Software Engineer

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

• It is located 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 and engineers from around the world. The organization operates in multiple countries, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration to push the frontiers of science and technology. CERN's mission is to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe, and it is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce, ensuring that every contribution is valued and that a wide range of perspectives are represented in its teams.

Job Overview:
The Software Engineer position at CERN involves joining a team of experienced software engineers to work on a cutting-edge big data processing and analysis platform. This platform aims to extend UCAP, CERN's real-time stream processing platform, and integrate it with NXCALS, a petabyte-scale offline data storage and analysis system. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and evolving the Data Processing Platform (DPP), transforming the existing proof-of-concept into a full-scale, production-ready solution that meets stakeholder requirements. This role requires a strong background in backend software development, with a focus on distributed systems and microservice architecture. The engineer will collaborate closely with accelerator operation and equipment specialists to create user-friendly libraries, APIs, and configuration facilities that enable efficient development and deployment of both traditional and machine learning algorithms written in Python or Java.

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

• Designing and implementing the Data Processing Platform (DPP) to meet stakeholder requirements.
• Transforming the existing proof-of-concept into a full-scale, production-ready solution.
• Researching, designing, and implementing adaptations of the UCAP system to the DPP platform.
• Migrating UCAP converters into DPP function-based services.
• Addressing architectural, integration, and migration challenges to ensure compatibility with the new platform.
• Collaborating with accelerator operation and equipment specialists to design tailored libraries, APIs, and configuration facilities.
• Enabling the development and deployment of algorithms in Python or Java.
• Ensuring the platform supports both offline and online data analysis and processing.
• Participating in code reviews and contributing to the continuous improvement of the software development process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional background in Software Engineering or a closely related field. The eligibility criteria 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. A good understanding of distributed systems and microservice architecture is essential, along with exposure to serverless concepts and frameworks such as Knative or OpenFaaS. Knowledge of data processing and streaming frameworks like Apache Kafka and Apache Spark is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in Software Engineering or a related field, or a PhD in a relevant discipline. Candidates should have completed their degree with a strong academic record and possess the necessary technical skills to excel in software development and data processing.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position includes 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience for candidates with a Master's degree, or up to 3 years of post-graduation experience for those with a PhD. Candidates should have hands-on experience in backend software development, particularly in designing and implementing complex systems, and should be familiar with the latest technologies and frameworks in the field.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Candidates are also expected to have a commitment to learn French, which is considered a valuable asset in the workplace. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

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 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 BE-CSS-DSP-2026-23-GRAP. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year and additional benefits such as comprehensive health insurance, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.