Career Opportunities

System Support Engineer

  • Position Title: System Support Engineer
  • Supervisor: Computer Services Manager
  • Location: Arlington, Virginia (2 Blocks from the Rosslyn Metro)
About Us

NatureServe, a nonprofit conservation science and technology organization, provides the scientific basis for effective conservation action. With nearly 100 staff and an international network of over 80 natural heritage programs across the United States, Canada, and Latin America, we are the leading source of information on rare and endangered species and threatened ecosystems. We provide information and tools to conservation groups, government agencies, corporations, academia, and the public to help them make informed decisions about managing our natural resources. NatureServe holds a unique niche, by providing scientifically sound guidance for major conservation investments across the hemisphere.

Summary of Position:

This position is in the Conservation Information Systems Division (ISD), which provides the information management and technology frameworks for the organization. This includes the methods, tools, software, systems, and product support needed to effectively manage NatureServe data and make it accessible. This person will have the ability to plan, manage, document, and perform all aspects of the administration of NatureServe?s hardware, software, and databases. This includes installation, configuration, performance tuning, and backup. They will perform other system administration and support tasks including, but not limited to: operating system preparation and installation, geospatial information systems management, technical support of NatureServe-developed data systems, management and implementation of virtualization products, enterprise e-mail system management and troubleshooting, virus prevention and mitigation, new system evaluation and configuration, Internet Protocol (IP) telephone configuration and troubleshooting, training development and teaching for basic Database Administrator (DBA) duties, tape backup management, and general desktop support. Position involves occasional travel.

Essential Job Functions:
  1. Ensure maximum system and database availability (uptime and recoverability) and performance using expertise and resources on hand.
  2. Document, test, and implement a disaster recovery plan or other computer services plans for managed systems and databases.
  3. Improve data systems and databases by evaluating and implementing new technology.
  4. Work with developers and project managers to meet the technical needs for various projects.
  5. Assist data consumers in reporting improvement through efficient Structured Query Language (SQL) writing and software (e.g., Crystal Reports) configuration.
  6. Assist in the procurement and deployment of new server and desktop equipment for NatureServe and clients.
  7. Provide support for desktop users at the home office, regional offices, and at conferences.
  8. Identify and implement process improvements for the Computer Services Department and ISD.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
  1. Experience managing and using relational databases (e.g., Oracle, SQL Server).
  2. Experience troubleshooting hardware and software issues.
  3. Experience in the design and development of systems to manage and publish geospatial data.
  4. Experience in deploying and managing Tomcat services.
  5. Experience in Virtualization.
  6. Experience in WSS, IIS, and Apache.
  7. Bachelor?s degree in Computer Science or related field.
  8. Demonstrated problem solving and organizational skills.
  9. Proven internal/external computer support skills.
  10. Proven delivery skills and the ability to work within budget and meet deadlines.
  11. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  12. Excellent communication skills (listening, verbal, and writing).
Preferred Skills:
  • Experience with ESRI technologies (e.g. ArcServer, ArcView, ArcGIS, ArcSDE, etc.).
  • Non–profit, environmental, and/or conservation experience.
  • Experience with Linux.
  • Background in biological sciences or natural resource management.
  • Fluency in Spanish.
How to Apply:

Please send resume and cover letter to:

  • Attn: Job #SSE892
  • NatureServe
  • 1101 Wilson Blvd., 15th Floor
  • Arlington, VA 22209
  • E–mail: jobs@natureserve.org (Please refer to Job#SSE892 in the subject line)

For more information about NatureServe, go to www.natureserve.org

NatureServe is an Equal Opportunity Employer