About the opportunity
The University of Vienna is seeking a Head of IT Department for ACOnet & Vienna Internet eXchange within its Central Informatics Service. This key leadership role involves managing a team of approximately 35 professionals responsible for reliable operations and strategic development of critical infrastructure, including Austria’s national academic network, the national internet exchange, and the technical core of the national .at domain registry. The position starts on December 1, 2026, and is initially fixed for one year with the option of a permanent contract.
Salary and benefits
- Flexible work-life balance through flextime and home office arrangements
- Secure employment at a long-standing traditional institution founded in 1365
- International networking opportunities with leading working groups and representative bodies like GÉANT, Euro-IX, and RIPE
- Professional and personal development through diverse training programs
- Central location with excellent public transport connections and corporate benefits
Who can apply?
- Relevant completed university degree and at least 2 years of relevant IT professional experience, OR at least 7 years of relevant IT practice, including at least 4 years in a comparable role
- Demonstrated experience in leading larger IT teams, ideally in an agile or university environment, with strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Deep understanding of network and internet infrastructures
- Experience with IT security standards (ISO 27001) and legal requirements from the NIS Act regarding critical infrastructure is a strong plus
- Fluent proficiency in both German and English, with confident interaction capabilities in national and international committees
Required documents
- Curriculum vitae
- Short motivation letter
- Graduation certificate of qualifications such as a degree or diploma
When to apply
- Application deadline is November 6, 2026
How to apply
- Prepare your CV, motivation letter, and qualification certificates
- Submit your application through the official job portal via the apply button
Additional information
- Position ID: 6230
- Classification: Collective Bargaining Agreement §54 VwGr. IVb with a monthly minimum gross salary of €3,776.10 on a full-time basis, with potential for overpayment based on qualifications and experience
- Working hours: 40.00 hours per week
- Contact for content questions: Ulf Busch at ulf.busch@univie.ac.at
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for experienced IT leaders with a strong background in network operations, internet exchange points, or national research networks.
- Well-suited for professionals looking to make a high-level strategic impact on Austria's digital scientific infrastructure.
- Strong fit for candidates seeking international stakeholder management and engagement within major European technical communities.
What should you think carefully about?
- The initial contract is fixed for one year before an option for a permanent transition, which requires navigating a probationary leadership phase.
- The role requires regular international travel to represent ACOnet in global and European technical assemblies.
- Bilingual proficiency in both German and English is mandatory for daily communications and committee representation.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role offers senior IT professionals an opportunity to direct critical national internet infrastructure while enhancing their executive leadership credentials within a major academic institution.
Our take
Experienced technical managers with a background in critical infrastructure and team leadership should apply before the November deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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