Software Engineer (Python)

What you'll do

Join CERN’s Scientific Information Service, as part of the OSI Department, and contribute to the development of platforms such as INSPIRE, SCOAP³, CERN Analysis Preservation and HEPData, used by researchers and scientific communities worldwide. You will design, develop, and operate backend applications, APIs, integrations, and data processing workflows, working primarily with Python and Django.

You will also help bring machine learning and emerging AI capabilities to these platforms, including information extraction, classification, matching, recommendation, semantic search, RAG, and LLM-based applications. You will explore new ways of connecting scientific information platforms, including technologies such as the Model Context Protocol, with a focus on production systems rather than fundamental ML research.

Your responsibilities

Develop, maintain, and operate scientific information applications using Python and Django, including APIs, data models, integrations, and data processing workflows.
Integrate machine learning and AI capabilities into production systems, using technologies such as Large Language Models, retrieval-augmented generation, semantic search, and the Model Context Protocol.
Evaluate emerging AI technologies and apply them to concrete scientific information use cases.
Ensure software quality through automated testing, code review, monitoring, and continuous integration.
Collaborate with software engineers, product owners, and information specialists on technical solutions and architecture.

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Your profile

Strong professional experience in Python and software engineering, including backend development with Django or a comparable Python framework, API design, relational databases, and maintainable production software.
Experience with data-intensive applications or data processing workflows.
Good understanding of modern Large Language Model technologies and their integration into software systems.
Experience with Apache Airflow, React and TypeScript, OpenSearch or Elasticsearch would be an asset.
Experience with LLM applications, retrieval-augmented generation, embeddings, semantic search, Model Context Protocol, tool calling, or AI agent integrations would also be an asset.
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Computer Science or a related field.

Your skills

Development of application software, design, development and maintenance of production software applications, APIs and data processing workflows using Python and Django.
Knowledge of programming techniques and languages, strong knowledge of Python, software engineering principles, API development, relational databases and modern development practices.
Architecture and design of ICT systems, designing maintainable and scalable software architectures, integrations and data intensive applications.
Testing, diagnosing and optimisation of software, applying automated testing, monitoring, debugging, performance analysis, and continuous integration to ensure software quality and reliability.
Delivers high quality work on time and fulfils expectations.
Identifies, defines and assesses problems, takes action to address them.
Keeps up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbs new information.
Supports and acts in accordance with team decisions; accepts joint responsibility for team successes and shortcomings.
Demonstrates a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addresses issues of conflict constructively.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200020 - Computing Engineer

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum net entry-salary of 9236 Swiss Francs per month, increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
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, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

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, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot and Croatian nationals, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
You have relevant qualifications and professional experience.
If you have previously held a Staff contract at CERN, you will not be eligible for these positions.
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)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The OSI department is a transversal service provider aiming to increase efficiency, resilience, openness and sustainability. It provides expert guidance on continuous improvement, risk and crisis management, service and process optimisation, and scientific information management, and coordinates CERN’s open science, preservation, and sustainability efforts.

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.