Data Centre Engineer (BE-CSS-ISALD)

Introduction:

Are you a skilled and experienced Data Centre Engineer Do you want to contribute to the unique challenge of making CERNs particle accelerators function in an efficient and synchronised manner Join the Controls Software & Services group to work on the computing infrastructure needed to run the largest particle physics laboratory in the world. Take Part! 
 
The 24/7 availability of core control system services is critical to the operation of CERNs particle accelerators enabling the organisation to fulfil its central mission. Our team helps make this a success through the development operation and evolution of the computing infrastructure in data centres and control rooms used to run the accelerator facilities. You will have the opportunity to contribute and influence the evolution of this complex and challenging infrastructure imprinting your remarkable engineering skills on mission-critical solutions for CERN. 
 
You will join a passionate team of Data Centre Engineers and System Administrators and take an important role in the management and operation of CERNs accelerator control system computing infrastructure.

Functions:

• Management of data centre infrastructure including servers racks and their relationships with networking powering and cooling. 
• Management of desktop computers and wall screens in control rooms and technical buildings. 
• Management of networked data-storage systems ensuring that they are effectively backed up. 
• System administration tasks for the Linux computers connected to the accelerator control system (control room - consoles data centre servers real-time embedded platforms and virtual machines). 
• Investigation diagnosis and resolution of operational problems in collaboration with end-users ranging from equipment specialists to operations teams. 
• Planning and coordination of annual installation work and replacement of obsolete equipment in collaboration with other members of the system administration team. 
• Close collaboration with engineers from the IT Department responsible for the general CERN IT infrastructure. 
• Participation in the definition of hardware specifications for server and desktop computers.

Qualifications :

Bachelors degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Computer Science or a related field.

Experience:

• Proven experience in the operation of medium to large-scale computing infrastructures in a data centre environment.
• Experience of installation and management of high-performance and high-availability commercial server platforms. 
• Experience with configuration management tools such as Ansible Puppet or similar and a version control system such as Git would be advantageous. 

Technical competencies:

• Installation operation and maintenance (preventive and corrective) of computing systems.
• Knowledge of operating systems: specifically Linux.
• Operation and maintenance (preventive and corrective) of storage systems.
• Operation and maintenance of networks.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Learning and Sharing Knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English with a commitment to learn French.

Additional Information :

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERNs 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 07.04.2026 at 23:59 CEST. 

Employment Conditions:

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Stand-by duty when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: BE-CSS-ISALD

Field of work: Software Engineering and IT

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Technical Engineer

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free) increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERNs comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself your spouse and children) and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant removal travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN the European Organization for Nuclear Research we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering technical scientific and administrative fields. Together we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us here:

Remote Work :

No

Employment Type :

Contract