System Administrator (BE-CSS-ISA-2026-56-LD)
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. This role requires a skilled and experienced Linux System Administrator managing critical server hardware in CERN’s accelerator data centre.
Responsibilities
* 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
* 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.
* 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.
* Structured and organised approach towards work; setting priorities and planning tasks with results in mind.
* Effective communication and persuasive writing.
* Teamwork and collaboration skills.
* Flexibility and adaptability to shifting priorities and requirements.
* Continuous learning and knowledge sharing.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.
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
Benefits
* A competitive tax‑free salary, 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 plus eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.
EEO
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.
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