System Administrator

What you'll do

As a computing engineer specialised in Linux system administration, you will join a passionate team and take an important role in the operation of the CERN accelerator control system infrastructure. Furthermore, you will participate in numerous strategic projects for the future in terms of operating systems and container and orchestration technology.

You will join:

The BE Department, responsible for the beam generation, acceleration, diagnostics, controls and performance optimisation for the LHC and its injector accelerators.

The CSS Group, responsible for providing and supporting the controls software and infrastructure used to operate and maintain these particle accelerators 24 hours a day.

The ISA Section, a dynamic and quality-oriented agile team, responsible for the CERN Accelerator control system computing infrastructure and system administration.

Learn more

Your responsibilities

Perform 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).
Communicate with end-users to understand their needs and help translate these into appropriate solutions.
Investigate, diagnose, and resolve operational problems in collaboration with end-users ranging from equipment specialists to operations teams.
Participate actively in the strategic evolution of the accelerator control system infrastructure towards container technology hosted upon Kubernetes.
Mentor and supervise junior engineers.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

The Linux operating system at an advanced level, particularly RedHat Enterprise Linux and Debian and including aspects relating to networking, storage and security. High-performance and high-availability commercial server platforms.
Diagnostic and monitoring solutions for critical Linux systems and services, with an awareness of security aspects to be considered in their deployment.
Configuration management tools such as Ansible, Puppet, or similar and a version control system such as Git.
Interest in software failure analysis, diagnostics, and validation in a Linux environment.
Knowledge relating to Kubernetes and container technologies (such as Docker and Podman) would be an advantage.
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Computer Science or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge of operating systems, Linux-based support and maintenance.
Architecture and design of ICT systems, control & data acquisition system, distributed applications and services.
Knowledge of programming techniques and languages, system configuration, monitoring, Python and Java environments.
Knowledge of communication technologies and protocols.
Installation, operation and maintenance of control systems.
Working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
Having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
Keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information; demonstrating a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addressing issues of conflict constructively.
Adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/06/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200020 - Computing Engineer

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Team supervision

Employment conditions

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

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum entry-salary of 9236 Swiss Francs per month (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 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 BE department is at the heart of CERN's accelerator complex.

Its mission is to lead the development, construction, and operation of advanced particle accelerators, and to provide cutting-edge technology solutions that enable new discoveries in fundamental physics. Committed to promoting a culture of excellence, creativity and collaboration, individuals from diverse backgrounds contribute to the advancement of science and technology, as well as engaging in scientific education, outreach, and broader knowledge and technology transfer initiatives.

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.