HPC Software Engineer / HPC Software Engineeress

ETH Zürich - July 9, 2025

Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM)

ETH Zurich stands as one of the world’s foremost institutions specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its commitment to exceptional education, pioneering fundamental research, and translating new knowledge and innovations into practice, ETH Zurich is a beacon of learning and advancement.

The Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) at ETH, in collaboration with the Federal Institute of Meteorology and Climatology MeteoSwiss, jointly develops and operates the weather and climate model ICON. We are currently seeking a High Performance Computing (HPC) Software Engineer to further develop and optimize the ICON model (80-100%).

Job Description

The ICON model benefits from the latest advancements in hardware technology, having been ported to operate on Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). It is among the first models to be utilized in production on such hardware. Several technologies are employed for GPU compatibility, including compiler directives integrated into the code, and in some situations, a complete re-write utilizing a Python domain-specific language (DSL) named gt4py.

Key Responsibilities

  • Port components of the data assimilation system to GPUs using compiler directives.
  • Contribute to the further development and optimization of model components rewritten using the gt4py DSL.
  • Integrate existing model components with new DSL-based components to ensure production readiness.

Qualifications

  • MSc in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields, complemented by a strong software engineering background.
  • Proficiency in programming languages, particularly Python.
  • Significant experience in GPU programming and HPC development.
  • Familiarity with numerical weather prediction or atmospheric sciences is advantageous, though not mandatory.
  • An open-minded, enthusiastic, and collaborative approach, thriving within diverse teams.

Work Environment

At C2SM and MeteoSwiss, we are dedicated to fostering flexible and family-friendly working models. A healthy work-life balance is of paramount importance to us. This position presents engaging and challenging tasks, along with the opportunity to collaborate with a cutting-edge operational weather prediction system within a highly motivated team. Your contributions will directly influence the future of operational weather forecasts for Switzerland, adding value to weather-related decisions across all sectors.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Position Details

This position is limited to one year and is available immediately. It will remain open until filled. The workplace is located at MeteoSwiss at Zurich-Airport, although remote work for a few days each week is a common practice.

Additional Information

For further details regarding this position, please reach out to Xavier Lapillonne (he/him) at xavier.lapillonne@meteoswiss.ch (no applications). For more information about C2SM and the collaboration between ETH and MeteoSwiss, we invite you to visit our website or contact the Executive Director of C2SM, Christina Schnadt Poberaj (she/her) at christina.schnadt@c2sm.ethz.ch (no applications).

Please be aware that we will only accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications submitted via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would also like to clarify that the pre-selection process is conducted by our responsible recruiters, not by artificial intelligence.

For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich applies.

Location : Zürich ETH-Zentrum
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

Please enter your information in the following form and attach your resume (CV)

Only pdf, Word, or OpenOffice file. Maximum file size: 3 MB.