Distributed Storage Engineer (IT-SD-GSS-2026-96-LD)

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, the Distributed Storage Engineer will work on evolving the data storage systems used at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and its international partners. CERN is renowned for its groundbreaking work in particle physics and the birthplace of the World Wide Web. The role involves contributing to the design, evolution, and operation of large-scale, distributed critical storage services for the CERN cloud and computing infrastructures. The main day-to-day responsibilities include managing and operating distributed disk storage, block, object, and filesystem services using open-source technologies like Ceph. This involves troubleshooting in a distributed Linux-based environment, optimizing storage architectures, and ensuring high availability and performance. The engineer will also contribute to the evolution of storage service architecture, integrate and maintain distributed storage systems, and participate in change management, incident response, and user support. Additionally, the role involves liaising with key stakeholders and contributing to documentation, development, and automation of storage services. To qualify, candidates must have a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in Computer Science or a related field. Essential requirements include a deep understanding of Linux operating system performance, tuning, and administration, as well as a strong grasp of distributed storage and filesystem architectures. Experience in C++ software development, particularly with distributed storage systems, is crucial. Strong collaboration and communication skills are also necessary to work effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Proficiency in spoken and written English is required, with a commitment to learning French. Nice-to-have skills include good knowledge of scripting languages like Python and shell, as well as technical competencies in the design and development of storage systems and application software. Behavioural competencies such as achieving results, demonstrating flexibility, solving problems, working in teams, and learning and sharing knowledge are also valued. The role offers opportunities to engage with international partners, participate in conferences, and work on inspiring projects involving new technologies like storage for HPC and AI/ML. The position is based in a hybrid work environment with a competitive salary, 30 days of paid leave per year, and comprehensive benefits. What the role asks for: - Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Computer Science or a related field. - Deep understanding of Linux operating system performance, tuning and administration. - Deep understanding of architecture of distributed storage and filesystems (e.g. NFS, CephFS). - Demonstrated experience in C++ software development of distributed storage systems (preferably, but not necessarily, with Ceph source code). - Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French. - Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with multiple cross-functional teams, users and partners. - Good knowledge of scripting languages (python, shell) (nice-to-have).