Embedded Software Developer

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 and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration among diverse professionals.

Job Overview:
The Embedded Software Developer position is situated within the Electronics Design and Low-Level Software (EDL) section of the Control Electronics and Mechatronics (CEM) group at CERN. The role involves working on the White Rabbit Collaboration Bureau, which focuses on a technology developed at CERN that provides sub-nanosecond synchronization and deterministic data transfer across distributed devices. The successful candidate will be responsible for enhancing and maintaining the software and firmware for the White Rabbit Switch and the White Rabbit PTP Core, which are utilized globally in numerous applications. This position requires collaboration with various institutes and companies worldwide to assist with the integration and deployment of White Rabbit technology. The developer will also engage in outreach activities to promote the technology at conferences and events, ensuring that they are at the forefront of innovation in embedded systems and software development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Embedded Software Developer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and maintaining software and firmware for the White Rabbit Switch and PTP Core; managing GIT repositories with contributions from multiple developers; creating and maintaining tools for automating calibration and testing of White Rabbit devices, including hardware in Continuous Integration (CI) pipelines; assisting in the development of production tests post-hardware manufacturing; participating in outreach activities to promote White Rabbit technology; and collaborating with colleagues in the hardware/software co-design process, which involves the development and review of HDL, firmware, Linux device drivers, and host applications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in low-level programming, particularly in C, and have experience with embedded Linux and Linux device drivers. Proficiency in Git-based development practices, including code reviews and CI pipelines, is essential. Additionally, candidates should be skilled in Python programming and have a commitment to improving their spoken and written English, with a willingness to learn French. Familiarity with testing frameworks such as PyTest, basic FPGA development skills (VHDL, Verilog, SystemVerilog), understanding of PCB schematics, and knowledge of networking and synchronization protocols (e.g., NTP, PTP) are advantageous but not mandatory.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in 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 position is open to candidates who are nationals of CERN Member or Associate Member States and who have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a maximum of two years of professional experience in the field of Software Engineering or a related discipline. This experience should be gained after the completion of their highest educational qualification, which must be either a Bachelor's or Master's degree. Candidates who have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract are not eligible to apply.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication at CERN. Additionally, candidates should 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 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 successful candidate is September 1, 202

• The job reference for this position is BE-CEM-EDL-2026-136-GRAE. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 5,266 to 5,793 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free and dependent on the candidate's degree. Additional benefits include 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.