DevOps/Software Developer within the ALICE experiment team (EP-AID-DA-2024-129-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

Are you a skilled computing engineer or a data acquisition expert with in depth knowledge of large distributed computing systems? Do you have experience in C++ development and operational management of large microservices systems? Do you wish to contribute to the brand-new computing systems of the ALICE experiment? This could be the opportunity for you! Take part!

ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment) is a dedicated heavy ion experiment at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The ALICE Collaboration is studying the physics of strongly interacting matter at extreme energy densities and temperatures. In Run 3+4 (2022-2032) ALICE will operate at a peak Pb-Pb collision rate of 50 kHz, with the data of all collision events read out, calibrated, reconstructed and compressed synchronously with the data taking. To achieve the physics goals, it is essential that the computing and control systems of the experiment operate reliably and deliver an operational performance compatible with the data taking efficiency goals of the experiment.

The selected candidate will join the Experimental Physics (EP) Department which carries out basic research in the field of experimental particle physics in a stimulating scientific atmosphere, standing as an important reference for the European physics community. Within the EP Department you will be part of the ALICE O2/FLP team of the ALICE Detectors & Systems group (EP-AID). The ALICE O2/FLP team is in charge of the First Level Processor (FLP) computing farm, the detector readout chain, the data Quality Control software, the Experiment Control System and a portfolio of operational tools such as monitoring, logging, configuration and bookkeeping.

Functions

As a DevOps/Software Engineer on the ALICE O2/FLP team, your functions will include:

- Manage the portfolio of operational tools used in the FLP computing farm:

• Work on continuous improvements that provide value to the ALICE operations.
• Review the portfolio and establish a modernization plan for implementation during LS3 (2026-2028).
• Support and improve the software release procedures and tools

- Design and develop new features for the different software components under the responsibility of the O2/FLP project.

- Take part in the overall ALICE Experiment Operations:

• Serve as the O2/FLP on-call expert, providing technical assistance to ALICE shift crews.
• Contribute to the operations of the ALICE experiment.

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

Experience:

Experience within a team in the development of large software applications, with a global understating of the requirements for large distributed computing systems;

Extensive experience with modern software development environments, including version control, issue tracking and continuous integration;

Extensive experience with the Linux operating system;

Experience in gathering requirements and providing user support would be an advantage;

Experience with any of the following tools would be an advantage: apache Kafka, Grafana, InfluxDB, Consul, Nomad, Ansible.

Technical competencies:

• Architecture and design of ICT systems: knowledge of data acquisition and control principles;
• Knowledge of system configuration tools: monitoring, configuration and cluster management tools;
• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: modern C++ (knowledge of C++17 and newer versions is an advantage);
• Re-use, refactoring, integration and porting of existing software;
• Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures: git, JIRA, Continuous Integration.

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.
• Demonstrating Flexibility:
  • Adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements;
  • Actively participating in the implementation of new processes and technologies.
• Working in Teams:
  • Cooperating constructively with others in the pursuit of team goals; balancing personal goals with team goals.
• Communicating Effectively:
  • Ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented;
  • Checking to ensure that the message has been well understood.
• Solving Problems:
  • Addressing complex problems by breaking them down into manageable components;
  • Producing workable and timely solutions that meet requirements.

Language skills:

Proficiency in spoken and written English, with the ability to draft technical specifications and scientific reports, as well as deliver oral presentations.

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 09.10.2024 at 23:45 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 during nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-AID-DA-2024-129-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Engineer