Scientific Computing Systems Engineer

Paul Scherrer Institut seeks a mid-level Scientific Computing Systems Engineer in Villigen to manage Linux-based infrastructure for the CERN CMS experiment and prepare for future HL-LHC computing needs.

This position acts as the primary systems engineer for the institute’s WLCG Tier-3 cluster, which powers the CERN CMS experiment. The engineer will also help plan and evolve Tier-3 and Tier-2 infrastructure to support the upcoming High-Luminosity LHC era.

Responsibilities

• Manage, maintain, and enhance Linux-based research computing services and underlying infrastructure.
• Provide technical support and engage with the Swiss CMS user community utilizing the Tier-3 infrastructure.
• Work closely with the Swiss National Supercomputing Center (CSCS), which operates the national WLCG Tier-2 center.
• Share operational duties and provide mutual backup support for PSI’s high-performance and high-throughput computing services.

Requirements

• Proven expertise in Linux systems administration within production or research computing settings.
• Hands-on experience with automation and DevOps practices, including configuration management tools like Ansible or Puppet, scripting in Bash and Python, Git workflows, and ideally CI/CD and infrastructure-as-code concepts.
• Ability to monitor, troubleshoot, and debug complex system and software issues in live environments.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with batch systems, distributed computing infrastructure, container technologies, or high-throughput computing environments.
• Knowledge of WLCG infrastructure and services or scientific computing environments.

What the company offers

• Systematic on-the-job training, personal development opportunities, and a strong culture of vocational training.
• Modern employment conditions and on-site infrastructure to support work-life balance.
• Fixed-term position limited to end of March 2029.

About the company

The Paul Scherrer Institut fosters an interdisciplinary, innovative, and dynamic collaborative environment.

• Interdisciplinary collaboration
• Innovative approach
• Dynamic work environment