Distributed Computing DevOps Engineer

What you'll do

Are you a motivated Computing Engineer looking to contribute to a global scientific infrastructure? Join CERN’s IT Computing for Experiments group (IT-CE), responsible for activities supporting the CERN physics community, from the coordination of core functions and services of the Worldwide LHC Computing Grid (WLCG), to the development of advanced computing solutions, and the co-design of future computing models with the experiments. As part of the CE-LCG section, you will help shape the future of distributed computing within WLCG, a global collaboration of more than 170 computing centres in over 40 countries supporting cutting-edge particle physics research.

As part of the High-Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) programme, the next major upgrade of the Large Hadron Collider, now entering its construction phase, you will contribute to the operation and evolution of a large-scale distributed computing infrastructure, ensuring reliable data processing and transfer services for global scientific collaborations. You will work in a stimulating international and multidisciplinary environment, contributing directly to the computing projects and operations of one or more scientific collaborations, as part of a team of computing engineers and physicists driving the continuous improvement of services and operational procedures.

Your responsibilities

Play a key role in the development, integration, and automation of operational tools and workflows in preparation for the HL-LHC.
As part of your experiment liaison role, contribute directly to selected computing projects and operations of one or more scientific collaborations.
Monitor and support the operation of a high-scale global distributed computing infrastructure across multiple international sites.
Evolve and operate monitoring, accounting, and topology systems used to track service availability, data transfers, and resource utilisation.
Support daily operational activities, including incident tracking, debugging of service issues, and coordination with external sites and users.
Contribute to the integration and adoption of AI-driven tools and automation technologies within operational processes to improve operational efficiency, automate routine tasks, and enhance service performance and reliability.

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Your profile

Experience in Linux-based distributed computing environments.
Proficiency in Python programming and scripting languages.
Experience with web frameworks, relational and non-relational databases.
Experience with DevOps workflows including Code Management (Jira, GitLab), Continuous Integration, Delivery and Deployment, Containerisation & Orchestration (Kubernetes), tools widely used for monitoring (Prometheus, Grafana).
Capacity to critically interpret and analyse data.
Experience working with large-scale systems such as cloud or grid infrastructures.
Experience with the computing of large scientific projects or working with scientific communities would be considered a strong asset.
Ability to work in an international and collaborative environment.
Master's Degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Physics, Computing, Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge of programming techniques and languages.
Knowledge of system configuration tools.
Installation, operation and maintenance (preventive and corrective) of computing systems.
Development of application software.
Testing, diagnosing and optimisation of software.
Development of data visualisation applications.
Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures.
Knowledge of operating systems.
Gains trust and collaboration from others.
Identifies, defines and assesses problems, takes action to address them.
Expresses opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeps to the point.
Delivers high quality work on time and fulfils expectations.
Creates shared interests and promotes contact and collaboration with key external partners.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/10/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200140 - Applied Physicist

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 minimum net entry-salary of 9236 Swiss Francs per month, increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
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, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

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.
You have relevant qualifications and professional experience.
If you have previously held a Staff contract at CERN, you will not be eligible for these positions.
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)
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.