System Administrator (BE-CSS-ISA-2026-56-LD)

Overview

Join CERN as a Linux System Administrator and manage server hardware in the accelerator data centre.

You have:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Computer Science or a related field.
• Knowledge of the Linux operating system and experience with its administration.
• Experience in the operation of computing infrastructures in a data centre environment.
• Experience of installation and management of commercial server platforms.
• Experience of configuration management tools such as Ansible, Puppet, or similar.
• Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Company Description

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.

Job Description

Introduction:

As a skilled and experienced Linux System Administrator managing critical server hardware in CERN’s accelerator data centre from procurement to installation, configuration and operation, you will contribute to the unique challenge of making CERN’s particle accelerators function in an efficient and robust manner. You will join the Controls Software & Services group, working on the computing infrastructure needed to run the largest particle physics laboratory in the world.

The 24/7 availability of core control system services is critical to the operation of CERN’s particle accelerators, enabling the organization to fulfil its central mission. Our team helps make this a success through the development, operation and evolution of the computing infrastructure in data centres and control rooms used to run the accelerator facilities.

You will have the opportunity to join a passionate system administration team and influence the evolution of this complex and challenging infrastructure, imprinting your remarkable engineering skills on mission-critical solutions for CERN.

More information here.

Functions:

• System administration tasks for the Linux computers connected to the accelerator control system (control room consoles, data centre servers, real-time embedded platforms and virtual machines).
• Investigation, diagnosis, and resolution of operational problems in collaboration with end-users ranging from equipment specialists to operations teams.
• Management of data centre infrastructure, including servers, racks and their relationships with networking, powering and cooling.
• Management of desktop computers in control rooms and technical buildings.
• Management of networked data-storage systems, ensuring that they are effectively backed up.
• Planning and coordination of annual installation work and replacement of obsolete equipment, in collaboration with other members of the system administration team.
• Close collaboration with engineers from the IT Department responsible for the general CERN IT infrastructure.
• Participation in the definition of hardware specifications for server and desktop computers as part of their procurement processes.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Computer Science or a related field.

Experience:

• Knowledge of the Linux operating system and experience with its administration.
• Experience in the operation of computing infrastructures in a data centre environment.
• Experience of installation and management of commercial server platforms.
• Experience of configuration management tools such as Ansible, Puppet, or similar and a version control system such as Git would be advantageous.

Technical competencies:

• Installation, operation and maintenance (preventive and corrective) of computing systems.
• Knowledge of operating systems: specifically Linux.
• Operation and maintenance (preventive and corrective) of storage systems.
• Operation and maintenance of networks.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Learning and Sharing Knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Additional Information

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 21.06.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions:

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

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: BE-CSS-ISA-2026-56-LD

Field of work: Software Engineering and IT

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Technical Engineer

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern

Apply now

Potential interview questions

Added 1 month ago - Updated 25 days ago - Source: careers.cern