What are the responsibilities and job description for the Applications Administrator position at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution?
Job Summary
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is seeking a skilled IT professional to join the Information Services Department to administer applications. This is a regular, full-time, exempt position, and is eligible for benefits.JOB SUMMARY:
Reporting to the Director of IS, Science and Engineering, the Applications Administrator will work closely with Information Services and other departments, including Ship Operations, and Operational Scientific Services (OSS) teams, to install, administer, configure, and support IT applications including, key scientific and operations applications, websites and databases to ensure their security, availability, and reliability. This position may participate in research cruises working closely with on-board Ship Technicians and onshore Port Officers, Systems Administrators, Network Engineers, and Software Developers. Key duties include application configuration, release management, patching, DBA tasks, security and software testing.
Job Description
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Software Testing and Maintenance:
Employ software best practices to automate, deploy, and maintain test and production environments. Perform regular software upgrades and configuration updates to keep the vessel's software applications up to date and fully operational.
Scientific and Operational Equipment Integration:
Work closely with the Operational Scientific Services team to ensure integration and smooth functioning of research equipment and sensors that rely on IT infrastructure, including data collection devices, remote monitoring systems, and laboratory technology.
Technical Support:
Provide day-to-day technical support for onboard and onshore systems, including assisting with the troubleshooting hardware/software issues, network problems, and other IT-related challenges. Respond promptly to urgent issues, with a focus on minimizing downtime.
Data Security and Backup:
Collaborate with IS Systems team and Ship Technicians to ensure the integrity and security of research data, sensitive vessel information, and application and system configurations. Regularly test and update backup processes.
Cybersecurity:
Work with IS Security team to e nsure the security of the vessel’s IT systems by supporting implement ation of security protocols. Assist investigating cybersecurity threat s and incidents, respond ing appropriately to minimize risks.
Training & Documentation:
Develop and maintain user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and documentation for onboard systems. Provide training and guidance to ship technicians and Port Office to ensure they can effectively use the available IT systems and tools.
NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
As deemed necessary by supervisor
REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
B achelor’s degree in I nformation T echnology , Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
A minimum of 5 years in IT support and/or administration experience , preferably in a marine or remote field environment, with :
Experience and demonstrated knowledge in application administration and support
Experience in basic database administration including SQL and NoSQL databases .
Knowledge of Web servers ( e.g. Apache, Nginx) .
Experience with management of physical and virtual servers (Windows/Linux) .
Knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN) and wireless technologies.
Knowledge of IT security practices, firewalls, encryption, and threat management.
Familiarity with enterprise vessel management software is highly desirable.
Exposure to marine scientific and research equipment is desirable.
Certifications: Technical certifications preferred
Additional Job Requirements
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
This position may require boarding a research vessel and participating in cruises . The role requires flexibility, resourcefulness, and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues under pressure.
Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift more than 50 lbs independently; carry more than 50 lbs. Visual abilities to include near and the ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions. Other physical tasks include mostly sedentary which includes repetitive motion; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, kneeling, bending, and climbing ladders/stools. Talking, working around others, with others, and being able to work alone. Physical duties are subject to change.
WHOI is a member of the Higher Education Recruitment Consortium (HERC). We are sensitive to the issues of dual career candidates and we will work with applicants to address them. Please visit HERC - for more information.
WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans/M/F. We encourage Veterans and those with Disabilities to apply. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process are encouraged to contact us at (508) 289-2253 or email eeo@whoi.edu for assistance .
Affirmative Action/EEO Statement
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
