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Systems Administrator

Department of Computer Science

Systems Administrator

  • 557350
  • New York
  • Department of Computer Science
  • Full Time
  • Opening on: May 20 2026
  • Grade 11
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  • Job Type: Officer of Administration
  • Bargaining Unit:
  • Regular/Temporary: Regular
  • End Date if Temporary:
  • Hours Per Week: 35
  • Standard Work Schedule:
  • Building: Morningside
  • Salary Range: $80,000 - $90,000
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
 

Position Summary

Interested in learning about Data Centers and supporting AI research?

The Department of Computer Science at Columbia University is looking for a Linux systems administrator whose primary role will be to support computing research infrastructure in the department’s data center, which is currently undergoing an upgrade which will allow it to host a new high-end research GPU cluster. The successful applicant will learn all aspects of running a research data center, including power, cooling, management, and monitoring. They will also learn how to manage and maintain a research compute cluster, including scheduler configuration, high speed network, high speed storage, and GPU technology. Finally the software stack used by the researchers will need to be installed, maintained, and upgraded. Other responsibilities will include all aspects of supporting the department, such as network security, desktop administration, and A/V support.
We are looking for somebody with a solid foundation in Linux who has an eagerness to learn and the energy and enthusiasm to work in a challenging environment.

Familiarity with any of the following will be considered a bonus but is not a requirement: DNS, DHCP, TCP/IP, SNMP.


Responsibilities

(25%) Implements and administers computing architecture in close collaboration with other CRF staff. Provides technical expertise throughout the implementation processes.

(25%) Under the guidance of the Executive Director of IT, assists in designing, building, and managing the computing infrastructure for the Department, including computer servers, shared storage, networks, and clusters.

(25%) Other system administration tasks as required.

(5%) Assists in maintaining the security of departmental data and systems against external attacks; assists in the design of reliable and recoverable systems and services. Analyzes network performance and security issues, using a variety of network analysis tools, in cooperation with University technical staff.

(5%) Assists with making equipment recommendations to both faculty and staff.

(5%) Installing and removing systems from standard data center racks and other locations.

(10%) Performs other tasks, duties, projects, and responsibilities as assigned.


Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree and/or its equivalent in Computer Science or Engineering-related fields is required. 

A minimum of 2 years of previous experience in system administration or related fields. Thorough knowledge of the Linux environment is required.

Knowledge of networking and scripting is required. 

Ability to learn quickly. Must be reliable and meticulous in all aspects of work.

Positive, forward-thinking, mission-oriented attitude and sense of humor a must.

 


Preferred Qualifications

  • Type preferred qualifications

Other Requirements

  • Type other requirements and/or special indicators if CUIMC

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.