Scientific Software Engineer / Scientific Software Engineeress

Scientific Software Engineer (AI-based Weather Forecasting)

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

In recent years, AI-based weather forecasting models have demonstrated impressive speed and skill. However, many existing systems operate at relatively coarse spatial resolutions, limiting their effectiveness in regions with complex terrain. The topography of Switzerland, combined with the demand for precise, frequently updated forecasts, necessitates models that operate at very high resolutions and integrate seamlessly into operational workflows.

Project Background

In collaboration with the Center for Climate Systems Modeling (C2SM) at ETH Zurich and various European weather centers, MeteoSwiss is leading an initiative to develop and deploy a next-generation, high-resolution AI-based weather forecasting system.

This project aims to create a forecasting system capable of generating predictions across multiple temporal scales, from short-range up to 10 days ahead, utilizing the latest advancements in deep learning. A key component of this effort is Anemoi, a framework developed by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) to support AI applications in weather and climate science.

Job Description

• Join the post-processing and verification team at MeteoSwiss as a Scientific Programmer / Software Developer.
• Contribute to the implementation of a state-of-the-art, ML-based forecasting system.
• Focus on data processing pipelines, post-processing, and verification workflows.
• Collaborate closely with scientists, ML researchers, and operational teams.
• Ensure forecast outputs meet the needs of diverse users.
• Support reliable integration of forecast products into production environments.
• Design and implement new forecasting products.
• Develop scalable, maintainable processing pipelines.
• Contribute to the evolution and long-term sustainability of the system.
• Tackle complex problems and collaborate across disciplines.
• Contribute across multiple stages of the workflow as the system matures.

The position is limited to two years.

Profile

We welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds who meet most (not necessarily all) of the following criteria:

• MSc or PhD in natural sciences (e.g., physics, meteorology), data science, computer science, or a related field.
• Experience in scientific software development.
• Solid understanding of numerical weather prediction and meteorological applications.
• Experience with, or strong interest in, machine learning, from classical methods (e.g., random forests) to modern deep learning approaches (e.g., graph neural networks, transformers).
• Strong Python skills; experience with Xarray and Earthkit is an advantage.
• Experience with parallel or distributed computing is a plus.
• Familiarity with large-scale or production-level software systems.
• Interest in DevOps practices and sustainable software engineering.
• Willingness to contribute across the full workflow, from development to maintenance and operations.
• A collaborative mindset, with the ability to take ownership of tasks and communicate effectively within a team.
• Motivation to work in a diverse, interdisciplinary, and international environment.

Workplace

Join us at MeteoSwiss, where you can contribute to a unique mission that aligns scientific research with operational forecasting. Work with a team dedicated to excellence and sustainability, and be part of an interdisciplinary environment that values diversity.

We Offer

• A unique opportunity to help shape the next generation of AI-based weather forecasting.
• Direct involvement in bringing cutting-edge ML research into operational use.
• Work on production-grade systems at the scale of a national meteorological service.
• A position at the interface of research and operations, bridging academic innovation with practical forecasting.
• Collaboration with international research groups and European weather centers.
• Use of modern scientific and ML software stacks, including Python, PyTorch, Xarray, and container technologies.
• A supportive, motivated, and interdisciplinary team within a mission-driven public service organization.
• The opportunity to combine scientific impact, societal relevance, and modern software engineering.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about how we foster an open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information, please visit the C2SM and MeteoSwiss websites. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Daniele Nerini at daniele.nerini@meteoswiss.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Known for outstanding education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich is home to over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Located in the heart of Europe, we are committed to developing innovative solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.