If you’re working in research computing and data (RCD) support, you know the struggle—keeping up with rapidly changing technology while supporting researchers who need everything from basic cluster access to cutting-edge AI resources. The good news? CaRCC has built a collection of resources specifically for RCD professionals like you. Here’s what’s available and how it can make your work life easier.
Career Pathways to Get You There
CaRCC has developed the HR Job Family Matrix that creates clear job families and career progressions for RCD roles. Additionally, the RCD Career Arcs work provides resources for RCD professionals to explore professional development and advancement.
These resources help with writing job descriptions that actually match the work, figuring out appropriate salary ranges, and planning your own career trajectory. For early-career folks, it’s like having a roadmap for where you could go next.
Collaboration Channels That Foster Real Connection
The People Network email list, Slack Channels, and track calls are where the real-time problem-solving happens. Post a question about a technical issue or policy challenge, and you’ll usually get multiple helpful responses within hours. You can find or share job postings on these lists. The monthly People Network track calls dig into current hot topics and allow you to chat with others facing similar challenges.
Speaking of the People Network Tracks, they are organized around what we call the CaRCC Facings, as in: “what or whom you are facing in your daily work”. This blog post helps explain the CaRCC Facings.
Assessment Tools Customized to Our Field
The CaRCC Capabilities Model provides an assessment framework for your RCD program that go beyond “how many CPU hours did we deliver?” The Model helps demonstrate the actual impact of RCD support on research outcomes, with templates and methodologies that satisfy administrators while generating genuinely useful insights.
Real Data for Real Results
Ever tried explaining to leadership why you need more staff or technology resources? The CaRCC Capabilites Model Data Viewer is a game-changer. You can finally show how your team size, service portfolio, and infrastructure compare to peer institutions. No more guessing or anecdotal evidence—just solid data that helps make your case.
Other data resouces CaRCC provides include:
- RCD Research Computing and Data Workforce Survey (New data coming soon!)
- The 2021 and 2020 RCD Capabilities Model Community Data Reports
Stories About Your RCD Peers
CaRCC RCD Program Stories are Q&A style interviews designed to help you learn how different institutions structure and manage their RCD programs. We’d love to hear your suggestions for new organizations to feature — or to tell your own program story. Email daphne@carcc.org to make a suggestion.
Other Online Resources
Take a look back at previous CaRCC track calls and presentations on the CaRCC YouTube Channel. And visit the CaRCC Zenodo Community to see a robust listing of CaRCC reports and papers.