Specialist: e-Research Systems Administration

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is a leading research-driven university in South Africa. To enhance its research capabilities, UWC established the eResearch Unit in 2019. This unit plays a crucial role in supporting and promoting advanced information technologies to enable more effective, faster, and impactful research across the university.

An exciting opportunity awaits a highly qualified and motivated individual to join the eResearch Unit as a Specialist: e-Research Systems Administration. In this role, you will be instrumental in managing critical research infrastructure, including High Performance Computing (HPC), cloud-integrated systems, and Research Data Management (RDM) solutions. Your work will ensure the delivery of scalable and reliable computational resources essential for UWC’s research endeavors.

Key Responsibilities

As the e-Research Systems Administration Specialist, your main duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Managing High Performance and Cloud-integrated Computing infrastructure.
• Provisioning and overseeing the lifecycle of research software environments.
• Providing support for research data management infrastructure.
• Managing user access and authentication for eResearch infrastructure.
• Implementing predictive system monitoring and optimizing resource usage.
• Empowering researchers through technical consulting, training, and capacity building.
• Taking on additional tasks to support the eResearch Office’s mission.
• Installing, configuring, operating, and maintaining Linux, Windows, and application systems that support research infrastructure.
• Troubleshooting issues and ensuring optimal system performance and security.
• Applying predictive analytics to optimize resource usage and ensure compliance with cybersecurity and regulatory standards.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications & Experience:

• An Honours degree or an equivalent qualification at NQF Level 8 in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Computer Engineering.
• A minimum of 5 years of proven experience in systems administration, specifically managing Linux- and Windows-based servers, storage systems, and enterprise IT environments.
• Practical experience with research computing technologies such as SLURM, OpenStack, AWS, or Azure.
• Practical experience with Research Data Management (RDM) platforms like iRODS, YoDa, or similar, and familiarity with research data capture tools such as REDCap.
• A strong understanding of FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) is essential.

Added Advantage:

• A Master’s degree (NQF 9 level) in statistics, mathematics, computer science, or another quantitative field.

Required Competencies (Skills, Knowledge, and Behavioural Attributes):

• Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Bash or Python) for automating system tasks and workflows.
• Strong ability to engage with researchers, provide user training, and develop clear, comprehensive technical documentation.
• Adaptability to rapidly evolving research IT infrastructure and a proactive approach to learning new skills and technologies.
• High level of integrity in handling sensitive information.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and flexibility.
• Sound knowledge of the university research environment, including relevant legislation and policies.
• Project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.

Application Process

To apply for this position, please highlight your strengths and include any exceptional achievements for the selection panel. In addition, attach a cover letter motivating your suitability for the role, a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) including contact details for three referees, and your highest qualification certificate to your online profile.

You must apply directly via the UWC Careers portal by clicking the “Apply for this Job” link on the original posting or by visiting the UWC Careers website: https://uwc.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll

Closing Date: 31 October 2025

For any recruitment-related queries, please contact the Human Resources Department at +27 21 959 4063/9763/9708/3551/3756 or email: [email protected].

Disclaimer: The University of the Western Cape is committed to diversifying its workforce. Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants in line with Employment Equity Targets. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment, make an appointment at a different level, seek additional candidates, and may conduct competency assessments. The official retirement age at UWC is 65 years.