The Information Technology Specialist (IT Specialist) is responsible for the provision and support of all information technology and related computing systems in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. These responsibilities include management of computing environments and supporting infrastructure, enabling and improving outcomes for administrative, teaching, and research computing in the School.

This role will be part of the Research Support Group and will directly support researchers in their use of software and software systems. This position works directly with leading researchers and through their inquisitive workings will make substantive contributions to their research programs. Skills required include software project management (git, CI/CD) and proficiency with at least one modern scientific programming language (Python, Scala, C++, R).  Individuals will work in a flexible environment bringing their creativity and problem-solving abilities to help support a variety of scientific problems from data visualization and analysis to low-level GPU computing, machine learning with TensorFlow and PyTorch and coding to take advantage of the strengths of various computing architectures deployed in the School.

Client Service

• Work with clients to understand and resolve their computing and related technology issues
• Provide guidance and technical advice to clients
• Document client requests
• Provide timely responses to initial requests for information or assistance as per CSCF policy, prioritizing response among multiple requests
• Resolve problems where the incumbent has the required skills and resources. Forward problems to those who are best suited to solve them based on expertise and resource availability
• Keep clients informed of the progress toward resolution of their issues
• Develop the skills (appropriate to the incumbent’s USG level) to resolve client issues directly
• Communicate with clients and peers (within the School and elsewhere) effectively, clearly, and with empathy
• Provide documentation for both technical and non-technical audiences
• Record work activity for both internal and client use

Systems and Applications Management

• Specify, purchase/acquire, and test computer hardware and software
• Manage the hardware lifecycle, from provisioning and deployment through decommissioning
• Specify, test, and deploy systems and application software on a variety of platforms, including servers, desktop, and laboratory systems
• Manage large and complex computing environments
• Manage and maintain critical network services in support of the School's operations
• Document systems, processes, and procedures
• Diagnose and resolve system and application problems, monitor system and application performance

Services Development

• Identify, propose, and acquire or develop applications and technological solutions to support the School's academic and research missions
• Manage technical projects using best practices to achieve successful outcomes
• Recommend enhancements and improvements to systems and processes; provide guidance on technological evolution

• A university degree in a computing discipline together with relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• The IT Specialist is expected to develop competencies to at least the USG 11 level over the course of their career. See Career Path Matrix
• Strong client service skills and demonstrated ability to work as part of a team. Ability to learn quickly and adapt to change. Ability to apply abstract thinking to solve complex problems. Able to work with minimal supervision. Good organizational, time management, and communication skills
• The IT Specialist is expected to develop system administration skills for at least one of Windows, Mac OS, or Unix based systems, or equivalent skills in software development or systems support, with demonstrated potential to gain expertise in other areas. Familiar with software, systems, and component level hardware aspects of supporting changing environments. Demonstrated front-line support skills
• Proficiency with at least one modern scientific programming language (Python, Scala, C++, R)
• Demonstrated skill in software project management (git, CI/CD)
• Able to demonstrate proficiency of problem-solving abilities to help support a variety of scientific problems from data visualization and analysis to low-level GPU computing, machine learning with TensorFlow and PyTorch and coding to take advantage of the strengths of various computing architectures deployed in the School
• Must be able to use verbal and written communication effectively with audiences of a wide range of levels of technical knowledge and understanding. Capable of dealing with people experiencing high levels of stress

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.

The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty, and staff. The University regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees. The University of Waterloo seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism and inclusion.  As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis and/or Inuk (Inuit), Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women and/or 2SLGBTQ+.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

The University of Waterloo is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. If you have any application, interview, or workplace accommodation requests, please contact Human Resources at hrhelp@uwaterloo.ca  or 519-888-4567, ext. 45935.