Software Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With a mission to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's commitment to diversity and inclusion is a core value, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances innovation and discovery.

Job Overview:
The Software Engineer position at CERN involves engaging in the development, enhancement, and maintenance of C++ based software solutions specifically designed for a System on Chip (SoC) platform. The role requires close interaction with stakeholders to accurately capture and implement their requirements, ensuring that the software meets the operational needs of controlling and monitoring power converters. The engineer will be responsible for developing and integrating software for both Linux and bare-metal cores on the AMD Zynq UltraScale+ SoC platform. Additionally, the position includes participation in software validation processes using hardware-in-the-loop digital twins, as well as commissioning real power converters that range from a few kilowatts to tens of megawatts. The engineer will also contribute to the continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) processes and automated testing frameworks, while having the opportunity to supervise students, thereby contributing to the educational mission of CERN.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Enhance and maintain C++ software that controls and monitors power converters, ensuring high performance and reliability.
• Develop and integrate software solutions for Linux and bare-metal cores on the AMD Zynq UltraScale+ SoC platform.
• Participate in software validation using hardware-in-the-loop digital twins to ensure software functionality and performance.
• Commission real power converters, working with systems that range from a few kilowatts to tens of megawatts.
• Contribute to the CI/CD and automated testing framework to streamline software development processes.
• Supervise and mentor students, providing guidance and support in their projects and learning experiences.
• Collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders to gather requirements and feedback, ensuring that software solutions align with operational needs.

Required Qualifications:

• Proficiency in C++, ideally with experience in the latest standard C++2
• Familiarity with Linux operating systems and development environments.
• Knowledge of version control systems such as git and gitlab, as well as CI/CD practices.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively interact with colleagues and stakeholders.
• A basic understanding of System on Chips (SoC) and control theory is advantageous but not mandatory.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a professional background in Software or Electronics Engineering or a related field. The educational requirements include either a Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. Additionally, candidates must not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a professional background in software or electronics engineering, with specific experience levels depending on their educational qualifications. Candidates with a Master's degree should have between 2 to 6 years of relevant professional experience, while those with a PhD should have no more than 3 years of post-graduation experience. This ensures that the candidate has sufficient practical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the team and projects at CERN.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered beneficial for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 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 flexibility with a hybrid working model. The target start date for this position is March 1, 202

• The role may involve stand-by duty as required by the needs of the organization. The job reference for this position is SY-EPC-CCS-2025-181-GRAP. Compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6287 to 6911 Swiss Francs (net of tax), coverage by CERN's comprehensive health scheme for the employee and their family, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year and will have access to on-the-job training, formal training at CERN, and in-house language courses.