Department
OPS ITS - Computer Operations
About the Department
ITS collaborates with campus partners to support the mission of the University of Chicago through the consistent delivery of high-quality solutions and services. We provide secure, stable, and reliable infrastructure and applications to support the mission of the University. We support and enable faculty research and teaching with the effective use of technology. We simplify the technology experience for faculty, students, alumni, and staff, and we ensure technology is mobile-friendly and accessible. We identify, manage, and mitigate the technology risks of the University.
Job Summary
The Operations Center Technician supports the daily monitoring and operation of the University’s enterprise systems and data center environments. Under close supervision, this role performs foundational technical tasks related to mainframe systems, servers, networking, and critical infrastructure. The technician monitors system activity, responds to alerts and service requests, documents operational performance, and escalates complex issues as needed. This role serves as a front-line liaison for faculty, staff, and students, delivering responsive, customer-focused technical support while developing core technical competencies in systems monitoring, troubleshooting, and operational support.
Responsibilities
- Monitors and controls Windows/Linux servers, networking equipment, and peripheral devices.
- Performs routine system checks and documents machine performance and production reports.
- Triage and resolves common technical issues; escalates complex issues to senior team members.
- Responds to service desk calls and generates/assigns work tickets.
- Monitors environmental systems including CRAC/CRAH units, UPS systems, and temperature sensors.
- Assists with diagnosing and troubleshooting hardware, software, and connectivity issues.
- Performs basic administrative tasks across network, Windows, and UNIX platforms.
- Maintains accurate documentation of operational activities and incidents.
- Under close supervision, conducts basic technical processes within a limited scope to monitor and control mini or mainframe computers and peripheral equipment, such as printers, tape, and disk drives by operating the central console or on-line terminals.
- Resolves common and straightforward deficiencies while escalating irregular issues to more senior team members.
- Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
- Associate degree in a related technical field or equivalent experience.
Experience:
- Minimum one (1) year of experience in a related technical, IT support role, or customer service role.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
- Demonstrated customer service skills.
Preferred Competencies
- Respond to Service Desk calls and manage tickets.
- Monitor and respond to environmental alarms.
- Monitor campus networks and phone systems.
- Respond to Building Automation System alerts.
- Operate high-speed printers.
- Perform basic administrative tasks.
- Work independently with limited supervision.
Working Conditions
- Hybrid, onsite and remote as needed.
- Standard office and data center environment.
- High noise environment.
- Irregular work schedule.
- On-call responsibilities.
- Lift up to 50 pounds.
Application Documents
- Resume/CV (required)
- Cover Letter (required)
- References Contact Information (3)(required)
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Information Technology
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Pay Rate Type
Hourly
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Pay Range
$24.52 - $26.44
The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.