Introduction

Are you a Computing Engineer with experience and knowledge of large, distributed software frameworks and services? Do you have analytical skills allowing you to find the means for optimizing the efficiency of very complex systems? Would you like to contribute to upgrading, developing, maintaining and operating one of the largest particle-physics experiments in the world? Then, take part !

You will join:

• Experimental Physics Department (EP), which carries out basic research in the field of experimental physics. It aims to provide a stimulating scientific atmosphere and remains an important reference centre for the European physics community. It contributes to the education and training of young scientists.
• ATLAS Trigger and Data Acquisition Group (ADT), which has major responsibilities in the ATLAS trigger and data acquisition system. Its activities span every aspect from development and operation of custom trigger hardware to high-level physics selection algorithms via data conveyance and control infrastructures.
• CERN Data Acquisition (DQ) Section of the ATLAS experiment, which plays a leading role in developing, installing, commissioning, maintaining, operating and upgrading the DAQ system for the overall detector. This position is specifically in the Control and Configuration area of the DAQ system.

Functions

As Computing Engineer in the EP-ADT-DQ Section, you will:

• Take a major role in building a solution to orchestrate the Event Filter computing farm of the DAQ system. This includes the identification of the key functional requirements for the orchestrator and its integration into the already existing DAQ framework. The solution shall be based on Kubernetes, an open-source system for automating the deployment, scaling, and management of containerized applications.
• Participate in the specification, design and implementation of the next generation of software for the Phase-II Upgrade. Working with the ATLAS DAQ team, you will follow the requirement evolution and keep up to date with emerging software technologies.
• Take responsibility in operating, maintaining and enhancing the existing software services and frameworks.
• Provide support and guidance to the DAQ users in the Control and Configuration area.
• Be part of a team of DAQ experts that assures the smooth and continuous functioning of the DAQ system during ATLAS operations. Act as one of the DAQ on-call experts.

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of computing or a related field.

Experience:

• Strong capability to develop and deploy software.
• Proven experience in the use of tools and methods that support all phases of the software lifecycle, in particular design, coding, testing and optimization of software performance.
• Extensive experience in the operation, maintenance and debugging of large, distributed software services.
• Experience in working with software containers and administrating and operating a Kubernetes cluster would be considered a plus.
• Experience in large distributed DAQ systems for High-Energy Physics experiments would be beneficial.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures: (Including integration, build and test): code repositories (GIT), CI/CD frameworks.
• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: object-oriented and parallel programming, C++, Java, Linux operating system, scripting languages (Python/shell). Knowledge of Kubernetes, application containers and the Go programming language would be beneficial.
• Re-use, refactoring, integration and porting of existing software: strong capability in adapting software services and platforms to diverse environments.
• Testing, diagnosing and optimization of software: proven record of end-to-end performance optimization.
• Architecture and design of ICT systems: (data acquisition systems, distributed applications and services): documented experience in designing, implementing and testing complex, distributed software services.

Behavioural competencies:

• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting; taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen; demonstrating a receptive approach to feedback; being open to criticism and reconsidering position accordingly.
• Demonstrating flexibility: actively participating in the implementation of new processes and technologies; demonstrating openness to new ideas and situations; readily absorbing new techniques and working practices; proposing new or improved ways of working.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information; seeking feedback from colleagues and other stakeholders about ways of increasing competence.
• Solving problems: addressing complex problems by breaking them down into manageable components; adopting a pragmatic approach; understanding the value of adopting generic rather than 'gold -plated' technical solutions; identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.
• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships; debating at the table and engaging in constructive confrontation of ideas; being ready to concede in the interest of the team; seeking agreement.

Language skills:

Ability to communicate in spoken and written English is mandatory, including the ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in English. Ability to understand and speak French in professional contexts would be an advantage, or the willingness to acquire it.

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.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 12 midday CET on 19.04.2022

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.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Interventions in underground installations.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-ADT-DQ-2022-30-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Engineer