DevOps Engineer for Data Management

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 over 2,500 employees and thousands of scientists from around the globe collaborating on various projects, CERN operates in multiple countries, primarily in Europe. The organization is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in particle physics and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration among a diverse range of professionals.

Job Overview:
The position of DevOps Engineer within the CERN IT Storage and Data Management group (IT-SD) is a critical role that focuses on the management and operation of core services used by both LHC and non-LHC experiments. This role is essential for enabling data archival, reconstruction, analysis, and distribution to various archiving and computing facilities worldwide, particularly through the Worldwide LHC Computing Grid. The successful candidate will engage with cutting-edge scientific data management technologies, such as Rucio and FTS, which are pivotal in managing vast amounts of data across numerous data centers globally. The role requires a passion for distributed systems and an interest in the future of computing, especially as it relates to the evolving needs of researchers who rely on supercomputers and AI workflows. The engineer will be responsible for ensuring seamless integration between distributed data systems and remote supercomputers, facilitating efficient data movement and processing.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The DevOps Engineer will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Connecting data to AI factories by building integrations that facilitate easy access to large datasets for next-generation European AI factories and supercomputers.
• Designing and validating a storage federation that allows different data management platforms to communicate effectively, ensuring transparent data access and policy-driven replication.
• Contributing to open-source projects by designing robust new functionalities and committing code, features, and fixes back to the upstream Rucio project.
• Supporting the community by actively participating in the Operations team to maintain infrastructure for EU projects and activities surrounding the Rucio service, which includes troubleshooting incidents and providing user support.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate experience in software development and integration, particularly with Python and scripting languages. Proficiency in Linux administration" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">system administration, configuration, and automation in both bare-metal and container environments (such as Kubernetes) is essential. Familiarity with development tools like Git and modern DevOps practices is also required. The ideal candidate should possess strong problem-solving skills, enjoy working in a collaborative open-source environment, and have a user-focused mindset. A commitment to learning and adapting to new challenges is crucial.

Educational Background:
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computing Engineering or a related field. It is important to note that candidates without a university degree or those with a PhD are not eligible for this position. The educational background should ideally align with the technical requirements of the role, emphasizing a strong foundation in computing and data management.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation. This experience should be relevant to the role of a DevOps Engineer, particularly in software development, system administration, and data management. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to work effectively in teams and contribute to collaborative projects.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learning the basics of the other language. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the diverse CERN community.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The job offers a hybrid work flexibility, allowing for a combination of remote and on-site work. The target start date for this position is November 1, 202

• The role may involve stand-by duty and work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays as required by the organization's needs. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 5266 to 5793 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. Additionally, on-the-job and formal training opportunities, including language classes, are provided.