Southern Methodist University

Research System Support Specialist ( HR Title: Department Business Sys Analyst II) - (PRO00000324)

Description

Salary Range:

Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications

About SMU

SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs.

SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, Cox School of Business, Lyle School of Engineering, Meadows School of the Arts, Simmons School of Education and Human Development, Dedman School of Law, Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies.

SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence.

Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact.

SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.

About the Position:

This role is an on-campus, in-person position.

The Office of Research and Innovation (ORI) is seeking a dedicated and detailed-oriented Research System Support Specialist to join our dynamic team. This role involves providing technical support and system maintenance for research operations, ensuring the seamless function of research tools, databases, and platforms. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in software systems and processes, and a passion for contributing to cutting-edge research projects.

Essential Functions:

• System Implementation and Configuration: 1) Assist in the setup, configuration, and deployment of new research systems and technologies. 2) Collaborate with research teams to understand system requirements and customize solutions accordingly. 3) Ensure system integration with existing research workflows and platforms.
• System Maintenance & Support: 1) Monitor and maintain research systems, including databases, software, and hardware. 2) Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to research tools and platforms. 3) Perform regular system updates, backups, and patches to ensure system reliability and security.
• Data Management & Security: 1) Manage and maintain research data, ensuring accuracy, accessibility, and security. 2) Implement data protection protocols and comply with relevant research, institution, and federal regulation and standards. 3) Monitor system performance and conduct audits to ensure data integrity and confidentiality.
• User Assistance and Training: 1) Provide technical support to researchers and staff, including troubleshooting user-reported issues. 2) Develop and deliver training sessions and user guides on the use of research systems and software. 3) Create and update documentation for system processes and user instructions (SOP).
• Collaboration and Reporting: 1) Work closely with Director of Operation & Infrastructure (and Team), researchers, SMU IT staff, and other stakeholders to understand and address system needs. 2) Provide regular updates and reports on system performance, issues, and improvements. 3) Participate in team meetings and contribute to project planning and strategy discussions.
• Technical Support & Troubleshooting: 1) Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues related to research systems and equipment. 2) Coordinate with vendors and SMU IT teams to address hardware and software problems. 3) Document and track technical issues and resolutions to improve support processes.
• Other Tasks As Assigned: 1) Assist with creating, maintaining, and updating ORI's website. 2) Support operational activities to streamline workflow processes, policies, and procedures systematically. 3) Attending professional development/ training opportunities in the field to stay present with changes in technology.
• Position requires occasional travel to Office of Research and Innovation satellite offices and professional conferences.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree with two years of experience or a high school diploma with six years of experience is required. Master's degree is preferred. A degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.

Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.

Candidate must have ability to manage numerous tasks concurrently with attention to detail.

Candidate must collaborate effectively with colleagues and work as part of a team.

Candidate must be familiar with using JavaScript, SQL and Python.

Candidate must have an understanding of encryption, malware, and phishing.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

• Sit for long periods of time
• Carry/lift 25 lbs.
• Handle objects (dexterity)

Deadline to Apply:

The position is open until filled

EEO Statement:

SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu.

Benefits:

SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.

SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.

The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.

Primary Location

: USA-TX-Dallas

Job

: Research

Organization

: Provost - Other

Schedule

: Regular

Shift

: Staff

Employee Status

: Individual Contributor

Job Type

: Full-time

Job Level

: Day Job

Travel

: No

Job Posting

: Apr 30, 2025, 6:32:19 PM

Read Full Description