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Senior Applications Reliability Engineer
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute
IT
Woods Hole, Falmouth, MA, USA
Posted on May 3, 2025
Job Summary
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is seeking a skilled software professional to join the Information Services Department to administer and support software applications. This is a regular, full-time, exempt position, and is eligible for benefits.Job Description
Reporting to the Director of IS, Science and Engineering, the Senior Applications Reliability Engineer will work closely with Information Services and other departments, including Applied Physics & Ocean Engineering, Ship Operations, and Operational Scientific Services (OSS) teams, to install, administer, configure, and support software 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, monitoring, DBA tasks, security and software testing.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Applications 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.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.Software Testing, Monitoring, 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. Develop monitoring and alert notifications to ensure applications are fully operational at acceptable performance levels.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 ensure the security of on-shore and off-shore IT systems by supporting implementation of security protocols. Assist investigating cybersecurity threats and incidents, responding appropriately to minimize risks.Training, Asset Management, & Technical Writing:
Develop and maintain user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and documentation for onboard systems. Develop and maintain inventory of software assets for key programs. 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:
Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology/Systems, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
A minimum of 10 years in software engineering, IT support and/or reliability engineering
Experience and demonstrated skills in application administration, management, and support
Proficient in database administration including SQL and NoSQL databases.
Strong programming skills in Shell Scripting (such as BASH) and Python.
Working knowledge of automated monitoring platforms for observability, such as Nagios.
Experience with container technologies, such as Docker, and orchestration platforms, such as Kubernetes.
Knowledge of Web servers (e.g. Apache, Nginx).
Experience with management of physical and virtual servers (Windows/Linux).
Knowledge of IT security practices, firewalls, encryption, and threat management.
Foundational knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN) and wireless technologies.
Experience with DevOps and automation platforms, such as Ansible, is highly desirable.
Familiarity with enterprise vessel management software is desirable.
Familiarity with Cloud technologies, such as Terraform, on platforms, such as AWS.
Exposure to test automation frameworks, such as PyTest and PyUnit, is desirable.
Exposure to marine scientific and research equipment is desirable.
Certifications: Technical certifications, such as with RedHat and AWS, are a plus
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.
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.
WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.
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.