IT Science Computing Engineer
IT Science Computing Engineer

IT Science Computing Engineer

Wallingford Full-Time 32900 - 36700 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support and develop high-performance computing infrastructure for environmental science.
  • Company: Join UKCEH, a leading independent research institute focused on environmental data and solutions.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, flexible working, and wellness perks like gym discounts.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in environmental science while growing your IT skills in a collaborative team.
  • Qualifications: Experience with Linux systems, automation tools, and high-performance computing is essential.
  • Other info: We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and offer support throughout the hiring process.

The predicted salary is between 32900 - 36700 ÂŁ per year.

Salary – £38,989 to £41,321
Hybrid working (50/50)
Permanent
Location: Lancaster, Wallingford or Edinburgh
We will review applications upon receipt. We reserve the right to close this advert if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.

UKCEH is looking for an IT Science Computing Engineer to join our team of talented individuals, contributing to scientific discovery and generating the data, insights and solutions that researchers, businesses and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges.

You’ll be joining a small, specialist team within the IT department, dedicated to enabling UKCEH to continue delivering world-leading environmental science. We work closely with our scientists, providing high-performance computing (HPC) and cloud-based systems across both on-premises and public platforms.

In this role, your primary focus will be the ongoing development and support of reliable, high-performance scientific computing infrastructure and services. You’ll play a key part in driving improvements in efficiency, effectiveness, and adaptability within a fast-evolving operational environment.

We’re looking for someone confident working in Linux environments, with solid experience in configuration management systems and/or event-driven automation. As part of our close-knit team, you’ll also bring experience in project delivery—gathering user and operational requirements, building robust, production-ready solutions, and producing clear, comprehensive documentation.

Your main responsibilities will include:

  • Routine maintenance and monitoring – patch management, configuration coding, system hardening, auditing.
  • Ansible automation – building modules, supporting DevOps, implementing CIS standards and policies
  • Providing crucial support for production Linux systems across various distributions, including Redhat, Centos, Rocky, and Ubuntu
  • Confidence in server and storage management within a Linux environment, utilising a range of infrastructures.
  • Experience of HPC with Linux servers, virtual machines, containers, networking, software development environments, public cloud computing services (Azure, AWS), an advantage.
  • Using hypervisor and container technologies such as VMware, KVM, LXC, Docker, and Kubernetes
  • You’ll be working with tools like Netbox, Service Desk Plus, Ansible, Proxmox, Ceph and Kubernetes.

    For the role of IT Science Computing Engineer, we’re looking for somebody who has:

  • Relevant work experience or degree in an IT-related subject
  • Linux systems across multiple distributions
  • management systems such as Ansible, Puppet, Chef, or Salt
  • Experience with container technologies, such as LXC, Docker, and Kubernetes
  • Experience with high-performance computing (HPC)
  • Excellent written and spoken communication skills, able to build good working relationships, demonstrating good listening skills and the ability to steer a conversation towards finding solutions, using a collaborative and inclusive approach
  • You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute that’s committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH.

    Our science makes a real difference, enabling people and the environment to prosper, and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data, collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years.

    Working for UKCEH is rewarding

    We appreciate the continuous dedication and contributions of our staff, which is why we provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes financial incentives and wellbeing-oriented perks, such as:

  • 27 days annual leave (rising to 29 days after 5 years’ service) plus 3 days for Christmas closure
  • 10% employer pension contribution
  • Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (role dependant)
  • Peer reward and recognition scheme
  • Dental insurance, gym/fitness discounts, retail discount portal
  • Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
  • 24-hour, 365-day support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues and much more…
  • At UKCEH, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone—regardless of background, identity, ability, or circumstance—has the opportunity to thrive.

    As a Disability Confident employer, we actively encourage applications from neurodivergent candidates and those with disabilities. We are happy to provide any adjustments or support you may need throughout the application process—please don’t hesitate to reach out. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we’d love to hear from you anyway. You may be just the right fit for this role or another within our wider team.

    Please note: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role and this does not qualify for endorsement to support a Global Talent Visa application. If you are considering pursuing self-sponsorship, please indicate this in your application so we can take it into account during the recruitment process.

    IT Science Computing Engineer employer: UKCEH

    UKCEH is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and wellbeing. With a comprehensive benefits package, including generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to professional development, you'll thrive in a role that contributes to meaningful environmental research. Located in Wallingford, you will be part of a dedicated team driving scientific discovery and making a real difference in society.
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    Contact Detail:

    UKCEH Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land IT Science Computing Engineer

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Familiarise yourself with the specific Linux distributions mentioned in the job description, such as Redhat, Centos, Rocky, and Ubuntu. Having hands-on experience or projects that showcase your skills in these environments can set you apart from other candidates.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Highlight any experience you have with high-performance computing (HPC) and cloud services like Azure or AWS. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these technologies in past roles, as this will demonstrate your capability to contribute effectively to the team.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Showcase your knowledge of automation tools like Ansible, Puppet, or Chef. Consider preparing examples of how you've implemented automation in previous projects, as this aligns closely with the responsibilities of the role and demonstrates your proactive approach.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Network with current or former employees of UKCEH on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.

    We think you need these skills to ace IT Science Computing Engineer

    Linux System Administration
    Configuration Management (Ansible, Puppet, Chef, Salt)
    High-Performance Computing (HPC)
    Container Technologies (Docker, Kubernetes, LXC)
    Virtualisation Technologies (VMware, KVM)
    Cloud Computing Services (Azure, AWS)
    System Hardening and Auditing
    Patch Management
    Event-Driven Automation
    Networking Skills
    Documentation Skills
    Project Delivery Experience
    Excellent Communication Skills
    Collaboration and Teamwork

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in Linux environments, configuration management systems, and high-performance computing. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements related to the job description.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your background to the role of IT Science Computing Engineer. Emphasise your experience with automation tools like Ansible and your ability to work collaboratively within a team.

    Showcase Technical Skills: In your application, clearly outline your technical skills, especially those mentioned in the job description such as experience with container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes) and cloud computing services (Azure, AWS).

    Highlight Communication Abilities: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teams or stakeholders in previous positions. This will demonstrate your ability to build good working relationships.

    How to prepare for a job interview at UKCEH

    ✨Showcase Your Linux Expertise

    Since the role requires confidence in Linux environments, be prepared to discuss your experience with various distributions like Redhat, Centos, and Ubuntu. Highlight specific projects where you managed Linux systems and any challenges you overcame.

    ✨Demonstrate Your Automation Skills

    Familiarity with configuration management systems such as Ansible is crucial. Be ready to explain how you've used automation to improve efficiency in past roles, and consider sharing examples of modules you've built or supported.

    ✨Discuss High-Performance Computing Experience

    If you have experience with high-performance computing (HPC), make sure to mention it. Talk about the types of HPC systems you've worked with and how you've contributed to their development or maintenance.

    ✨Prepare for Collaborative Problem-Solving

    The role emphasises teamwork and communication. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others to solve technical issues. Be ready to demonstrate your listening skills and how you steer conversations towards solutions.

    IT Science Computing Engineer
    UKCEH
    Location: Wallingford
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    U
    • IT Science Computing Engineer

      Wallingford
      Full-Time
      32900 - 36700 ÂŁ / year (est.)
    • U

      UKCEH

      200-500
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