Research Cloud Solutions Designer

About the role

The Advanced Research Computing (ARC) organization within Information Technology Services (ITS) has an exciting opportunity to employ a Research Cloud Solutions Designer. This position will report to the Research Computing Manager and will be responsible for designing, building, operating, and supporting secure enclaves for sensitive data research.

Responsibilities

• Build, update, modify, and support Windows Virtual Desktops and Servers in the ARC Public Secure Enclave Services using cloud-init and other accepted Microsoft support tools.
• Build, update, modify, and support Linux Virtual Desktops and Servers in the ARC Public Secure Enclave Services (SES) using Ansible.
• Install and update research software on request for any of the supported Virtual Desktops and Servers on the service.
• Design, build, update, and support a repeatable process for creating new Virtual Desktops and Servers for both Linux and Windows, with data security at the forefront.
• Update and support an automated, repeatable process for deploying the enclave infrastructure for new faculty enclaves in conjunction with other members of the ARC Cloud Team.
• Review security scans for SES networks and remediating any issues listed in the scans.
• Meet with faculty to find appropriate solutions for their research problems in the secure enclave service.
• Develop and maintain professional relationships both with other ARC-TS members and affiliates to advance and support computational research around the University.
• Act as a representative of ARC in relevant campus groups, forums, communities, and discussions.
• Provide updates and advice to the team on relevant initiatives, staying informed about the latest trends in scientific hardware and application technology.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a related role requiring confidentiality, timeliness, customer service, organization, prioritization, troubleshooting, analysis, problem solving, and the ability to work independently.
• Strong understanding of Windows Desktop and Server deployments, including VDI, Windows SCCM, creating and maintaining Group Policy Objects, and working with Active Directory objects in a shared environment.
• Strong understanding of Linux Desktop and Server deployments, including Kickstart/Preconfig, and Ansible or other automated deployment mechanisms.
• Familiarity with operating environments with sensitive, and/or regulated data, including CUI, FERPA, HIPAA, and others.
• Experience with networking concepts like network-based firewalls, NAT, and subnetting in a virtual environment.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience in creatively improving workflows and processes, using analytical & troubleshooting skills.
• Able to manage priorities in the face of multiple requests and projects.
• Able to self-direct as well as participate in a larger distributed support structure.
• Willingness to work in a multi-OS environment, including Linux, Windows, and potentially others.

Desired Qualifications

• Familiarity with OpenStack, CloudStack, VMWare, or other private cloud offerings.
• Advanced degree in an engineering or science-related field.
• Understanding of Cloud-Init and common design patterns for deploying applications in clouds.
• Experience providing IT support in an academic environment.