Software Developer for Control Systems

What you'll do

You will join a team that is responsible for the development and evolution of CERN’s industrial control frameworks, JCOP and UNICOS, as well as for evaluating and validating new technologies for future control systems.

These frameworks build on the commercial SCADA platform SIMATIC WinCC Open Architecture (WinCC OA) from Siemens, which forms the backbone of more than 800 mission-critical control systems.

Starting in a few months, the LHC detectors will undergo major upgrades requiring new control systems and additional functionality in the JCOP Framework. In this context, you will contribute to the development and evolution of the JCOP Framework and support the implementation of detector control systems.

Your responsibilities

Contribute to the development and evolution of the JCOP Framework used by the LHC experiments.
Implement and maintain software components, templates and tools based on WinCC OA and CERN control frameworks.
Integrate devices into supervisory control systems.
Design & Development of user interfaces with WinCC OA.
Prototype and test new solutions to improve reliability, maintainability and scalability of the frameworks.
Assist LHC experiments in the development, deployment and maintenance of their control systems.
Participate in code reviews, debugging and troubleshooting of control system applications.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Initial experience or exposure to software development in distributed or modular systems.
Experience with modern programming languages and development tools (e.g. C/C++ or similar).
Knowledge of software engineering principles (version control GIT, testing, code quality, documentation, CI/CD).
Knowledge of Qt, Node.js or TypeScript would be an advantage.
Familiarity with industrial control systems, SCADA technologies, or CERN experiment online systems would be an advantage.
Your studies focused on Software Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Proficiency in C/C++ programming.
Ability to learn and adapt to new technologies and frameworks quickly.
Ability to design, implement and debug software components in complex systems.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and interact with engineers and scientists.
Good communication and documentation skills.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/09/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly stipend between 5266-5793 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

Let's get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
By the application deadline, you have a maximum of 2 years of professional experience since graduation in the respective field and your highest educational qualification is either a bachelor’s or master’s degree. You must have a university degree and can’t hold a PhD.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

Your CV (English or French)
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The BE department is at the heart of CERN's accelerator complex.

Its mission is to lead the development, construction, and operation of advanced particle accelerators, and to provide cutting-edge technology solutions that enable new discoveries in fundamental physics. Committed to promoting a culture of excellence, creativity and collaboration, individuals from diverse backgrounds contribute to the advancement of science and technology, as well as engaging in scientific education, outreach, and broader knowledge and technology transfer initiatives.

Overview of CERN

Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

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Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
How big would the team be?

The size of the team you'll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
What is the working language at CERN?

The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
What support does CERN provide for relocation?

CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the “Salary, Benefits and Support“ page.
Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
What would my salary be?

Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.