Computing Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With a mission to probe the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs a diverse workforce of physicists and engineers who work together to study the basic constituents of matter. The organization operates in multiple countries and has a significant impact on the global scientific community. CERN is committed to diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce is essential for its success.

Job Overview:
The position within the Radiation Protection (RP) Group of the Occupational Health and Safety and Environmental Protection (HSE) Unit at CERN focuses on ensuring the safety of personnel and the public from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation associated with CERN's activities. The successful candidate will join the HSE-RP-CS (Characterisation & Services) section, playing a crucial role in managing and enhancing the RP group's high-performance computing infrastructure. This includes supporting the FLUKA Monte Carlo simulations and the virtualized IT systems that underpin the advanced radio-analytical laboratory. The role requires a proactive approach to reviewing existing software stacks, providing technical support to end-users, and participating in the virtualization and upgrade of the laboratory's IT infrastructure. The candidate will also be involved in investigating and prototyping new software solutions for deploying machine learning simulation tools on a Condor cluster, making this a dynamic and impactful position within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Computing Engineer include reviewing the existing Condor-based software stack to identify opportunities for accommodating the next generation of the FLUKA code (V5). The engineer will communicate regularly with end-users to provide technical support related to the cluster system, ensuring that users can effectively utilize the computing resources available. Participation in the further virtualization and upgrade of the laboratory's server/client IT infrastructure is also a key responsibility. Additionally, the engineer will investigate and prototype a software stack that enables the parallel deployment of newly developed machine learning simulation tools on a Condor cluster, contributing to the advancement of CERN's research capabilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess knowledge in web application development and have basic experience with relational databases. Familiarity with OpenStack is considered a plus. The position requires skills in Linux server/client and network administration, strong proficiency in Python and Unix Shell scripting, and knowledge of HPC Condor, although this is not mandatory. Familiarity with web development technologies such as HTML, CSS, PHP, and Javascript, as well as frameworks like React and Django, is advantageous. Proficiency in Git and basic SQL knowledge are also required.

Educational Background:
Applicants must have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering or a related field. It is essential that candidates have graduated within the last two years and have not previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract. Those without a university degree or with a PhD are not eligible for this position.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation. This experience should be relevant to the field of Computer Engineering or a closely related area, ensuring that the candidate is well-prepared to take on the responsibilities of the role.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language. This bilingual requirement reflects CERN's diverse working environment and the need for effective communication within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers flexibility with a hybrid working model. The target start date for the position is 01-March-202

• The job reference is HSE-RP-CS-2025-242-GRAE, and the field of work is Software Engineering and IT. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging between 5196 and 5716 Swiss Francs (net of tax), coverage by CERN's comprehensive health scheme for the employee and their family, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. Additionally, employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year and have access to on-the-job and formal training opportunities, as well as in-house language courses.