Software Engineer for Network Automation

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 a mission to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries. The organization operates in multiple countries and is renowned for its cutting-edge research in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study fundamental particles and their interactions. Diversity is a core value at CERN, and the organization is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the diverse backgrounds of its workforce.

Job Overview:
The position of Software Engineer for Network Automation at CERN involves enhancing and streamlining software tools that automate the management and operation of CERN's extensive network infrastructure. This includes working with approximately 200 high-capacity routers and 4000 switches that support a variety of workloads, from campus users to multi-terabit data acquisition systems for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) experiments. The role requires a strong passion for network automation and cutting-edge technologies, as the successful candidate will develop software to enable new features and services on the network infrastructure. The engineer will have the opportunity to work with open-source tools, including the Linux operating system and Python-based network management tools like NAPALM and Capirca, as well as engage in model-driven network configuration management using NETCONF and YANG.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Software Engineer for Network Automation include:

• Developing and maintaining software tools that automate network management and operations.
• Collaborating with the IT network engineering team to enhance existing systems and implement new features.
• Utilizing Python for software development, applying object-oriented design patterns to create efficient and scalable solutions.
• Working with relational databases and ensuring data integrity and performance.
• Engaging in software quality assurance practices, including testing and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.
• Handling XML and JSON data formats and utilizing relevant Python libraries.
• Understanding and applying networking technologies, including TCP/IP, switching, and routing protocols.
• Documenting software development processes and maintaining version control using git.
• Participating in training and development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge in network automation and software engineering.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include:

• Strong software development skills in Python, with a focus on object-oriented design patterns.
• Experience with relational databases, particularly SQL.
• Familiarity with software versioning tools, specifically git.
• A commitment to learning and applying software quality assurance tools and practices.
• Basic understanding of networking technologies, including TCP/IP, switching, and routing protocols.
• Spoken and written proficiency in English, with a willingness to learn basic French.
• Eligibility as a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State, with a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in Software Engineering or a related field.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess either a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Software Engineering, IT, or a related field. Applicants without a university degree are not eligible for this position, and those with a PhD are also not eligible. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in software development principles and practices, as well as an understanding of network technologies.

Experience:
The position requires a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in Software Engineering or a related field. This experience should ideally include practical software development, particularly in Python, and exposure to network management and automation tools. Candidates with relevant internships or project work may also be considered, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, which must be spoken and written proficiently. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning the basics of French, as this will be beneficial in the work environment at CERN.

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, with a target start date of June 1, 202

• The job reference for this position is IT-CS-NE-2025-63-GRAE. Compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 5196 to 5716 Swiss Francs (net of tax), along with coverage by CERN's comprehensive health scheme for the employee and their family, membership in the CERN Pension Fund, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year and will have access to on-the-job and formal training, as well as in-house language courses for English and/or French.