Job Description

Enable cutting-edge research at the University of Plymouth through reliable, high performance computing.

About the role

The HPC Systems Administrator reports to the Infrastructure Services Team Manager and the University's HPC lead and plays a vital role in managing and enhancing the University's High Performance Computing environment. Working at the intersection of IT and research, the postholder will ensure the HPC system operates securely and efficiently, empowering researchers to tackle complex computational challenges and drive discovery.



The HPC Systems Administrator will take a leading role in maintaining, optimising, and developing the University's High Performance Computing (HPC) environment. This position ensures the system remains reliable, secure, and high performing, enabling researchers and academic staff to make the most of advanced computing capabilities.

Key responsibilities and deliverables include:

System optimisation and performance management - ensure the continued efficiency, scalability, and reliability of the University's multi-node Linux-based HPC environment through proactive monitoring, tuning, and enhancement. Operational management and automation - oversee daily operations, develop scripts and tools to streamline workflows, and introduce automation that improves system reliability and reduces administrative overhead. Security and compliance - maintain robust security measures, monitor for vulnerabilities, and ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements for data protection and system integrity. User engagement and research support - collaborate with researchers to understand computational requirements, provide expert guidance, and support users in effectively utilising HPC resources. Continuous improvement and documentation - maintain detailed documentation, contribute to best-practice standards, and identify opportunities for system enhancement or integration with emerging technologies.

For this role, you will need to be on site 3 days a week. Although we can accommodate working from home for this role, flexibility to be on-site will be expected due to business needs.



For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Vincent Drach: by email at vincent.drach@plymouth.ac.uk

What we're looking for

You will be a skilled HPC professional with a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative approach. They will have the expertise and experience to maintain, optimise, and support high performance computing systems in a research-focused environment.

Essential qualifications and attributes:

Proven experience administering multi-node Linux systems, ideally in a High Performance Computing environment. Strong scripting skills (e.g., Bash, Python) to automate tasks, develop tools, and streamline workflows. Comprehensive understanding of HPC infrastructure, cluster management, parallel computing, and performance optimisation. Robust knowledge of system security and best practices, with the ability to safeguard systems and data. Familiarity with any of the following technologies or their equivalents is preferred: OpenLDAP, Slurm, IBM Spectrum Scale, Ansible, Podman, Singularity/Apptainer, MPI, Jupyter, JupyterHub, NVIDIA CUDA, Infiniband, Spack, Sphinx, and Jenkins, though comprehensive expertise is not expected and training will be provided for the successful candidate. Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively, supporting researchers and IT colleagues while managing complex workloads independently.

For more information about the job and the person specification, please refer to the job description.

About us

You'll be joining the Technology and Information Services (TIS) team, a supportive and collaborative environment dedicated to innovation, efficiency, and digital excellence. Our team values expertise, curiosity, and a proactive approach, while fostering a culture where ideas are welcomed and contributions are recognised.



We work closely across the University, partnering with researchers, academics, and colleagues to deliver solutions that have real impact. As part of TIS, you'll benefit from ongoing professional development, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the University's research and teaching capabilities.



The University of Plymouth also offers a friendly, inclusive, and flexible working environment, located in a vibrant city with beautiful surroundings - perfect for combining professional growth with a high quality of life.

Application Process

Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.



Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course.

Anticipated Interview Date:

Week commencing Monday 8 December 2025

Our Offer

A successful external candidate for this position would be employed by the University of Plymouth Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of Plymouth. Employees of the University of Plymouth Services Limited work alongside the University of Plymouth colleagues in delivery of Plymouth's strategic vision, and will adopt the University of Plymouth's HR policies and procedures in full unless otherwise stated.



When joining us, you will receive:

Generous annual leave

: 25 Days Annual Leave

plus

Bank Holidays & Closure Days Generous pension scheme Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme Employee Assistance Programme Development opportunities Enhanced family leave Flexible working Retailer discounts On-site nursery

A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed here.

Additional Information

The University of Plymouth is an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed regardless of their background. To find out more about our inclusive community initiatives, such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter, please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages.