DevOps / Cloud Engineer – Earth Observation & Big Data

The Environmental Intelligence Unit at VITO develops and operates innovative Earth observation systems that help address major societal and economic challenges facing our planet.

Our projects focus on:

• Satellite data distribution and processing

• On-demand image processing on scalable cloud platforms

• Big Data analytics for extracting insights from satellite and airborne data (UAVs, drones)

As these datasets are rapidly growing from terabytes to petabytes, we are looking to strengthen our team with a DevOps / Cloud Engineer who thrives in complex, high-performance cloud environments and supports both operational and research-driven projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide support for both DevOps operations and project-based challenges

• Take ownership of the operational infrastructure together with the team

• Resolve internal tickets with a focus on Configuration as Code (CaC) and Infrastructure as Code (IaC)

• Deploy, maintain and support new components in the software stack and in public cloud environments

• Analyze complex issues using monitoring tools, logging systems, and metrics

• Proactively identify and implement efficiency improvements

• Gradually take full ownership of specific components within the software ecosystem

• Assess issues accurately and escalate internally or externally when needed

• Implement and maintain cloud security best practices

• Collaborate closely with IT architects, engineers, and research teams

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Applied Computer Science, Industrial Engineering (ICT specialization), Computer Science or equivalent

• Experience in Agile and/or DevOps environments

• Strong background in Linux systems (CentOS, Red Hat, AlmaLinux)

• Experience with cloud and virtualization technologies (AWS, Docker, VMware, OpenStack)

• Hands-on experience with CI/CD pipelines (e.g. Jenkins) and Automation & configuration tools (Terraform, Puppet, Packer)

• Experience with Kubernetes and Helm charts

• Knowledge of cloud cybersecurity best practices

• Experience in distributed data processing (Apache Spark, Dask) is a plus

• Fluent in Dutch and English

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset

• Team player with excellent communication skills

• Proactive, flexible, and service-oriented attitude

• Self-organized and able to prioritize in complex environments

• Comfortable working in a fast-evolving IT and Earth observation domain

Offer

Why Join VITO?

• Work with cutting-edge technologies in Earth observation, AI, and Big Data

• Make a real impact on sustainability, climate, and global challenges

• Join an organization with a strong international reputation in applied research

What We Offer

• Activity-based working model with flexibility: Main location: Mol (Belgium) with remote work or satellite offices possible (Antwerp-Berchem, Genk, Leuven, Ghent, Ostend)

• Competitive salary package including Benefits, allowances, insurances and flexible vacation package

• Continuous learning opportunities with access to training and latest technologies

• A collaborative and innovative environment within a top-tier research organization

Ready to Make an Impact?

Do you want to work with innovative cloud technologies, satellite data, and AI to shape a more sustainable future?

👉 Apply now and join VITO’s mission to turn data into real-world impact.

First interviews are planned for the second half of August 2026.