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 over 2,500 employees and thousands of scientists from around the globe, CERN operates in 23 member states and collaborates with numerous other countries. The organization is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, particularly in the field of particle physics, and fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration among a diverse range of professionals.

Job Overview:
The Software Engineer position is part of the Machine Protection and Electrical Integrity group at CERN, focusing on the upgrade of the Beam Interlock System (BIS) and Safe Machine Parameters system (SMP). These systems are crucial for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the entire accelerator chain. The role involves working on a significant overhaul of both systems, which includes enhancing their components and software elements such as data acquisition, control, supervision, and monitoring. The successful candidate will be responsible for extending the reference model of the SMP system, implementing real-time controls applications, and integrating these with hardware elements and upper software layers, including Java, Python, and Angular. This position requires collaboration with team members and stakeholders to ensure the successful deployment and validation of software solutions in test environments connected to hardware systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Software Engineer include contributing to the development, testing, and maintenance of software components for the BIS and SMP systems, which encompass real-time control, data processing, and user interfaces. The engineer will support the collection of requirements and feedback from users and hardware experts, assist in maintaining and extending the SMP reference model, and participate in deploying and validating software solutions in test environments connected to hardware systems. Additionally, the engineer will collaborate with team members and contribute to documentation and reporting activities, ensuring that all software components meet the required standards and specifications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a basic understanding of backend development concepts and a willingness to learn. Familiarity with software development tools and practices such as Git is essential, and exposure to containers or CI/CD is considered a plus. Experience working on team projects, whether academic or professional, is required. An interest in Agile methodologies, such as Scrum or Kanban, is advantageous. The ideal candidate should demonstrate the ability and motivation to learn and navigate complex, multi-language codebases, with a strong attention to code quality and a commitment to following best practices.

Educational Background:
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. It is important to note that applicants without a university degree are not eligible for this position, nor are those who hold a PhD. The educational background should reflect a solid foundation in software development principles and practices, as well as an understanding of the relevant technologies used in the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in a relevant field. This experience can be gained through internships, academic projects, or professional roles that involve software development and engineering. The emphasis is on the ability to demonstrate practical skills and knowledge in software development rather than extensive work history.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication at CERN. Additionally, candidates should have a commitment to learning French, which is beneficial for integration into the local community and workplace.

Additional Notes:
The position offers 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 flexibility is categorized as hybrid. The target start date for this position is July 1, 202

• The job reference is TE-MPE-CB-2026-100-GRAE, and it falls under the field of Software Engineering and IT, benchmarked as job 200020 - Computing Engineer. The 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, a relocation package, and opportunities for on-the-job and formal training, including language classes.