Job Description

IT Science Computing Team Lead

We're looking for an experienced

IT Science Computing Team Lead

to join a collaborative team contributing to meaningful scientific discovery. You'll help generate the data, insights, and solutions needed by researchers, businesses, and governments to tackle complex environmental challenges.

This is a highly collaborative, customer-facing role, supporting a broad scientific mission. As the day-to-day lead for Science Computing, you'll work closely with a talented community of scientists to understand complex research needs and translate them into clear, actionable plans for the IT team. You'll play a critical role in shaping the computing services that support world-class environmental research.

In this role, you will lead the Science Computing team in managing and developing Linux and High Performance Computing (HPC) environments--systems that are essential to scientific output. Your leadership will ensure they remain robust, resilient, and fit for the future.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a technically skilled professional ready to step into a leadership role. We're looking for someone who is naturally curious, approachable, and able to communicate effectively across a range of stakeholders and disciplines. You'll thrive on problem-solving, proposing solutions, and working with both IT and scientific users to drive continuous improvement and innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide day-to-day operational leadership for the Science Computing team Monitor and report on service performance and contribute to the ongoing development of the scientific computing environment Develop and maintain a stable, resilient, and recoverable infrastructure, implementing service standards and best practices Ensure that all team processes are well-documented, regularly audited, and continuously improved Contribute to the strategic vision for IT services in scientific computing Design with security in mind across all science computing initiatives Build and manage relationships with vendors and service providers Coordinate and contribute to cross-functional initiatives and projects

We're looking for someone with:

Hands-on experience in Linux and/or High Performance Computing environments A strong technical background with the ability to operate at a hands-on level Proven ability to lead and manage change Experience delivering technical projects (e.g., rollouts, upgrades, migrations) Knowledge of technologies such as Linux, HPC, scripting and automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Python), containerisation (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes), block storage (e.g., Ceph), hypervisors Strong networking skills (e.g., IP chain firewalls, TCP/IP, subnetting, routing/switching) Exposure to cloud services (e.g., AWS) is a plus Critical thinking around systems and processes with a mindset for continuous improvement Confidence in engaging with technical and non-technical stakeholders and the ability to communicate complex concepts in simple terms Strong interpersonal skills, including listening and questioning Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English

We're committed to your growth

If you're ready to move into a leadership position, we'll support you in developing your management skills while continuing to contribute technically.

What's in it for you?

27 days of annual leave (rising to 29 after 5 years), plus 3 days for Christmas closure 10% employer pension contribution Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (role dependent) Peer recognition and reward scheme Access to wellbeing benefits including gym and retail discounts Enhanced maternity and paternity leave 24/7 support services for physical, mental, social, or financial wellbeing

Apply today

If this opportunity resonates with you and aligns with your career goals, we'd love to hear from you. Please apply with your CV and a cover letter highlighting your relevant qualifications, skills, and experience.

We're committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone--regardless of background, identity, or ability--has the opportunity to thrive. We encourage applications from neurodivergent individuals and those with disabilities and are happy to provide adjustments or support throughout the application process.

Even if you don't meet every requirement, we'd still love to hear from you--you might be just the right fit for this role or another in our wider team.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 45,000.00-50,000.00 per year

Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: TeamLead-Edinburgh