Software Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research organization established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. It employs physicists and engineers who utilize the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN has been at the forefront of scientific discovery since its inception, employing a diverse workforce that fosters innovation and collaboration across various fields. The organization operates in multiple countries and is committed to diversity and inclusion as part of its core mission.

Job Overview:
The Software Engineer position at CERN involves taking responsibility for the maintenance and further development of key existing beam instrumentation systems. As automation, AI, and machine learning continue to transform scientific computing and software engineering, the successful candidate will play a crucial role in coordinating the group’s efforts to apply these technologies to accelerator instrumentation, data analysis, software development, and system operations. The role requires collaboration with experts and multidisciplinary teams to gather requirements and develop effective software solutions, contributing to the adoption of modern AI-assisted software development tools and practices. The engineer will also be involved in enhancing the performance, maintainability, and reliability of beam instrumentation systems during Long Shutdown 3, which includes redesigning, refactoring, and comprehensive testing of software systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Software Engineer include collaborating with experts and operators to understand needs and gather requirements for software solutions. The engineer will maintain, support, and continuously improve existing beam instrumentation software systems. They will design, develop, test, commission, and maintain new and upgraded real-time software systems. The role also involves contributing to knowledge sharing within the team, supervising and mentoring students or early-career talent, and participating in major modernization activities during Long Shutdown

• Specific tasks include enhancing the performance and reliability of systems, designing and deploying machine learning solutions for various applications, and ensuring safe recommissioning of systems after upgrades.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in computer science, applied physics, or a related field. They should have demonstrated experience in software engineering, particularly in developing deterministic software in real-time environments. Familiarity with AI and machine learning techniques applied to engineering, scientific, or software development challenges is essential. Knowledge of large language models and AI-assisted software engineering, as well as basic knowledge of electronics-based digital acquisition hardware, is considered advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree or PhD in computer science, applied physics, or a related field. Equivalent relevant experience may also be considered, emphasizing the importance of a strong foundation in software engineering principles and practices.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in software engineering, particularly in developing deterministic software for real-time systems. Candidates should have experience applying AI and machine learning techniques to solve engineering, scientific, or software development challenges. Familiarity with large language models and AI-assisted software engineering is a plus, as is experience with electronics-based digital acquisition hardware.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the other language. This bilingual requirement reflects CERN's diverse working environment and the need for effective communication across teams.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered as a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of applying for an indefinite position under certain conditions. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers hybrid flexibility. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this position is SY-BI-SW-2026-175-LD. CERN provides a competitive salary that is tax-free and increases with relevant experience. Employees receive 30 days of paid leave per year, plus 2 weeks of annual closure, and are covered by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme. Additional benefits include family allowances, a relocation package, and the possibility to extend the contract up to 8 years.