For Specified Term positions, we will accept applications from Temporary Residents with working rights for the length of the term, who do not require sponsorship.
Functional Area:
Research Projects
% Client Focus - Internal:
70%
% Client Focus - External:
30%
Reports to the:
HRPPC Hardware Engineering Team Leader
Number of Direct Reports:
0
Role Overview:
The High Resolution Plant Phenomics Centre (HRPPC) provides world-leading Research infrastructure for the development and maintenance of phenotyping capability platforms (software and hardware) for Australian and International Plant Scientists. It enables researchers to explore plant gene function and develop higher-yielding crops better suited to current and future environmental challenges through access to advanced robotics, imaging and computing that enable sensitive, high throughput analyses to be made of plant growth and function.
The Systems Administrator will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of a suite of scientific computing systems, ranging in complexity from embedded windows and Linux portable computers to high performance servers hosting databases and/or virtual machines. An in-depth understanding of a combination of various HRPPC-developed and commercial systems, via training and reference to documentation, is required. With this knowledge, the Systems Administrator will keep the systems operational, recover critical systems from any failures promptly, and provide input in the design of new systems that interact with the HRPPC networked computing infrastructure.
Duties and Key Result Areas:
Debug, troubleshoot and rectify network problems with instrumentation and computing equipment promptly.
Debug and troubleshoot hardware problems with servers, RAID arrays, and embedded computers promptly.
Maintain servers, virtual servers, and virtual machines ensuring good uptime and system redundancy.
Maintain and verify backups and conduct physical cloning of a small number of critical embedded computer systems and servers, and maintain a small number of UPS systems.
Automate backups and maintain a moderate number of computers (embedded and PC workstations) and servers (various Microsoft and Linux OSs).
Automate and maintain backups of a small number of critical MySQL and MSSQL databases.
Scripting tasks in Linux and Windows.
Produce technical specifications and architectural documentation for network changes.
Produce and maintain systems and software documentation related to systems maintenance and configuration.
Provide relevant technical advice regarding existing and/or new solution designs.
Source and/or procure IT related systems/components as necessary for systems installation, maintenance, and upgrades as required.
Communicate effectively and respectfully with all staff, clients and suppliers in the interests of good business practice, collaboration and enhancement of HRPPC and CSIRO’s reputation
Work as part of a multi-disciplinary, often regionally dispersed research team, to carry out tasks autonomously in support of scientific research.
Adhere to the spirit and practice of CSIRO’s Values, Health, Safety and Environment plans and policies, Diversity initiatives and Zero Harm goals.
Other duties as directed.
Selection Criteria:
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed
Pre-Requisites:
Education/Qualifications: Progress towards or completion of relevant tertiary (TAFE/University) qualifications in IT, Systems Administration, Network Engineering, or related discipline and/or equivalent relevant work experience.
Communication: Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to produce accurate documentation, and to anticipate the knowledge level of an audience and present information and feedback accordingly.
Essential Criteria:
Demonstrated experience in Linux and Windows system administration.
Demonstrated experience in network administration and VM infrastructure
Demonstrated proficiency in scripting (E.g. Bash, Powershell, batch scripts, etc.).
The ability to learn new software and hardware systems quickly.
The ability to work effectively and collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team, and with customers, to resolve issues and carry out tasks autonomously in support of scientific research.
The ability to adapt to changes in project priorities based on client demand for our facilities and services, sometimes with deadlines dictated by plant growth cycles.
Desirable Criteria:
Experience using RHEL/Centos and or KVM.
Demonstrated experience in embedded systems programming such as Arduino, RS232 Communication, C, or C++.
CSIRO Values:
As Australia’s Innovation Catalyst, CSIRO has strategic actions underpinned by behaviours aligned to Excellent science, Inclusion, trust & respect, Health, safety & environment and Deliver on commitments. In your application and at interview you will need to demonstrate alignment with these behaviours.
Other Information:
How to Apply
Please apply for this position online at www.csiro.au/careers. You may be asked to provide additional information (online) relevant to the selection criteria. If so, then responding will enhance your application so please take the time to provide relevant succinct answers. Applicants who do not provide the information when requested may not be considered.
If you experience difficulties applying online call 1300 984 220 and someone will be able to assist you. Outside business hours please email: careers.online@csiro.au.
Referees: If you do not already have the names and contact details of two previous supervisors or academic/ professional referees included in your resume/CV please add these before uploading your CV.
Contact: If after reading the selection documentation you require further information please contact:
Peter Kuffner via email: peter.kuffner@csiro.au or phone: +61 2 6246 4933
Please do not email your application directly to Mr Kuffner. Applications received via this method will not be considered.
About CSIRO
Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is a powerhouse of ideas, technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments, industries, business and communities across the nation.
