Embedded 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 is known for its groundbreaking work on the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). CERN fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration, where diverse professionals from various fields come together to tackle complex scientific challenges.

Job Overview:
The Embedded Software Engineer position at CERN offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the renovation of the LHC Collimator Control System, which is vital for the safe and reliable operation of the LHC, the world's most powerful particle accelerator. The role involves working in a highly collaborative environment, focusing on increasing the reliability, usability, and long-term maintainability of systems integral to LHC operations. The engineer will engage in software development, controls engineering, and accelerator technology, making a significant impact on CERN's flagship facility. Responsibilities include developing control applications using the FESA framework, coordinating control system commissioning, integrating systems with alarm servers, and enhancing usability through high-level tools for real-time monitoring.

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

• Developing and maintaining control applications for the LHC Collimator system using the FESA framework, ensuring seamless integration within CERN's accelerator control environment.
• Coordinating and supporting the commissioning of control systems, which involves performing functional testing, validation, and verification of interlocks and fail-safes prior to operational deployment.
• Integrating control systems with the alarm server and developing high-level tools to improve usability and facilitate real-time monitoring.
• Contributing to the design and validation of system-level tests, including functional, integration, and regression testing.
• Supporting expert and operational interfaces by providing diagnostic capabilities and improving intervention workflows, ensuring that all systems operate efficiently and safely.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate experience in real-time or distributed control systems, preferably within accelerator, industrial automation, or scientific environments. They should have experience in interventions in complex industrial or technical environments and be skilled in developing and maintaining expert interfaces such as GUIs and web tools for control and diagnostics. Familiarity with software version control systems (e.g., Git) and CI/CD workflows is essential. Additionally, candidates should possess strong troubleshooting, analytical, and documentation skills for complex technical issues in operational environments. A proactive, organized, and collaborative approach is necessary, along with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary engineering teams and communicate technical progress clearly.

Educational Background:
The position requires a professional background in Controls Engineering, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, or a related field. Candidates must hold 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. It is also essential that candidates have never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a solid level of experience in the relevant fields, specifically in real-time or distributed control systems. Experience in complex industrial or technical environments is highly valued, as is a proven track record in developing and maintaining control applications and expert interfaces. The role requires a blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge, particularly in software development and systems integration.

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

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. The target start date for the role is January 1, 202

• The job reference for this position is BE-CEM-MRO-2026-156-GRAP. Compensation includes a monthly net stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs, depending 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.