Required Qualifications:
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BA/BS in computer science or a related field plus at least two years of experience, or a master’s degree in computer science or a related field
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Proficiency with Linux
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Proficiency with relational database development and administration
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Advanced programming skills with SQL
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Proficiency with Windows
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Demonstrated ability to effectively work on a team
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Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.
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Valid US driver’s license with clean driving record.
Preferred Qualifications:
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Advanced programming skills with an additional language, such as JavaScript, VBScript, PHP, ASP, or Python
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Familiarity with containerized architecture (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)
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Familiarity with web application development, deployment, and hosting
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Experience with server security configurations, including encryption and authentication
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Basic knowledge of front-end development, including HTML, CSS
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Proficiency with Mac OS
This position will be part of a two-person NRRI IT team that equally share responsibility for providing support to both central administrative staff and researchers at the Duluth and Coleraine facilities. Responsibilities are wide ranging and will include administration of servers, development and administration of databases and applications, development of custom IT solutions for administrative and research needs, hardware and software user support, and engagement with the IT community throughout the U of MN system. The position will be based in Duluth, but occasional travel to Coleraine is required.
Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.
Location and Work Environment:
This position will be based in Duluth and will provide on-site support to both Duluth and Coleraine. After a probationary period, remote work of up to one day per week is negotiable but must be coordinated with the other IT team member to ensure on-site coverage in Duluth.
Work Schedule:
Hours must fall between 7:30 am and 5 pm.
Job Duties:
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(25%)
Configure, install, monitor, upgrade and maintain information technology systems, software, hardware, and virtual servers. Work directly with administrative staff and researchers to identify needs and design, develop, deploy, maintain, and retire applications, databases, and systems that facilitate administrative work and research. Maintain a codebase on GitHub. -
(25%)
Provide technical user support for a wide range of hardware and software related information technology systems and their components, including: personal and lab computers; audiovisual equipment; network hardware and connectivity; operating systems and software; security; and telecommunications. Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve issues or elevate them. Provide basic services to ensure hardware functionality and compatibility. Purchase and maintain an inventory of computers and peripherals. Facilitate software review and purchase. Provide new employees support, including IT orientation and computer imaging and set up. -
(25%)
Provide support to researchers, including: consultation on computational and data storage topics; development and maintenance of research databases; custom programming solutions; and deployment and management of scientific sensors and their data streams. -
(15%)
Work directly with administrative staff to develop, maintain, improve, and execute information technology processes that support human resources, accounting, and other administrative needs (e.g., employee onboarding, payroll processing, and administrative reporting). -
(10%)
Maintain familiarity with UMN IT policy and develop, maintain, and implement NRRI IT policy. Interface with the Research Cyberinfrastructure Champions Network and maintain an active presence in system-wide IT groups. Keep NRRI leadership current on IT projects, issues and future needs.
Physical / Environmental Demands:
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Office environment / no specific or unusual physical or environmental demands.
Specific physical requirements or environmental exposures.
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The IT team occasionally provides support in industrial research environments. Safety training and Personal Protection Equipment will be provided as needed.
The Natural Resources Research Institute was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1983 as an applied science and engineering research organization to inform state citizens and decision-makers while leveraging the power of the University of Minnesota. NRRI is guided by the forward-looking charter provided by the Legislature to foster the economic development of Minnesota’s natural resources in an environmentally sound manner to promote private sector employment.
NRRI’s mission is to deliver integrated research solutions that value our resources, environment and economy for a sustainable and resilient future. We are a mission-driven, project-focused team working to create opportunities for natural resource stewardship.
With industrial-scale facilities in Duluth and Coleraine, MN, NRRI works across five strategic research platforms. These platforms address Minnesota’s soil, forest, water and mineral resources.
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. You are required to attach a cover letter and resume to be considered for this position.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [email protected].
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)
The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.
Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.
