Software Engineer for Real-Time Software Development

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution established in 195

• It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics. CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world, representing more than 100 nationalities. The organization operates in multiple countries and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.

Job Overview:
The position of Software Engineer for Real-Time Software Development at CERN involves contributing to the renovation and development of real-time software for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS), and AWAKE Beam Position Monitors (BPMs). The role focuses on re-engineering existing codebases and communication protocols, as well as developing new solutions to integrate System-on-Chip (SoC)-based platforms into the accelerator control system. The engineer will be responsible for improving long-term maintainability of the software, developing new processing routines, and creating software for testing and validation. This position is crucial for ensuring the successful integration of revised legacy and new BPM systems into the LHC feedbacks, as well as supporting commissioning efforts once the software is deployed.

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

• Re-engineering and refactoring low-level C++ code across four existing systems to homogenize codebases and enhance maintainability.
• Contributing to the development of new AWAKE BPM processing routines.
• Conceiving, designing, and developing software for testing and validation, including hardware-in-the-loop test benches.
• Qualifying the integration of revised legacy and new SoC-based BPM systems into the LHC feedback systems.
• Developing new Python tools and graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for experts.
• Porting existing C++ command line tools to Debian.
• Supporting teams during the commissioning of the developed software once it is deployed in the accelerator control system.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have hands-on experience in low-level real-time software development using C/C++. Additionally, experience in GUI development and data analysis with Python is required. Familiarity with unit testing and continuous integration is considered an advantage, as is experience using tools such as code assistants, particularly in the domain of code refactoring and continuous integration. A good understanding of Object-Oriented Programming principles is essential, along with spoken and written proficiency in English and a commitment to learning French.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Software Engineering or a related field. Applicants must have graduated within the last two years and should not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract. Candidates without a university degree or those holding a PhD are not eligible for this position.

Experience:
The position requires a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in Software Engineering or a related field. This experience should be relevant to the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly in low-level real-time software development and GUI development.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered beneficial for integration into the workplace and community.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with a possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the position is fully onsite at CERN in Geneva. The target start date for the role is May 1, 202

• The job reference for this position is SY-BI-SW-2026-47-GRAE. Compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 5266 to 5793 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.