HPC Software Engineer / HPC Software Engineeress

ETH Zürich - July 19, 2025

Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM)

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. It is renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and its commitment to translating new knowledge and innovations into practice.

About the Role

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 seeking a High Performance Computing (HPC) Software Engineer to enhance and optimize the ICON model (80-100%).

To leverage the latest advancements in hardware technologies, the ICON model has been adapted to run on Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and is among the first models utilized in production on such hardware. Various technologies are employed to run on GPUs, including compiler directives integrated within the code and, in specific cases, a complete rewrite using 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 newly developed DSL-based components to ensure the system is production-ready.

Qualifications

  • MSc in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields with a strong software engineering background.
  • Solid programming skills, particularly in Python.
  • Extensive experience in GPU programming and HPC development.
  • Familiarity with numerical weather prediction or atmospheric sciences is advantageous but not essential.
  • Able to work collaboratively in diverse teams, displaying open-mindedness and enthusiasm.

What We Offer

At C2SM and MeteoSwiss, we are dedicated to promoting flexible and family-friendly working models. Achieving a healthy work-life balance is important to us. This position offers engaging and challenging tasks, providing you the opportunity to work with a cutting-edge operational weather prediction system alongside a highly motivated team. Your contributions will directly impact the future of operational weather forecasts in Switzerland, benefiting decision-making across all sectors related to weather.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Motivation Letter
  • Names and contact information of 1-2 references

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. The position is limited to 1 year, available immediately, and will remain open until filled. The workplace is located at MeteoSwiss at Zurich-Airport, with remote work options commonly practiced a few days per week.

Further Information

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

We emphasize that applications submitted via email or postal services will not be considered.

Please note that candidate selection is conducted by responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence. For recruitment services, the General Terms and Conditions of ETH Zurich will apply.

Location : Zürich ETH-Zentrum
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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

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