Head of Scientific Computing Services

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is home to a two-mile linear accelerator—the longest in the world. Originally a particle physics research center, SLAC is now a multipurpose laboratory for astrophysics, photon science, accelerator and particle physics research. The computational science program at SLAC includes data processing and analysis of experimental data from astrophysics, photon science, accelerator and particle physics programs and advanced simulations in accelerator modeling, material science, catalysis and cosmology. The Computing Division at SLAC is dedicated to providing leadership and support in computing and communications to the laboratory as a whole, and to scientific research in particular.  We’re looking for a Head of Scientific Computing Services (SCS) to play the cornerstone role in delivering state of the art Scientific Computing Services.  Reporting to the Director of Computing, the Head of SCS is responsible for leading a team of technical experts responsible for all aspects of high performance computing (HPC) platforms at SLAC.  The Head of SCS will provide the laboratory scientists with the most efficient and modern services in high performance computing and will oversee evolving the HPC systems to meet the growing needs of SLAC in face of rapid changes in technology.  The successful candidate will oversee a department of system administrators and technical specialists in scientific computing, and will interface directly with the staff scientists performing cutting edge research and with the departments within the CD and Office of the CIO that provide the foundational infrastructure.   The SCS Department includes 15 employees. Specific responsibilities (including but not limited to): Work as an integrated key team member of the Computing Division to support Laboratory initiatives and strategies involving Information Technology. Collaborate with the Chief Information Security Officer to assure that risk-based security is supported by the scientific community. Work in collaboration with Associate CIO for IT Services to develop clear definitions of services and capabilities. Responsible for managing the Scientific Computing Services Department and assuring that the services provided by that department meet the expectations of a demanding customer base. Foster innovation in Scientific Computing platforms and services at SLAC including  the development of a robust program in R&D for high performance computing. Work with the Computing Division Associate CIO for Operations to insure that core infrastructure service requirements are identified and documented and the services are delivered. Manage the budget associated with Scientific Computing Services, including planning for equipment life cycle and staff development Work in concert with the SLAC scientific staff, developing and communicating their requirements to other departments in the Computing Division. Develop prioritized projects for Scientific Computing Services and execute those projects, consistent with Computing Division and SLAC priorities Coordinate and plan hardware purchases for scientific computing. Work in collaboration with Scientific Computing applications (SCA) to develop scientific computing services requirements. Establish the scope of services required for SCS and develop service definitions and services level agreement with customers. Develop technical roadmaps for Scientific Computing Services for SLAC. Work closely with other partners and collaborate on joint projects in high performance computing relevant to the SLAC mission (other laboratories/agencies) Assure Scientific Computing deliverables are tracked, managed, and delivered on time, budget and scope Contribute Scientific Computing metrics to a reporting system and dashboard for Computing Division KPIs (Key Performance Indicators).Interact/collaborate with Silicon Valley companies to stay aware of new technology solutions. Develop collaboration with Stanford Scientific Computing Lead to identify, explore, and implement Stanford/SLAC collaborations in Scientific Computing Services.
Qualifications:	• Bachelor's or Master's degree in computer science, information technology or closely related fields • Must have experience working on Cloud computing or high performance computing in conjunction with Scientific or mission related activities. • Must have 5+ years experience in managing the delivery of high performance computing services • Must have experience in gathering technical requirements for IT projects as well as executing on projects. • Must have experience estimating computing resource needs and costs. • Demonstrate experience in implementing shared computing services such as grid or cloud computing and/or virtualized environments. • Must have proven leadership skills and strategic planning capability • Demonstrated management skills and experience • Proven ability to successfully manage key relationships with internal customers • Must be capable of managing multiple priorities simultaneously under tight timeframes when necessary • Effective presentation, written and verbal communication skills
Desired Skills:	• Experience in Unix/Linux operating systems desired. • Background in computational science (e.g., computational chemistry, biology, High Energy Physics, Astronomy etc.) • Demonstrated experience or knowledge in managing customer service layers within an organization, specifically with high performance computing • Experience working with science and technical researchers in a consensus driven environment. • Ph.D. in Computer Science or information technology • Experience in the federal contractor area highly desired.
Please Note:  The SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory values diversity and is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. SLAC confirms employment authorization for all new hires through the E-Verify Program.

Head of Scientific Computing Services