At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Introduction

Are you a full stack developer with experience in distributed computing, high performance I/O programming, good knowledge of the Linux operating system and an excellent level of proficiency in C++? Then seize the opportunity and join the Detector Technology group operating at the heart of CERN Experimental Physics Department. Within our team, you will contribute to the design, development, construction and testing of challenging data acquisition systems for physics experiments. Take part!

You will join:

• The Experimental Physics (EP) Department carries out basic research in the field of experimental particle physics in a stimulating scientific atmosphere, standing as an important reference for the European physics community. It also contributes to the education and training of young scientists.
• The Detector Technologies (DT) group is in charge of the development, construction, operation and maintenance of particle detectors and their technical infrastructure.
• The Detector Interface section provides solutions for infrastructure and detector control and safety systems, as well as data acquisition systems for physics experiments. The particularity of the section is that it combines expertise in hardware (sensors, instrumentation and readout, electro-mechanical support, cabling, etc.), control systems (PLC and/or FPGA based), information and communication technologies (OS, networking, distributed/parallel programming, SCADA systems, web services), thus being able to provide complete solutions, from the field to the user interfaces, including operations and support.

Functions

As a full stack developer in the Detector Interface (DI) Section you will initially contribute to and then take responsibility for the development of data acquisition systems for physics experiments in collaboration with other experts from the section and the experiments. In particular, you will:

• Design distributed data acquisition systems with variable performance and scale requirements;
• Develop robust, efficient and quasi real-time software for data movement (I/O intensive) and data selection (computing intensive).
• Develop modular and scalable software for control, monitoring and configuration, including user interfaces and web services facilitating the experiment’s operation and remote monitoring.
• Select and deploy appropriate hardware for computing nodes, switched networks, data storage, including their configuration management and monitoring.
• Support experiments during the commissioning and operation phases.
• Supervise and guide students and/or junior colleagues.

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of information technologies, physics or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience of C++ code design & development for parallel and distributed systems.
• Demonstrated experience in the use, administration and tuning of Linux based multi core and multi socket systems.
• Demonstrated experience in the use and tuning of communication protocols and software.
• Basic experience in the use of data base technologies.

Experience in the following domains would be an asset:

• Develop and set up web services;
• Understand and debug firmware;
• Develop user interfaces.

Technical competencies:

• Simulation, design and development of trigger, data acquisition chains.
• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: c++ mandatory.
• Knowledge of operating systems: linux mandatory.
• Knowledge of communication technologies and protocols.
• Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures.

Behavioural competencies:

• Demonstrating flexibility: actively participating in the implementation of new processes and technologies, adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements; being willing to work on different projects simultaneously.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information; sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer; thinking "out of the box" and proposing fresh ideas, insights and methodologies.
• Managing self: maintaining a positive outlook even in difficult situations; demonstrating resilience and persistence in response to setbacks and adversity; remaining objective, focussed and productive in a stressful environment; focusing on solutions rather than problems; working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Working in teams: contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues; supporting and acting in accordance with team decisions; accepting joint responsibility for team successes and shortcomings; building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.

Language skills:

• English: ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports, as well as to make oral presentations.
• French: ability to understand and speak French in professional contexts is an asset; otherwise, the willingness to invest time in learning French is mandatory.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States. (https://home.cern/about/member-states)

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 18.10.2018.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

These functions require:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence is required.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-DT-DI-2018-99-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Engineer

Please make sure you have all the documents needed to hand as you start your application, as once it is submitted, you will not be able to upload any documents or edit your application further