Software Engineer in Data Management

What you'll do

We are offering a position within the ATLAS Experiment at CERN, contributing to the development and operation of Rucio, a widely used open-source scientific data management system supporting some of the largest scientific collaborations in the world. Experiments such as ATLAS, CMS, Belle II, SKA, DUNE, and others rely on Rucio to manage globally distributed data at the multi-exabyte scale.

Rucio is developed across CERN’s Research & Computing Sector within the EP-ATL-CO section, which focuses on extending, integrating, and operating the system in support of the ATLAS Experiment.

You will join a team of software engineers and computing specialists working on distributed scientific data management. Your work will include contributing to the design and development of Rucio and ATLAS-specific components, supporting the operation of the Rucio deployment for the ATLAS Experiment, and collaborating closely with experts across CERN, the ATLAS collaboration, and the wider Rucio open-source community. You will also contribute to the evolution of the system to meet the data challenges of the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC).

Your responsibilities

Evolve the transfer and policy engines of Rucio to meet HL-LHC scale requirements.
Improve the usability, scalability, and performance of Rucio for the ATLAS Experiment.
Contribute to DevOps and operational activities for the ATLAS Rucio production deployment.
Help maintain core components of Rucio.
Contribute to the evolution of Rucio within the broader scientific data management community.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Proven experience in software engineering for distributed, large-scale, or data-intensive systems.
Strong track record of developing and maintaining production-grade software.
Experience in the design and implementation of distributed services, APIs, or data management systems at scale.
Practical experience with DevOps practices, including automated testing, CI/CD pipelines, and production service operations.
Experience operating or supporting production services in Linux-based environments.
Experience with containerised deployments and orchestration in production environments is highly desirable.
Familiarity with scientific computing environments and large-scale data processing frameworks is an advantage.
Contribution to open-source software projects or experience in collaborative distributed development environments is an asset.
Your studies focused on Computer Science.

Your skills

Excellent proficiency in Python programming.
Demonstrated knowledge of distributed systems, data-intensive applications, computer networks, and database technologies.
Proven experience in software design, system architecture, and CI/CD practices in production environments.
Proficiency in Linux and Kubernetes-based environments.
Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively in international, multidisciplinary, and distributed development teams.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/08/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Employment conditions

Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month 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 EP department conducts research in experimental particle physics in close collaboration with and supporting the wider scientific community working at CERN. This includes designing and operating experiments, developing and constructing detectors, acquiring and analysing physics data.

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!

Ready To apply?

Be prepared with our resources and tips

All good?

Apply now Allow 15 minutes to complete your online application

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.