Control Software Engineer – Particle Accelerators

What you'll do

You will join the Technology Department’s Machine Protection and Electrical Integrity (MPE) Group, which develops and maintains systems that protect accelerator equipment, including magnets and particle-beam-related installations.

Working in a collaborative team of software engineers, you will design, develop and maintain reliable software that supports the safe and efficient operation of the Large Hadron Collider and its injector complex. You will have the opportunity to solve challenging engineering problems, collaborate with experts across different disciplines and contribute to systems that are essential to CERN’s scientific mission.

Your responsibilities

Design, implement, test and maintain software components that interface with equipment protection and interlock systems.
Monitor deployed applications, investigate technical issues and improve reliability, availability and maintainability.
Work with engineers, technical specialists and accelerator operations teams during commissioning, testing and operation.
Understand user requirements, contribute to technical decisions and help deliver sustainable software solutions.
Collaborate with colleagues to strengthen development workflows, automated testing, continuous integration and software quality, including exploring AI-assisted development tools where appropriate.
Provide technical guidance and mentoring to colleagues and students.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Solid software engineering experience, including proficiency in Java and/or C++.
Experience in designing, developing, testing and maintaining software throughout its lifecycle.
Proficiency with software development practices such as version control, automated testing, continuous integration and delivery.
Strong technical acumen in translating complex requirements into robust, efficient, and maintainable solutions.
Master's Degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Computing, Physics or Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Development of application software: core software design principles and application development.
Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures: including Agile methodologies (Kanban, Scrum), Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery, Quality Assurance and DevOps.
Capturing and analysis of requirements for ICT systems: working with end users to understand their needs and providing corresponding technical solutions.
Installation, operation and maintenance (preventive and corrective) of computing systems: including monitoring, diagnosing and support of live, operational systems.
Works well in groups and readily fits into a team; participates fully and takes an active role in team activities.
Expresses opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeps to the point.
Shares knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaches others to ensure knowledge transfer.
Has a structured and organised approach towards work; is able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
Is able to put self in the shoes of others in order to understand their needs and interests.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/04/2027

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200020 - Computing Engineer

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Team supervision

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, Croatian and Turkish 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 TE department specializes in maintaining world-class expertise in accelerator technologies, supporting R&D, and managing technical facilities to advance CERN's technological capabilities.

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.