Software Developer - Beam Optics

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 multiple countries and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology. The organization is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics, and it fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration among a diverse range of professionals, including physicists, engineers, and administrative staff. Diversity is a core value at CERN, and it remains central to its mission and continued success.

Job Overview:
The Software Developer for Beam Optics will join the Linear and Non-Linear Optics (LNO) Section within CERN's Accelerator and Beam Physics (ABP) Group. This role is crucial for shaping the future of the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC). The successful candidate will be part of the Optics Measurement and Correction (OMC) team, responsible for developing advanced software and analysis tools that facilitate precise beam-optics measurements and corrections. The position involves improving commissioning procedures and ensuring the safe, reliable, and high-performance operation of the HL-LHC, which directly contributes to the successful delivery of its innovative physics program. The candidate will maintain and extend the core OMC framework and toolset, explore software solutions for efficiency improvements, update accelerator model creation and correction algorithms, and develop new GUIs and analysis tools for use in the CERN Control Centre during optics commissioning.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Software Developer include maintaining and extending the core OMC framework and toolset used during LHC commissioning and operation. The candidate will explore software solutions to enhance the efficiency and capability of optics measurement and corrections in the LHC. They will update accelerator model creation and correction algorithms to utilize new simulation tools and investigate the viability of automation for key measurement and analysis workflows, implementing solutions where feasible. Additionally, the candidate will develop new graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and analysis tools for use in the CERN Control Centre during optics commissioning and participate in the analysis of optics measurements in the CERN accelerators.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a background in programming and software design, with experience in Python. Familiarity with version control systems and collaborative workflows, such as Github, is essential. Experience in GUI development is also required. Knowledge of particle accelerator physics and operation would be advantageous. The candidate should possess strong software development skills in Python, the ability to test, diagnose, and optimize existing software, and a structured approach to work with good prioritization skills to deliver results within required timelines. Strong teamwork and communication skills are necessary, along with an interest in developing and maintaining software solutions for applied physics, particularly in the field of accelerator physics. Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and have a professional background in Physics, Software Engineering, or a related field. They should possess 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.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a professional background in Physics or Software Engineering, with a minimum of 2 years and a maximum of 6 years of post-graduation professional experience if holding a Master's degree. If the candidate holds a PhD, they should have no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. This level of experience is essential to ensure that the candidate can effectively contribute to the development of software and analysis tools for beam optics measurements and corrections.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory for this position. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to learning the other language, which is important for effective communication within the diverse environment at CERN.

Additional Notes:
The job closing date is set for 30.09.2026 at 23:59 CEST. The contract duration is 24 months, with a possible extension of up to 36 months maximum. The working hours are 40 hours per week, and the job offers flexibility with a hybrid working model. The target start date for this position is 01-January-202

• The role may require work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays, depending on the needs of the organization. The job reference is BE-ABP-LNO-2026-132-GRAP, and it falls under the field of Applied Physics with a benchmark job classification of 200140 - Applied Physicist. The compensation includes a monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month (tax-free), 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks of annual closure, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, a relocation package, and opportunities for on-the-job and formal training, including language classes.