Do you have relevant experience as System Administrator (Windows & Vmware)? Do you enjoy producing new ideas, approaches or insights to problems, working with cross-functional software development teams? If the answer is yes, this post could be ideal for you!

The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) is part of the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO).  CMRE is an established, world-class scientific research and experimentation facility that organizes and conducts scientific research and technology development, centred on the maritime domain, delivering innovative and field tested Science & Technology (S&T) solutions to address defence and security needs of the Alliance.  We are located in La Spezia, Italy, just 80 Km north of Pisa, on the Ligurian Coast – providing the ideal location for year-round maritime research and experimentation.

The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) is looking for a System Administrator (Windows & Vmware) to join our Scientific Support team within the Engineering and Information Technology Division.  We are looking for key players with the aim to contribute to the surface and underwater capabilities within CMRE and the NATO Nations.

Role and Responsibilities:

• Within a data governance operating framework, apply agreed procedures and tools to implement system and data protection policies
• Perform tasks within a DevOps environment and work with a cross-functional team of software developers, supporting rapid infrastructure deployments
• Use infrastructure and cloud management tools to collect and report on load and performance statistics and to automate the provisioning, testing, and deployment of infrastructure. Generate availability reports and statistics to ensure full service provisioning visibility
• Advise management on corrective action or procurement action required to correct detected weaknesses in system performance
• Investigate and coordinate the resolution of potential and actual service problems
• Manage Active Directory Services as well as the DNS and DHCP servers, Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (MECM) or similar product suite, to include timely installation of software patches, remote control and HW and SW inventory, SA of Microsoft NPS (Network Policy servers)
• Develop scripts to automate system administration processes
• Provide 2nd line system administration support at the Centre and to deployed installations (e.g. Centre Research Vessels or on land during field trials) and coordinate closely with the Service Desk

1. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS AND ADDITIONAL DUTIES

1. Flexibility Clause

The incumbent may be required to perform other related duties even in other parts of the organization as directed and may be required to perform duties under the supervision of a Principal System Administrator or a technical team leader.

All other related duties should correspond with the required competencies for the job.

2. Deployment/Travel

The incumbent may be required to perform his/her duties onboard Centre or chartered vessels. The incumbent may be required to undertake TDY assignments within and outside NATO boundaries.

2. ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

1. Professional/Experience

• At least 3 years of experience in System Administration of Microsoft Active Directory Services in an enterprise environment;
• At least 3 years of experience with VMWare ESXi and vShpere;
• Experience with automatic patch management, e.g. with WSUS, SCCM, MECM;
• Knowledge of systems security and data backup/recoverySee Par. 4.b.

2. Education/Training

• Bachelor’s degree or higher vocational training in a relevant discipline with 3 years post-related experience

Or

• A secondary educational qualification with 5 years post-related experience.

3. Language Requirements

A thorough knowledge of one of the two NATO languages (English and French), both written and spoken, is essential and some knowledge of the other is desirable.

English SLP 3333

NOTE: Most of the work of CMRE is conducted in the English language.

3. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with hybrid Linux/Active Directory environments;
• Experience with implementation and maintenance of Linux Red Hat in an enterprise environment;
• Experience with system administration of cloud services such as AWS, Google Cloud or Microsoft Azure;
• A degree in computer science or a related field;
• Prior experience of working in an international environment.

4. COMPETENCIES

The incumbent must demonstrate:

• Analytical Thinking: Sees multiple relationships;
• Clarity and Accuracy: Checks own work;
• Conceptual Thinking: Applies learnt concepts;
• Customer Service Orientation: Takes personal responsibility for correcting problems;
• Empathy: Is open to others’ perspectives;
• Teamwork: Solicits inputs and encourages others;
• Adaptability: adapts to changing circumstances, accepts new ideas and change initiatives

5. REMARKS

The duties are performed indoor and outdoor subject to changing conditions and involves physical labor. Undesirable working conditions may apply.

About Us:

The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) is part of the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO).  The mission of the STO is to help position both national and NATO science and technology investments as a strategic enabler and technology advantage for the defence and security posture of NATO Allies and partners.  The Centre conducts scientific research and technology development and delivers innovative field-tested S&T solutions to address the defence and security needs of the Alliance.

CMRE has more than 60 years of experience and has produced a cadre of leaders in ocean science, modelling and simulation, acoustics and other disciplines, as well as producing critical results and understanding that have been built into the operational concepts of NATO and the Nations.

What we offer:

• Salary (Pay Basis): 4.614,50 Euro (EUR) Monthly
• Grade ABCL grade B5 / NATO grade 12
• Salary value as per 2023. Subject to future adjustments in accordance with North Atlantic Council decisions.
• A world class research facility located in the sea port of La Spezia, Italy supported by two specialised research vessels.
• An exciting place in which to work situated at an ideal location, the port of La Spezia, Italy, enabling synergy with regional and global academic institutes and industry.
• Salary and conditions of employment will be in accordance with the NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations (NCPR), which include a rewarding salary and a comprehensive system of allowances, supplements and insurances to support families and, in case of expatriated staff, offers an interesting “expatriate” package.
• A generous annual leave and, (where eligible) home leave.
• The successful candidate will be offered a three years’ definite duration contract, which may be renewed for subsequent periods subject to business needs, satisfactory performance, and the need to rotate skills and talent within the Organization.
• Applicants who prove to be competent for the post but who are not successful in this competition may be offered an appointment to another post of a similar nature, which might become vacant in the near future, albeit at the same or a lower grade, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

Our recruitment process:

Please note that we can only accept applications from nationals of NATO member countries.

• Applications (including the most relevant publications, the diplomas – stating the highest level of education) for this vacancy are to be submitted using the E-recruitment system (TALEO) as attachments;
• Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance (provided by the National Authorities of the selected candidate) and approval of the candidate’s medical file by the CMRE Medical Adviser.

Additional information:

• CMRE values diverse backgrounds and perspectives and is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and talented workforce. We welcome applications of nationals from all Member States and strongly encourage women to apply.
• Selected candidates are expected to be role models of integrity, and to promote good governance through ongoing efforts in their work.