DevOps Engineer for Data Management

What you'll do

The CERN IT Storage and Data Management group (IT-SD) operates the core services used by LHC and non-LHC experiments to store and manage their data, to enable data archival, reconstruction and analysis and to distribute them to archiving and computing facilities around the world (Worldwide LHC Computing Grid). The group also contributes to data management services operated in the LHC experiments.

As successful candidate you will work on Rucio, which is an open source data management platform that has been adopted by two major LHC experiments at CERN (ATLAS and CMS) and also by a handful of Small and Medium Experiments (SHiP, AMS02).

Specifically, you will work on a project that allows better integration between Rucio and the services provided by the CERN IT department, in particular, you will work on the implementation and operation of the Rucio Open Data interfaces. Open Data is part of CERN’s Open Science mission to make research data publicly available and to empower citizens around the world to explore data produced by the LHC.

Your responsibilities

Develop software in Python for the Rucio project and CERN IT services, integrating and interfacing with distributed storage systems.
High-level operations of Linux-based machines and Kubernetes clusters, and large-scale data management systems.
Participate in Operations team, focused on infrastructure, incident response and user support.
Develop Authentication mechanism to export data for Open Science.
Integration of Rucio with Open Data Portals.
Design new APIs and contribute to upstream Rucio project.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Software Development tasks (mostly in Python).
Comfortable wrestling with Linux systems, both in baremetal and container environments (Kubernetes).
Demonstrated experience using Git.
Demonstrated experience working in teams.
Your studies focused on MSc or PhD in Computing.

Your skills

Programming languages: Python (required), Go (bonus).
Proficiency in Web frameworks (for example Flask) and the REST API design.
Linux system administration.
Containers and K8s (required), Helm charts (bonus).
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/06/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Employment conditions

Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
Coverage by CERN’s 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 and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

Let's get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
By the application deadline, you have a master’s degree with 2 to 6 years of professional experience since graduation or a PhD with a maximum of 3 years of professional experience since graduation. You are not eligible with only a bachelor’s degree.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

Your CV (English or French)
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The IT Department designs, operates, and evolves CERN’s core computing and digital infrastructure. It provides the large-scale data processing, storage, networking, and collaboration services that enable CERN’s scientific programme. The Department supports the LHC and non-LHC experiments, accelerator systems, and the wider CERN community, while advancing new computing technologies through research, development, and strategic partnerships.

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!

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Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
How big would the team be?

The size of the team you'll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
What is the working language at CERN?

The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
What support does CERN provide for relocation?

CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the “Salary, Benefits and Support“ page.
Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
What would my salary be?

Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.