Network Engineer (IT-CS-NE-2024-121-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. 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

The Communication Systems (CS) Group in CERN’s Information Technology (IT) Department is responsible for high-performance networks supporting CERN’s accelerators, experiments and physics programme. These networks include a mission-critical network for the accelerator infrastructure, two high-capacity datacentre networks with multiple high-bandwidth links to GÉANT, ESnet and our international partners, together with a campus network including a controller-based Wi-Fi system with over 5,000 access points supporting up to 10,000 simultaneous devices and fully integrated with eduroam.

Do you have the networking engineering experience to help us develop these networks to meet our future challenges? We are particularly keen to hear from people with experience in designing and operating Wi-Fi infrastructures.

Functions

As a Computing Engineer in the Communication Systems Group within the IT Department, you will:

• participate in the operation and development of CERN’s network infrastructures;
• implement or propose developments leading to simplified and scalable operation of the networks;
• interpret users’ needs, design suitable connectivity solutions and oversee their proper implementation;
• provide expert advice for debugging and troubleshooting complex problems;
• follow-up technical issues and feature requests with equipment vendors, ensuring CERN’s interests and needs are adequately met.

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

Experience:

The experience required for this post is:

• Proven experience designing and operating campus or data centre networks at scale; experience designing and managing wireless networks at scale for both low- and high-density areas would be a significant advantage;
• Experience debugging and troubleshooting networking issues, from the physical layer to routing protocols running on equipment and including, if relevant, experience troubleshooting Wi-Fi related radio-frequency issues;
• Experience in maintaining regular interactions and relationships with manufacturers;
• Experience in software development and knowledge of scripting languages (i.e. Python or Perl) would be a plus.

Technical competencies:

• Administration of networks
• Knowledge of communication technologies and protocols
• Design of data networks 
• Knowledge of deployment and maintenance of radio frequency systems

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind Delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations
• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships Understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information
• Managing self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen Remaining objective, focussed and productive in a stressful environment; focusing on solutions rather than problems
• Communicating effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented Delivering presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusting style and content to the audience; responding calmly and confidently to questions
• Solving problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them

Language skills:

Spoken and written English: ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in English. The willingness to learn French 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.

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.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 15.09.2024.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: IT-CS-NE-2024-121-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Engineer