At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide technical support and manage computing resources for innovative weather forecasting projects.
- Company: Join ECMWF, a leader in global weather predictions and environmental monitoring.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate initiatives while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in Linux environments and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Your role at ECMWF is to contribute to the Destination Earth initiative as a Computing and Software Support Specialist (A2) in the User Services Section of the Forecast and Services Department. The Computing and Software Support Team provides technical advice and support to all users of ECMWF software and computing, including Member and Co-operating States, ECMWF and public users.
As part of a team of ten staff, you will provide day-to-day second-line support to users and work on continuous improvements of our services, processes and documentation, with a specific focus on operational support to DestinE workflows across HPC platforms. Dedicated user support is required for managing compute resources as Digital Twins are being operationalised on ECMWF HPCF and EuroHPC systems.
In this role, you will manage compute resources allocated to users on ECMWF HPCF and EuroHPC, setting up and supporting users of the systems. You will liaise with EuroHPC sites and other partners regarding disruptions, scheduled maintenance or quotas on HPC and cloud platforms. Excellent communication and collaboration skills are equally important in this role.
Your Responsibilities
- Manage compute and file space resources allocated to users on ECMWF HPCF and EuroHPC.
- Provide technical advice on best use, and liaise with colleagues and contractors in Destination Earth on managing and monitoring the EuroHPC allocated resources.
- Manage user access to resources, including EuroHPC portal interactions, user registrations, access to IFS software, data access and data policy questions.
- Manage/support the implementation of cybersecurity requirements at HPC sites.
- Communicate system availability and downtimes, planned upgrades preparation, and any other news regarding the individual EuroHPC or ECMWF’s HPC facilities that may affect use.
- Provide annual summary reports on the use of the different systems.
- Provide training on the use of ECMWF’s computing platforms and software to users.
- Contribute to the creation of documentation to support users of our systems and services.
- Review, improve and develop processes and workflows to effectively support users.
What We Are Looking For
- Strong and effective interpersonal and communication skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a proactive approach.
- Flexibility with the ability to adapt to changing requirements or priorities, user needs and services.
- Ability to work collaboratively and maintain a supportive and user-focused approach.
- Genuine passion for helping others.
Your profile
- Advanced university degree (EQ7 level or above) or equivalent experience in computer science or engineering, computational science, physics or natural sciences, mathematics, or a related discipline.
Required Experience And Skills
- Experience in providing support for computing services in a Linux or Unix environment.
- Experience in handling user queries and incidents with professionalism leading to successful resolution.
- Experience with HPC technologies.
- Knowledge of software management and scripting in Linux environments.
- Knowledge of a modern scripting language such as Python.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, including the writing of technical documentation.
Desirable Experience And Skills
- Relevant experience in providing technical training to users.
- Experience in Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) domain.
- Knowledge of compiling and running scientific codes on high-performance computing facilities.
- Knowledge of data formats commonly used in meteorology (e.g. GRIB, BUFR, NetCDF).
- Knowledge of a high-level programming language, such as Fortran or C/C++.
Candidates must be able to work effectively in English; knowledge of one of the Centre’s other working languages (French or German) would be advantageous.
Other Information
- Grade remuneration: The successful candidates will be recruited according to the scales of the Co-ordinated Organisations.
- Starting date: as soon as possible.
- Candidates are expected to relocate to the duty station, either Bonn, Germany, or Reading, UK.
- Interviews by videoconference (MS Team) are expected to take place shortly after the vacancy closing date.
At ECMWF, we consider an inclusive environment as key for our success. We are dedicated to ensuring a workplace that embraces diversity and provides equal opportunities for all.
Computing and Software Support Specialist employer: European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts - ECMWF
ECMWF is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values diversity and innovation. With a strong focus on employee growth, staff have access to continuous training opportunities and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking initiatives like Destination Earth. Located in Reading, UK, or Bonn, Germany, employees benefit from a hybrid working model that promotes flexibility while being part of a world-leading organisation in numerical weather predictions.
Contact Details:
European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts - ECMWF Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Computing and Software Support Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at ECMWF on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Computing and Software Support Specialist role. Personal connections can give you insights that job descriptions just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills. Since this role involves HPC technologies and Linux environments, make sure you're comfortable discussing these topics. We recommend doing some hands-on practice or even setting up a mini-project to showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your problem-solving skills during the interview! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've tackled technical issues in the past. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and ability to handle user queries effectively, which is key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your communication skills! As a Computing and Software Support Specialist, you'll need to explain complex concepts clearly. Practice articulating your thoughts on technical topics in simple terms, so you can impress the interviewers with your ability to connect with users.
We think you need these skills to ace Computing and Software Support Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with Linux, HPC technologies, and user support. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Computing and Software Support Specialist!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of user interaction, it’s crucial to demonstrate your strong communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to show us you can explain complex technical concepts easily.
Highlight Problem-Solving Experience:We love candidates who can tackle challenges head-on! Share examples of how you've resolved technical issues or improved processes in previous roles. This will help us see your proactive approach in action.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts - ECMWF
✨Know Your Tech
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Linux or Unix environments, as well as HPC technologies. Be ready to discuss your experience with scripting languages like Python and how you've used them in past roles. This will show that you're not just familiar with the tech but can also apply it effectively.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've handled user queries and incidents in a professional manner. Think about specific situations where you resolved technical issues or improved processes. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and proactive approach, which are crucial for this role.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication is key, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to provide training or support, so being able to convey information clearly will set you apart. Consider doing mock interviews with friends to refine your delivery.
✨Understand ECMWF's Mission
Familiarise yourself with ECMWF's goals and the Destination Earth initiative. Being able to articulate how your skills align with their mission will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. It’s all about demonstrating that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you want to contribute to their important work.
