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- Tasks: Support HPC systems and assist users with technical issues daily.
- Company: Join AWE, a leader in high-performance computing for the MoD.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 9-day working fortnight, generous pension, and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team supporting cutting-edge supercomputers in a secure environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with computer systems and good communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Flexible working requests are welcomed to fit your lifestyle.
The predicted salary is between 23280 - 28000 £ per year.
HPC Operational Support - Aldermaston, Berkshire, RG7 4PR
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: £23,280 - £28,000 per annum + Pension, 9-Day Fortnight
Closing Date: 21st May 2025
Location: RG7 4PR, located between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking. Due to the classified nature of the work involved, there are limited opportunities to work from home in this role. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend the majority of their time working on site at AWE Aldermaston.
Package: £23,280 - £28,000 per annum (depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience). Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will consider flexible working requests so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern on your application.
Let us introduce the role: Working as part of the High-Performance Computing (HPC) Group, which sits within our Physics sub-function, this role provides operational support to AWE HPC computer systems and their user communities. The successful candidate will be part of a small team that supports the running of some of the largest supercomputers in the UK on behalf of the MoD.
Key Responsibilities:
- First-line support of the HPC user community; addressing common issues and response to FAQs
- Supporting the day-to-day running of HPC computer systems
- Supporting the secure transfer of user data between classified computer systems
- User account management
- Supporting data backup operations
- Assist with the commissioning and decommissioning of large computer systems
- Provide technical advice and support to HPC users
- Support and update user help web pages
- Ensuring understanding and application of responsibilities regarding the Company's Environment, Health, Safety, Security and Quality Standards
Who are we looking for?
We would like to hear from highly motivated individuals who can demonstrate some of the following:
- Experience of working with computer systems
- Ability to obtain a broad understanding of an HPC environment and its support needs
- Methodical problem resolution skills
- Able to work independently and unsupervised, as well as part of a team
- Good communication skills
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications
The following, although not essential, would be advantageous:
- Familiarity with LINUX/UNIX operating systems
- Experience of first-line user support
- Experience of web page management
- Knowledge of computer security concepts
- Experience of working in a secure environment
You will need to have the ability to work calmly and constructively in a priority changing environment and be able to manage your own workload. You will also have initiative, enthusiasm, a flexible approach, and ability to work to tight deadlines.
Some reasons we think you’ll love it here:
- AWE has a wide range of benefits to suit you. These include:
- 9-day working fortnight - meaning you get every other Friday off work, in addition to 270 hours of annual leave.
- Market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions).
- Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.
- Opportunities for Professional Career Development including funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body.
- Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
- Life Assurance (4 x annual salary).
- Discounts - access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending.
- Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring.
The 'Working at AWE' page on our website is where you can find full details in the 'AWE Benefits Guide'.
HPC Operational Support - Aldermaston employer: AWE Nuclear Security Technologies
Contact Detail:
AWE Nuclear Security Technologies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HPC Operational Support - Aldermaston
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with High-Performance Computing (HPC) concepts and terminology. Understanding the basics of HPC systems will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of AWE, especially those in the HPC group. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and the specific challenges faced in the role, which can be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your problem-solving skills in detail. Since the role involves first-line support and troubleshooting, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully resolved technical issues.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by being clear and concise in any interactions with the recruitment team. This role requires good communication with users, so demonstrating this ability early on can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace HPC Operational Support - Aldermaston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and required skills for the HPC Operational Support position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any experience you have with computer systems, user support, or working in a secure environment. Mention specific examples that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since good communication skills are essential for this role, make sure to illustrate your ability to communicate effectively in your application. Use clear and concise language, and consider including examples of how you've successfully supported users in the past.
Express Flexibility: AWE values flexibility in working patterns. In your application, mention your preferred working pattern and express your willingness to adapt to the 9-day working fortnight or other flexible arrangements they may offer.
How to prepare for a job interview at AWE Nuclear Security Technologies
✨Understand the HPC Environment
Make sure you have a solid grasp of what High-Performance Computing (HPC) entails. Familiarise yourself with the basics of HPC systems and their operational needs, as this will show your potential employer that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples where you've successfully resolved technical issues or provided user support. Highlighting your methodical approach to problem resolution can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Communicate Effectively
Good communication is key in this role. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to assist users who may not be as tech-savvy. This will demonstrate your ability to support the user community effectively.
✨Be Ready for Security Questions
Given the classified nature of the work, be prepared to discuss your understanding of computer security concepts. Showing awareness of the importance of security in an HPC environment will reflect well on your suitability for the role.
