Hardware Support Engineer

About the role

CERN is seeking a dedicated Hardware Support Engineer to join the Fabric and Communication Systems (FCS) group. This role focuses on the maintenance and support of various server technologies utilized in the openlab heterogeneous architectures testbed. The successful candidate will be responsible for troubleshooting system issues, upgrading existing technologies, and assisting scientific communities with their hardware needs. This position offers the chance to engage with industry partners and participate in workshops while contributing to significant scientific advancements.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee the maintenance of existing server systems, ensuring they operate at peak efficiency through regular upgrades and service checks.
• Provide technical support to scientific communities, addressing inquiries and resolving hardware-related issues in a timely manner.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot system problems to minimize downtime and maintain operational continuity.
• Install and configure new server technologies, facilitating their integration into the openlab heterogeneous architectures testbed.
• Engage regularly with industry partners, gaining exposure to innovative technologies and practices.
• Organize and lead topic-specific workshops to enhance knowledge sharing and collaboration among teams.
• Document system configurations, maintenance activities, and troubleshooting steps for future reference and compliance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and support for ongoing projects and initiatives.

Requirements

• Proven experience with computer systems, including BIOS/UEFI, x86/Arm processor architectures, virtualization, memory management, GPU computing, and various storage drives such as S-ATA, SAS, and NVMe.
• Familiarity with management and monitoring protocols, including but not limited to IPMI/Redfish, SMART, and SNMP.
• Strong background in Linux operating systems and shell scripting, demonstrating proficiency in system administration tasks.
• Experience in programming with Python, showcasing the ability to develop scripts for automation and system management.
• Ability to work effectively within a team environment while also being self-motivated and capable of managing individual tasks.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with a focus on performance optimization and debugging techniques.

Nice to have

• Knowledge of performance profiling and optimization strategies for applications.
• Experience with software configuration management tools, such as Puppet or Ansible, would be beneficial.
• Proficiency in French is an advantage, along with a commitment to improving language skills.
• Familiarity with cloud computing environments and their integration with on-premises systems.

Skills & tools

• Server hardware management and configuration.
• Proficiency in Python programming.
• Shell scripting for automation and system tasks.
• Linux system administration expertise.

Practical notes

• Candidates must hold citizenship from a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• By the application deadline, applicants should have no more than two years of professional experience since graduation in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field, with a maximum qualification of either a Bachelor's or Master's degree.
• Individuals who have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract are not eligible to apply.
• Applicants without a university degree or those holding a PhD will not be considered for this position.
• The job closing date is set for 10 August 2026 at 23:59 CEST.
• The initial contract duration is 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months.
• The role requires a commitment of 40 hours per week and includes a valid driving license as part of the responsibilities.
• Target start date for the position is 1 October 2026.
• Job reference number is IT-FCS-HP-2026-192-GRAE.
• Field of work pertains to Software Engineering and IT, with a benchmark job classification of 200020
• Computing Engineer.

Global Benefits

• A competitive monthly stipend ranging from 5,266 to 5,793 Swiss Francs, tax-free, depending on educational qualifications.
• Entitlement to 30 days of paid leave annually, in addition to two weeks of annual closure.
• Coverage under CERN's comprehensive health insurance plan, which extends to dependents, along with membership in the CERN Pension Fund.
• Eligibility for family, child, and infant allowances based on individual circumstances.
• A relocation package that includes installation grants and travel expenses, tailored to personal situations.
• Opportunity for contract extension up to 36 months, along with access to both on-the-job and formal training, including language classes.

Overview of CERN

CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is at the forefront of scientific exploration and technological innovation. Our work unites physicists and a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative backgrounds. We create an environment that fosters collaboration and innovation, addressing the challenges of modern research. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is a core value, ensuring that every contribution is valued and that we work together towards a common goal. If you are eager to contribute to research and be part of a community that values curiosity and skill, CERN is the ideal place for you to advance your career. For more information, visit our careers page at careers.cern.