Unix System Administrator Position

Objective

To retain a support person who would be a dedicated full-time system administrator with UNIX system administration experience. This implies not only knowledge about Linux, but also knowledge about other UNIX-based systems such as Solaris, FreeBSD, etc. They would install update and manage servers, ensuring their reliable operation.

Could potentially maintain code version repository for development projects and other contents that we need for productivity.

This individual would also research and recommend new technology opportunities and new server administration strategies (eg, such as virtual server opportunities.)

Task and Skill List

  • research harware options for machines, storage, networking
  • critically review market trends
  • install and configure hardware (i386, amd64, Alpha)
  • research and update drivers as necessary
  • expertise with UNIX tools and shell scripting a must
  • provide continuity of service between UNIX servers and VMS and Microsoft platforms.
  • configure and troubleshoot OS level tools, kernel modules and device drivers (C programming skills required)
  • build, port and install open source packages from source
  • implement security policies at the OS level
  • design and implement consolidated user provisioning functions
  • configure syslog and monitor audits for system failures and security breaches
  • configure, customize, and troubleshoot common networking services, including sendmail, bind (named), inetd, sshd, apache httpd, (including virtual servers and SSL)
  • implement, enhance and maintain distributed storage solutions, SANs, NAS, NFS, samba.
  • research, design and implement virtualization solutions for CPU (e.g. vmware), disk and tape storage
  • maintain, enhance, test and troubleshoot backup systems
  • assist in installing and maintaining application server software (e.g., JBoss) requires some Java, PHP, Perl experience.
  • implement glue for distributed dataflows
  • maintain subversion source code repositories (and their migration from CVS)
  • maintain collaborative tools such as wikis and other content management systems

This is the prime venue for an ad:

http://www.usenix.org/publications/login/login07a_reserve.pdf

in it we can do a half page for about $1000. We need to make that half page rock. It must sell the position (and Indianapolis with it). I think our position can be for a highly innovative person who likes to make open source stuff rock yet who may not be too skilled with running his own company. (I'm thinking of a long-and-greesy-haired wizard :)

Modified version of UNIX sysadmin job description (from Internet search)

http://mit.edu/zacheiss/www/job.html

Title: UNIX System Administrator Job Description:

Unix System Administrator, Information Services and Technology, to help manage servers running UNIX-based systems, inlcuding Solaris, Linux, and FreeBSD. VMS operating systems support may also be included.

Duties

  • Install software, apply patches, manage file systems, monitor performance and troubleshoot alerts from commercial, open source and locally developed software.
  • System failure analysis and recovery; insuring the consistency and integrity of file systems.
  • Business continuity planning;
  • Hardware/software configuration; and management
  • Interact directly with Medical Informatics Personel to negotiate solutions and implementation specifics.
  • Technical support and general troubleshooting
  • Support 20+ servers in a 24x7 data center.
  • Manage and lead hardware and software migration and upgrade efforts of varying size and complexity.
  • ...

Required Technical Skills

  • In-depth knowledge of UNIX-based operating systems (e.g. Solaris, Linux, and BSD.)
  • In-depth knowledge of common server-based software, inlcuding Subversion, Apache

my list contains more to at least check during interview

  • 5 yrs professional systems maintenance experience in a Unix data center environment
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Strong experience with system management tools, logical file systems, and client/server environments.
  • In-depth hardware configuration knowledge
  • Shell programming expertise
  • Network experience
  • Strong troubleshooting skills
  • Demonstrated initiative, customer orientation and team work competencies
  • Ability to communicate technical issues with non-technical people

Preferred Skills

  • Knowledge of TRU64, VMS, Oracle, RMAN, Veritas NetBackup?, IBM Tivoli, Nagios
  • EMC SAN technology.

This list is too vendor specific. I would not include it.

PART II. JOB DESCRIPTORS

This sets an interesting example for improved job descriptions. Much better than ours.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERTISE:

Requires a thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of own professional discipline. Requires in-depth understanding of the purpose and operations outside own area. Understands internal/external client; may require awareness of external trends and best practices.

CRITICAL THINKING AND PROBLEM-SOLVING:

Helps others in clarifying somewhat complex problems; adapts or modifies established approaches. Identifies and selects appropriate tools, data, and analysis techniques to diagnose problems and develop solutions. Balances competing short- and long-term goals within one's area in alignment with the larger area's direction and objectives.

COLLABORATION:

Actively seeks help in gathering resources, solicits input, and uses a variety of techniques to reach a solution. Assists with setting goals and monitors progress. Identifies need for outside support.

COMMUNICATION EFFECTIVENESS:

Writes and presents reports and/or proposals for internal and/or external audiences. Interprets other viewpoints and assimilates them into work processes. Formally transfers technical or administrative knowledge to others.

DECISION MAKING:

Decision making guided by precedents and objectives. Makes decisions and recommendations on issues affecting a Department/School, project or client base.

INFLUENCING AND LEADING:

Serves as a mentor/developmental advisor and/or training resource to less experienced staff, providing an example with regard to quality of work. May ensure that others comply with established standards within one's own work unit. May provide guidance in routine tasks.

RESPONSIBILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY:

Work significantly affects multiple units within the department. Job has short- to intermediate-term impact. Follows departmental procedures to complete work, but may recommend changes to departmental processes. Often prioritizes own work; work is reviewed at key stages by manager/administrative officer or team. Anticipates consequences of actions, potential problems, or opportunities for change.