Process Controls Software Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is at the forefront of scientific research and technological innovation. Established in 1954, CERN has grown to become one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research, employing thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries. The organization operates in multiple countries and is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in particle physics and related fields. CERN's mission is to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe, and it fosters an environment of collaboration and innovation among its diverse workforce.

Job Overview:
The Process Controls Software Engineer position at CERN involves contributing to the development, maintenance, and operational support of cryogenics process control systems. This role is crucial during Long Shutdown 3, where the engineer will support the cryogenic infrastructure of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) accelerator and the ATLAS and CMS detectors. The position requires a blend of software development, hardware installation, and system integration activities. The engineer will work closely with various CERN services and the Cryogenics Operations team to deliver reliable and innovative solutions that support world-leading scientific research. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration with multiple stakeholders to ensure the success of major projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Process Controls Software Engineer include:

• Designing, developing, implementing, and commissioning control systems using automated software production methods based on GitLab CI and CERN control frameworks.
• Reviewing and proposing improvements to process control logic to enhance system efficiency and reliability.
• Participating in the installation and commissioning of control hardware on-site, ensuring that all systems are operational and meet project specifications.
• Maintaining and inserting control system configuration data into CERN's databases, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
• Collaborating with CERN's service providers to resolve technical issues and share best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in Computing or Automation Engineering or a related field. The required qualifications include:

• Proficiency in Python and bash programming, with experience in code refactoring, optimization, and testing.
• Familiarity with relational databases (Oracle), data manipulation, and SQL.
• Knowledge of code versioning systems (Git), issue tracking (Jira), and continuous integration (GitLab CI).
• Basic experience with PLC-based control systems (Siemens, Schneider) is advantageous.
• Strong analytical skills to understand and analyze systems, identify issues, and propose effective solutions.

Educational Background:
A Master's Degree or equivalent relevant experience in Computing Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with a PhD and no more than three years of post-graduation professional experience are also eligible. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of engineering and software development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have between 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience if holding a Master's degree, or up to 3 years of experience if holding a PhD. This experience should be relevant to the field of Computing or Automation Engineering, demonstrating a strong understanding of software development and process control systems.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the other language. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the diverse CERN community and for collaboration with international teams.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers hybrid flexibility. The target start date for this position is September 1, 202

• Candidates must be prepared to work in radiation areas and perform interventions in underground installations. A valid driving license is required, and candidates must obtain medical clearance due to occupational health risks associated with the position. The job reference is TE-CRG-IC-2026-96-GRAP. The compensation includes a monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs (tax-free), 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances.