Introduction

Are you an experienced Computer Engineer with a passion for computing hardware and emerging technologies? The ATLAS Data-Acquisition team operates and maintains a state-of-the-art heterogeneous computing infrastructure with in-house developed high-performance software. Join the unique challenge of managing, evolving and upgrading all aspects of the distributed data-conveyance components. Make use of your skills to meet the demanding performance and efficiency requirements of 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 ReadOut and DataFlow areas of the DAQ system.

Functions

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

• Take part in the operation and maintenance of the ReadOut and DataFlow hardware and software infrastructures. This involves the active follow-up of operational problems and requirements, including performance and reliability reach.
• Contribute to the hardware upkeep, replacement and upgrade of DAQ components. This involves hardware evaluation and testing, and fostering contacts with major IT manufacturers. You will participate in the installation and (de-) commissioning of large computing infrastructures.
• Take on responsibilities in ATLAS data-acquisition software, in particular concerning the specification, design and implementation of the next-generation data-conveyance infrastructure. This requires selecting and introducing designs and software technologies capable of meeting current and future performance requirements.
• Participate in a team of DAQ experts that assures the smooth functioning of the DAQ system 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and supports its integration with other ATLAS sub-systems. 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:

• Experience with multi-threading, parallel and networking programming techniques in C++, on distributed systems.
• Experience in the use of tools and methods that support all phases of the software development lifecycle on a Linux OS. In particular design, coding, testing and optimization of software performance.
• Practical knowledge of computing hardware and architectures, including storage and networking equipment.
• Experience in the operation of large and distributed DAQ systems and their data-conveyance sub-systems.
• Experience in the context of a large-scale computing organisation or High-Energy Physics experiment would provide a distinct advantage.

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: parallel and distributed programming, C++, Linux operating system, scripting languages (Python/shell).
• Re-use, refactoring, integration and porting of existing software.
• Testing, diagnosing and optimization of software: proven record of end-to-end performance optimization, in particular for high-throughput applications.
• Architecture and design of ICT systems: (data acquisition systems, distributed applications and services): design, simulation, implementation, testing and operation of complex, distributed computing systems.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: defining clear objectives, milestones and deliverables before initiating work/ project; following through on new ideas and innovations; planning and implementing application.
• 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:

Spoken and written English, with the ability to draw-up technical specifications and scientific reports and to make oral presentations. The ability to understand and speak French in professional contexts would be an advantage.

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  05.08.2022 at 12:00 (mid-day) CET.

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-2022-72-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Engineer