The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a not-for-profit corporation that operates three Federally Funded Research and Development Centers serving the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Department of Homeland Security, Unified Commands and Defense Agencies in addressing important national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise.

This IT Resource Assistant position is located in San Diego, CA, and provides computer  hardware, software and audio-visual support for the Center for Communications Research , La Jolla.  Working under the supervision of a senior system administrator, the IT Resource Assistant installs and upgrades system hardware and software, performs simple hardware maintenance, provides file backup and recovery services, and assists users.  There are no supervisory or budgetary responsibilities. 

• Operation and support of  Tandberg video conference systems. Set up video conference calls, operate cameras, record video conferences. May perform some video system maintenance such as changing projector bulbs and upgrading software. Work with vendors to maintain and enhance video conference systems.
• Responsible for daily system backups. Verify completion of backup jobs and restart jobs as necessary.  Migration of tapes between tape library and long term storage. Conversion of historic backups and archives to new media.
• Maintain network printers. Monitor printer queues. Clear paper jams. Replace paper and toner. Coordinate both warranty and contract repairs as well as preventive maintenance.
• Maintain readiness of laptops for traveler use. Routinely update operating system, application and anti-virus software to ensure laptops are ready for use on short notice. Coordinate scheduling of laptop use with travelers.
• Basic telephone system administration. Reset voice mail passwords, station moves, instruct users on telephone and voice mail operation.
• Data entry to maintain database of network connections, telephone extensions, equipment moves, etc.
• Monitor operating system, application and network logs. 
• Terminate fiber optic and copper network cables.
• Occasional heavy lifting of computer and audio visual equipment. Assist with server, disk shelf and network equipment installation/removal in equipment racks.
• Assist staff with basic operating system and user environment issues.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

• Associate's degree, completion of technical certification or vocational training in computer science or a related field, or proven equivalent experience.
• Four or more years of relevant technical experience providing support in the skills outlined above, preferably with certificates from applicable professional training courses.
• Familiarity with Linux, Microsoft Windows and Macintosh operating systems and common applications such as Microsoft Office.
• Shell, Perl, C, Visual Basic programming skills desired but not required.
• Possess good interpersonal skills for interacting across a wide spectrum of people.
• Physically able to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds and sufficiently flexible to place and maintain equipment in confined areas (such as underneath desks, inside closets, etc.)
• Although infrequent, must be prepared to work overtime hours/weekends on short notice as needs dictate.
• Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearance, including U.S. citizenship. 

IDA offers a competitive salary, an enviable benefits package, and a superior professional environment. Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. U.S. citizenship is required.

The Institute for Defense Analyses is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer!

Our preferred method of receiving your resume is via email. If you are unable to email your resume, you may fax it to us. Resumes and inquiries should be sent to:

Institute for Defense Analyses
Attn: Employment Office
4850 Mark Center Drive
Alexandria, VA 22311
Fax Number: (240) 282-8314
Email: resumes@ida.org