resolving design and implementation issues of high performance workstations and computer clusters for conducting scientific research.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Applies expertise in the field of computer science to address and resolve problems in the design and implementation of high-performance workstations and computer clusters for the conduct of scientific research. Optimizes hardware and software for state-of-the-art performance on such systems.

Analyzes and evaluates the operating capabilities of computer hardware in the selection process or for purposes of upgrading existing equipment. Installs and customizes, as necessary, new or upgraded operating systems and utility software on new and existing.

Investigates, explores, and tests operating system changes and releases, ensuring compatibility with existing.

Installs, configures, and maintains software packages such as AIPS, IDL, and CASA for the reduction and analysis of interferometric data from the SMA, ALMA, and VLBI networks. Optimizes the operation of such software on the Smithsonian’s high-performance computing cluster.

Analyzes projected program requirements. Investigates software systems capability, hardware configuration and data communication requirements and determines the feasibility of proposed future computing solutions to anticipated needs.

Interacts and negotiates with vendors, as required, to acquire equipment and services and to evaluate vendor products for suitability. Participates in identifying computational needs and ensuring that they are met through appropriate hardware/software policies and procedures.

Maintains users accounts, monitors and maintains adequate disk space on all RTDC and R&G workstations, monitors and maintains automatic data transfers from the SMA site in Hawaii, and assists users and the Computation Facility at SAO with a wide variety computer hardware and software problems.

For further information and requirements, the complete Job Vacancy Announcement is here:  https://www.cfa.harvard.edu/hr/postings/18-80.html

Application Procedure:  SAO will only accept applications online for this position. Please visit USAJOBS for complete information and online application procedures at https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/510988000.

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in our workplace.