Data Acquisition Engineer (EP-LBC-2022-83-LD)

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. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Job Description

Introduction

Do you want to work on the largest operating DAQ system in the world?

We are looking for an engineer who will join a small team of engineers, technicians and applied physicists in the LHCb computing group (LBC) in the Experimental Physics (EP) department.

You will be in charge of the data-collection at more than 40 Terabits/s. If you know about high-speed networks, enjoy system-level programming and are comfortable with working in a fast-moving real-time environment, then this might be the right challenge for you.

Functions

You will need excellent knowledge of C, C++ and Linux system programming and at least one modern high-speed network technology. You will work with cutting-edge server and networking equipment and use large software frameworks to build and operate processes which move many terabytes of data every second reliably and efficiently, to maximize the physics potential of the LHCb detector.

 You will be responsible for

• Operation and maintenance (preventive and corrective) of the LHCb Data Acquisition, in particular the “event-builder”
• Development of application software in the LHCb Online system
• Testing, diagnosing and optimization of software in the LHCb Dataflow

Qualifications

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

Experience:

• Proven experience in the design, validation and operation of high-speed data acquisition systems for large scientific instruments
• Demonstrated experience in the use, adaptation and extension of large, complex software frameworks to build robust applications in a (soft) real-time environment
• Knowledge of industrial control-systems and integration of software applications into them
• Knowledge of monitoring and debugging tools

Technical competencies:

• Operation and maintenance of networks: iP based networks, InfiniBand networks
• Development of system software (drivers, system configuration and monitoring, etc.): for the Linux OS
• Development of application software: using HEP C++ frameworks, including networking stacks such as RoCEv2, InfiniBand, TCP/IP
• Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures: gitlab, Jira, CI/CD

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Solving problems: adopting a pragmatic approach; understanding the value of adopting generic rather than 'gold -plated' technical solutions; anticipating obstacles; assessing alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan.
• Working in teams: contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues.
• Demonstrating flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in at least one of the two languages.

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 15.09.2022 at 12:00 (mid-day) CET.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (4 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.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-LBC-2022-83-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Engineer