Science & Engineering Systems Engineer

Position Overview

SLAC is one of the world’s premier research laboratories, renowned for its groundbreaking capabilities in photon science, accelerator physics, high-energy physics (HEP), and energy sciences. The Scientific Computing System (SCS) Division within the Technology Innovation Directorate (TID) provides and manages computing and data resources for a number of prestigious national and international projects, including the Rubin Observatory, the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) user facility, CryoEM user facilities, the LHC ATLAS detector at CERN, and accelerator controls for LCLS‑II.

The core and experimental support team (CoreX) Department within SCS is looking for a dynamic and enthusiastic Science and Engineering Associate. In this role, you have the opportunity to deploy and support the cutting‑edge scientific computing infrastructure that drives the scientific and data‑intensive computing needs of experiments such as the next‑generation astronomical facility (the Vera

C. Rubin Observatory) currently under construction in Chile. You will also contribute to the development and support of the powerful X‑Ray Laser at SLAC, which promises to yield groundbreaking discoveries in technology, new energy solutions, and improvements in quality of life.

• Install, configure, upgrade, validate, and deploy servers and workstations.
• Operating system installation and configuration.
• Modify, repair, and troubleshoot compute, storage, and network hardware.
• Troubleshoot hardware and software errors by running diagnostics and documenting the problem and resolution.
• Maintain working components through repair or replacement.
• Improve existing scripts by evaluating objectives and specifications, reviewing proposed changes, and making recommendations.
• Maintain and manage assigned tickets in accordance with the team’s ticketing standards, ensuring accurate information, proper organization, and consistent follow‑up until resolution.
• Maintain internal infrastructure requirements, including workstations, servers, switches, and security updates.
• Maintain documentation related to internal processes, procedures, and standards, and promptly record any issues encountered.
• Perform administrative duties related to equipment and systems associated with research or engineering projects, as assigned.
• Communicate and collaborate well with team members.
• Procure and track hardware components to support projects.
• Flexibility to work outside regular business hours to support the successful completion of running experiments.
• Perform routine scheduled audits of the systems.
• Track and manage inventory of computing equipment and supplies, ensuring accurate records and timely replenishment of stock.
• Ensure Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) databases are up‑to‑date.
• Develop and implement automation scripts using languages such as Ansible, Bash, and Python, to streamline system administration tasks.
• Deploy and maintain virtual machines.
• Other duties may also be assigned to meet the group deliverables.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or related scientific discipline plus three years of equivalent work experience, or a combination of education and relevant experience.
• Proven experience in applying scientific and engineering principles to perform complex technical services and support to various hardware and software systems.
• Demonstrate ability to lead tasks, manage resources, and mentor junior staff in technical and administrative tasks.
• Proficiency in documenting technical procedures, managing administrative duties, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining a high level of attention to detail in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience with software applications, Linux operating systems, and programming in Ansible, Bash, and/or Python for task automation, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with technical and non‑technical staff.
• Experience in network administration, encompassing troubleshooting of end‑point devices and the…