Penn State University

Research Computing Systems Engineer

Penn State University$92K — $152K *
Information Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of experience with Linux operating systems, especially RHEL
  • Proven collaboration in team-oriented environments
  • Strong goal-setting and achieving track record
  • Excellent diagnostic and problem-solving abilities
  • Proficient in scripting languages (bash, python, perl) and batch schedulers (Slurm, Torque, PBS)
  • Familiar with configuration management tools (Puppet, Chef, Ansible, Salt)
  • Current eligibility for classified information access at Secret/Top Secret level

Responsibilities

  • Maintain HPC systems ensuring compute node and storage availability
  • Develop and deploy scripts for system health monitoring
  • Perform firmware and software updates, including OS upgrades
  • Diagnose and resolve hardware failures efficiently
  • Collaborate with users and vendors for system component procurement
  • Monitor system performance and proactively address issues
  • Engage with users directly to improve computational performance

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Robust retirement plans
  • Generous paid time off including holidays and vacation
  • 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible dependents
  • Support for personal and professional well-being through competitive benefits
Full Job Description
We are searching for a High-Performance Computing (HPC) system administrator to join the Structural Mechanics Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. You will work with our team of scientists and engineers to develop and advance our nation's defense capabilities. This position offers broad opportunities for professional growth, including exposure to a range of existing HPC implementations-both in-house and at leading institutions-as well as hands-on involvement in all aspects of HPC administration, from system design to working directly with end-users to resolve computational performance issues. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply. You Will: • Maintain existing HPC systems by ensuring compute node and storage availability to end-users • Develop and deploy various scripts to monitor system health and assess system usage • Maintain system firmware and software revisions, including operating system upgrades, updates, and patches • Perform component and system diagnostics to resolve hardware failures • Work with users and hardware vendors to identify and procure components for both existing and new systems • Monitor system performance and usage levels and work with team members to resolve immediate and anticipated future issues Required Skills/Experience areas include: • Extensive experience with Linux operating systems (especially RHEL), networking, parallel file systems, and security • Experience collaborating in multi-disciplinary, team-oriented cultures • A demonstrated track record of setting and meeting goals • Effective diagnostic and problem solving skills • Expertise with scripting languages (e.g., bash, python, perl), batch schedulers (e.g., Slurm, Torque, PBS), and configuration management tools (e.g., Puppet, Chef, Ansible, Salt) • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the [Secret/Top Secret] level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required The position's working location will be fully on-site located in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $92,100.00 - $152,004.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

About Penn State University

Penn State University Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse job opportunities at Penn State University—the hub of innovation and professional growth.

Opportunities Await

Join Penn State University's dynamic team to assist in shaping the future of education and research. With a variety of positions available, from administrative roles to research-focused appointments, Penn State is at the forefront of fostering leadership and professional development. Transform your career trajectory with the best minds at Penn State University, where the culture of diversity and innovation thrives. This institution stands unique in the marketplace, offering a blend of academic excellence and real-world impact. Engage with a network of professionals dedicated to groundbreaking work and collaborative success across various disciplines.

Penn State University Job Opportunities

The team is actively building a market-leading workforce to support some of the most significant and innovative projects in academia and beyond.

Innovate and Lead

Join the largest network of academic and industry professionals at Penn State University, where over 17,000 dedicated individuals work at the intersection of education, research, and community service.

Drive Change

Deliver targeted solutions and educational advancements through a depth and breadth of expertise that is unmatched in the academic sector.

Be Part of a Great Team

Work with a diverse team leveraging Penn State University's extensive resources and global connections to develop solutions that make a real-world difference.

Future-Proof Your Career

Advance your career with limitless opportunities supported by unmatched training, development programs, and certification support from Penn State University.

Explore

Discover how Penn State University leads in sustainable practices and innovative research projects that pave the way for future generations.

The Penn State University Employment Experience

The combined expertise, global reach, and collaborative environment at Penn State University help overcome challenges and lead transformation in the academic and professional world. Candidates around the globe look to Penn State for new strategies and robust career paths to drive growth and success in the digital era.

Stay Connected

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. Penn State University seeks passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. SEARCH PENN STATE JOBS

Keep Up to Date

Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who are part of Penn State.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Penn State University.
Learn more about Penn State University

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Penn State University

More Information Technology Jobs

Find similar Research Computing Systems Engineer jobs: