Company Description
At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.
Job Description
Introduction
Are you a Computing Technical Engineer with experience in the administration of large Linux-based computing installations? Do you have strong problem-solving and user-support skills? Do you have a passion for technology and are open to innovation? Would you like to contribute operating a mission-critical computer centre serving one of the largest particle-physics experiments in the world? Then take part!
You will join:
Experimental Physics Department (EP), which carries out basic research in the field of experimental physics. It aims to provide a stimulating scientific atmosphere and remains an important reference centre for the European physics community. It contributes to the education and training of young scientists.ATLAS Trigger and Data Acquisition Group (ADT), which has major responsibilities in the ATLAS trigger and data acquisition system. Its activities span every aspect from development and operation of custom trigger hardware to high-level physics selection algorithms via data conveyance and control infrastructures.CERN Data Acquisition (DQ) Section of the ATLAS experiment, which plays a leading role in developing, installing, commissioning, maintaining, operating and upgrading the DAQ system for the overall detector. This position is specifically in the System Administration team.Functions
As Computing Technical Engineer in the EP-ADT-DQ Section, you will:
Be part of the ATLAS System Administration team that ensures the smooth and continuous functioning of the ATLAS on-line computing infrastructure. Act as one of the System Administration on-call person.Take a major role in the System Administration team responsibilities, including the day-to-day operation, maintenance and upgrade of the ATLAS on-line computer infrastructure. In due time, contribute to coordination and supervision within the team.Participate in the specification, design and implementation of the next generation computer infrastructure for the Phase-II Upgrade. Facilitate the introduction of new technologies and the evolution of the existing ones.Take responsibility for the computer security aspects, in coordination with the CERN computer security office.Provide support and guidance to the ATLAS on-line users, concerning computer hardware selection, procurement and integration as well as hardware problem investigation.Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of information technologies or a related field.
Experience:
Demonstrated experience in the administration of large computing infrastructures.Proven experience in the administration of RHEL-based operating systems. Experience with other Linux distributions would provide an advantage.Practical knowledge of virtualisation and containerisation solutions.Knowledge of computer and network security.Regular use of scripting and automation for computer infrastructure administration.Experience with user support and computer and network problem investigations.Technical competencies:
Administration of computing systems: linux operating system on x86 and ARM platforms, user management (LDAP), computer security (firewall, privilege management, sudo).Installation, operation and maintenance (preventive and corrective) of computing systems: system monitoring (IPMI, Icinga), user support; experience with Grafana/Prometheus would provide an advantage.Knowledge and deployment of computing hardware: bIOS/UEFI and booting configurations, hardware installation and acceptance procedures of server class hardware.Knowledge of operating systems and system configuration tools: configuration management tools (Puppet), network configuration (e.g. DHCP, bonding).Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: scripting languages (Python, shell), and version control systems (Git); experience with Go and CI/CD (GitLab) would provide an advantage.Behavioural competencies:
Achieving results: defining clear objectives, milestones and deliverables before initiating work/ project; following through on new ideas and innovations; planning and implementing application.Demonstrating flexibility: actively participating in the implementation of new processes and technologies; demonstrating openness to new ideas and situations; readily absorbing new techniques and working practices; proposing new or improved ways of working.Learning and sharing knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information; sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer; thinking \"out of the box\" and proposing fresh ideas, insights and methodologies.Solving problems: addressing complex problems by breaking them down into manageable components; adopting a pragmatic approach; understanding the value of adopting generic rather than gold -plated' technical solutions Identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships; debating at the table and engaging in constructive confrontation of ideas; being ready to concede in the interest of the team; seeking agreement.Language skills:
Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in at least one of the two languages.Additional Information
Eligibility and closing date:
Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.
This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 18.01.2024
Employment Conditions
Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.
These functions require:
Interventions in underground installations.A valid driving licence.Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.Job grade: 4-5
Job reference: EP-ADT-2023-180-LD
Benchmark Job Title: Computing Technical Engineer