Group Leader, IC Classified Compute (IC3)

We are seeking a Group Leader and technical expert to establish and lead a newly formed secure computing High Performance Computing (HPC) group. This role blends advanced technical skills with strategic management and strict adherence to security protocols, requiring extensive experience in classified HPC data center operations, architecture, parallel computing, or diverse technological environments within highly secure and regulated atmospheres.

About the role

As part of our team, you will collaborate with security teams, scientists, technical experts, and IT leadership to ensure classified computing infrastructure meets stringent performance, security, and compliance requirements. This position supports ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and direct all activities related to classified and unclassified HPC or IT systems, including system architecture, configuration, deployment, data center operations, and ongoing maintenance.
• Implement and enforce rigorous security policies and compliance frameworks (such as NIST or DISA STIGs) for all computing assets.
• Oversee the division's budget for hardware, software, and staffing, managing resource allocation, job scheduling, and load balancing to maximize HPC system efficiency.
• Lead and mentor a team of engineers and administrators, providing technical guidance and evaluating performance to ensure the team supports the organization's computing needs.
• Develop long-term strategic plans for the computing environment and lead technical projects from conception to completion, including hardware upgrades and new technology implementations.
• Monitor system performance, identify bottlenecks, and resolve complex hardware, software, or network issues to minimize downtime and optimize system performance.
• Work closely with researchers, scientists, and internal stakeholders to ensure the computing environment supports their projects, while coordinating with security, compliance, and IT teams.

Requirements

• Current TS clearance with SCI eligibility.
• BS degree in Information Technology or technical equivalent and a minimum of 12 years of experience in high performance computing or related environments. A combination of equivalent education and experience may be considered.
• Deep knowledge of Linux systems, cluster management tools (e.g., SLURM, PBS), parallel file systems (e.g., Lustre, GPFS), and high-performance interconnects (e.g., InfiniBand).
• Extensive experience in classified environments with a thorough understanding of security policies and protocols.
• Proven success in a supervisory or management role within a technical team, including project management and talent development.
• Proficiency in scripting languages like Bash, Python, or Perl for automation tasks; familiarity with C/C++ or other scientific programming languages is preferred.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills for diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for collaborating with technical teams, researchers, and executive leadership.

Desired Skills

• Recent and demonstrated leadership experience within the DoD or Intelligence Community, with emphasis on diverse technical environments.
• Specialization in high-performance computing (HPC), including cluster management, parallel computing, and performance optimization.
• Ability to deploy, administer, and monitor hardware and software components, from bare-metal installation to application troubleshooting.
• Systems architecture expertise with proven experience in design, deployment, and maintenance; networking fundamentals, protocol and design, and cloud and virtualization technologies.
• Solid understanding of accreditation frameworks (e.g., NIST 800-53, RMF, and JSIG), compliance policies, and security threats in classified environments.
• Experience implementing and managing security infrastructure, countermeasures, and tools to safeguard classified information.

Special Requirements

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance from the Department of Energy. It is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position, requiring a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program. Due to the SCI clearance, you may also be subject to random polygraph testing. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan and Contributory Pension Plan.
• Life Insurance and Disability Benefits.
• Generous vacation, holidays, and parental leave.
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection.
• Employee Assistance Plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts.
• Wellness Programs and Educational Assistance.
• Relocation Assistance and Employee Discounts.
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities.
• Flexible work hours to support work-life balance.