System Administrator (Ops)

The Role

Join our growing team to help re-architect and re-implement the University’s research virtual machine (RVM) and high-throughput computing (HTC) platforms. Beyond provisioning and maintaining Linux virtual systems, as a system administrator role usually entails, you will be a critical force behind hundreds of high-impact research projects.

Shape the Future of Discovery

We’re not just supporting research. We’re building the platforms that power breakthroughs, from life-saving cancer treatments to game-changing AI. Beyond fostering 25 Nobel prize winners, the University also took part in the advent of the computer resolution started in 1948, when the machine affectionately known as “the Baby” ran its first stored program in the very building we work in.

The University has committed to becoming one of the world’s leading research institutions through one of the largest investments in facilities ever seen at a UK university, with £750 million spent so far and another £1 billion to follow.

As part of the Research Platforms team, you’ll join a group of 25+ engineers who thrive on challenge, learning and purpose. Many of us come from research backgrounds. We understand the mission and we love building what makes it possible.

This is a rare chance to combine technical leadership with societal contribution and see your work reflected in real-world outcomes.

What You'll Do

• Deploy, maintain and support research virtual machines and containers (mostly Linux, with some MS Windows).
• Support our HTCondor high-throughput computing environment.
• Provide direct support to researchers.

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need to meet every requirement to apply. We value growth potential, curiosity, and collaboration just as much as current skills. This is a role for someone who wants autonomy, impact and influence — not micro-management.

What You’ll Bring

• Previous relevant experience.
• A good working knowledge of Linux administration and troubleshooting.
• A good working knowledge of virtualisation and container technologies.
• A basic understanding of networking, network storage protocols (e.g. NFS, SMB) and platform security principles.
• Basic scripting and automation skills (e.g. Python, Bash, Perl).
• A keen appetite to learn new skills and technologies.

Nice to Have

• Experience running, or using, a HTC (or high-performance computing, HPC) platform.
• Good communication skills, ability to engage researchers, solve problems and explain infrastructure in plain terms.
• A good working knowledge of MS Windows system administration.
• Prior experience with cloud infrastructure and related concepts.
• Devops skills.

What You’ll Get

• 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas closure.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Staff discounts, cycle to work scheme and nursery options.
• Learning & development tailored to your growth.
• Wellbeing support, including fitness and mental health services.

And more! (see https://www.manchester.ac.uk/connect/jobs/benefits-working-here)

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Blended working arrangements may be considered

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Gael Donval

Email: gael.donval@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

Jobtrain: 0161 850 2004 https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.