IT Specialist – Linux and Automation

About the role

The European Southern Observatory (ESO) IT Department is looking for an IT Specialist focused on Linux and automation to support its observatory sites in Chile. You will work in an international environment, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the IT infrastructure that underpins world‑leading astronomy projects.

Key responsibilities

• Support ESO operational environment by implementing and adapting IT infrastructure for observatory control systems.
• Guide daily operations of hypervisors, Linux‑based servers and approved cloud environments using standardized tools.
• Maintain and operate IT infrastructure for control‑systems and operations maintenance teams on site.
• Monitor system health, automate handling of recurring alerts and routine remediation tasks.
• Develop, maintain and troubleshoot scripts to improve operational efficiency.
• Deploy and operate applications on Linux‑based and container platforms according to established standards.
• Oversee contractors, lead complex troubleshooting and design remediation measures within architectural guidelines.

Required profile

• University degree in Computer Science or equivalent.
• Two‑year fixed‑term contract, subject to medical clearance and successful probation, with possible extension.
• Experience working in a multi‑national, collaborative IT environment is preferred.

Required skills

• Linux operating systems
• Hypervisor technologies
• Cloud environment management
• Scripting for automation (e.g., Bash, Python)
• Container platforms (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)