System Engineer

The IC Faculty at EPFL is at the heart of technological developments in computing and communication, essential fields for innovation and scientific progress. As an IT support team, we play a crucial role in enabling the integration of advanced technologies into educational and research practices. We work closely with teachers and researchers to facilitate technological innovation and encourage the emergence of new ideas, thus helping to keep EPFL at the forefront of global academic excellence.

• Administer, maintain and develop Kubernetes clusters under Rancher to ensure their availability, security and performance.
• Deploy, configure and maintain applications on Kubernetes using Helm charts and Argo CD, applying GitOps principles and ensuring their full lifecycle.
• Administer and maintain GitLab repositories, CI/CD pipelines and Harbor container registries necessary for application development, integration and deployment.
• Design, deploy and maintain the infrastructures required for research services and scientific applications.
• Install, operate and maintain research platforms, including Solr clusters, REDCap and associated services.
• Ensure availability, performance, system security (notably via Uyuni) as well as monitoring of hosted platforms and services.
• Participate in deployment automation and continuous improvement of infrastructures according to Infrastructure as Code, GitOps and CI/CD principles.
• Produce, maintain and develop technical documentation of infrastructures, procedures and architectures.
• Participate in infrastructure evolution projects, from design to production deployment and operation.
• Provide IT technical support, manage the full lifecycle of solutions and offer close support to research laboratories, teaching and administrative units.
• Ensure the integrity of the information system under the responsibility of IC-IT.
• Guarantee data performance, availability and security.
• Monitor and maintain backup infrastructures, as well as the proper execution of backups.
• Handle tickets, resolve incidents and requests within the activity domain, and ensure administrative follow-up.
• Take budgetary and financial constraints into account when designing and implementing solutions.
• Participate in projects, from needs analysis to realisation, production deployment and follow-up.
• Perform other occasional tasks.

• Monitor technical developments and propose improvements or new services.
• Propose process improvements and automate tasks that need to be automated.
• Cover for colleagues within the service.
• Develop professional and personal skills.
• Participate in the training of apprentices and interns.

• Higher education in computer science (HES, federal diploma, EPF) or equivalent training.

• Strong service orientation, user focus and ability to manage priorities.
• Autonomy, initiative and ability to work effectively within a collaborative team.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, listening skills and ease in communication with technical and non-technical interlocutors.
• Motivation to build, improve and develop IT services within an institution of excellence.
• Excellent knowledge of IT infrastructures, networks and systems.
• Solid knowledge of main operating systems: Linux, macOS and Windows.
• Excellent command of French (level C1) and very good knowledge of English (level B2 to C1).
• Good understanding of cybersecurity issues and associated best practices.
• Analytical mind and ability to conduct investigations, from diagnosis to implementation of technical solutions.

• Research and innovation environment: EPFL is one of the most prestigious research institutions in Europe, offering a stimulating and innovative environment conducive to innovation and discovery.
• State-of-the-art infrastructure: With access to cutting-edge facilities and equipment, employees can work in a modern and well-equipped environment.
• International community: EPFL attracts students, researchers and professionals from around the world, fostering a dynamic and multicultural working environment.
• Global reputation: Working at EPFL means being part of an institution recognised worldwide for its academic excellence, which can enrich your professional profile.
• Commitment to sustainability: EPFL is committed to sustainable development, offering an environment conducive to those wishing to contribute positively to this global challenge.

Starting date: as soon as possible

Occupation rate: 100%

Contract type: permanent contract

Reference: 2399