Software Engineer / Software Engineeress

About the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS)

The Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS) develops and operates a high-performance computing and data research infrastructure that supports world-class science in Switzerland. Its user laboratory is available to domestic and international researchers in academia, industry, and the business sector. The centre is operated by ETH Zurich and has offices at its data centre in Lugano and in Zurich.

Position Overview

We are seeking a driven software engineer to work at the intersection of machine learning and high-performance computing, tackling complex, open-ended challenges to deliver scalable solutions. You will design and optimize a software-defined infrastructure that enables cutting-edge AI/ML projects in a high-performance and data-intensive environment. The preferred work location for this position is Zurich, but it could also be Lugano.

Contract Details

This position offers an initial contract limited to two years, providing the opportunity to contribute to a fast-evolving AI landscape in which CSCS plays a key role. You will support high-impact initiatives both nationally and internationally, including contributions to the Swiss AI Initiative and projects like the development of the Apertus models. The two-year contract could potentially be extended or even become permanent.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with researchers and users to understand and solve complex, real-world problems.
• Contribute to AI/ML projects, including large language model training, inference, fine-tuning, and HPC-accelerated workflows.
• Develop, maintain, and optimize software and systems, covering core library programming to scripting and automation.
• Take ownership of high-impact tasks and ensure effective communication with stakeholders throughout the process.
• Explore ill-defined problems, study feasible solutions, and acquire new knowledge along the way.

Qualifications and Skills

We welcome engineers with diverse backgrounds who are eager to contribute to our mission. We are primarily looking for strong technical foundations, sound engineering judgment, and the ability to bridge gaps across domains. Curiosity, adaptability, a willingness to learn on the job, and potential for growth matter more to us than a perfect initial match of technical requirements.

Technical Environment and Areas of Interest

The following technologies illustrate the breadth of our stack and areas of interest:

• Large-scale parallel and distributed systems, including performance tuning.
• Programming and tooling such as C/C++, Python, CUDA, OpenMP, and Spack.
• Linux-based systems, scripting, Slurm, and general systems engineering.
• Containerized and Kubernetes-based service deployment and operations.
• Large-scale machine learning and LLM workflows (e.g., PyTorch, Megatron, pre-training, fine-tuning, inference).
• Storage and data systems (e.g., Lustre, NFS, VAST).
• Collective communication and high-speed networking (e.g., NCCL, RCCL, MPI).
• Monitoring and observability (e.g., DCGM, LDMS, metrics dataflow pipelines and data product development).
• Testing frameworks, software quality practices, and DevOps/GitOps approaches.

Personal Qualities

• Self-motivated, proactive, focused, and collaborative.
• Strong problem-solving mindset and comfort tackling complex or ambiguous problems.
• Clear communicator with a strong understanding of user needs.
• Open to learning new technologies and working across disciplines.
• Comfortable seeking assistance and involving relevant expertise when necessary.

Ways of Working

Our team thrives in collaborative, self-organizing environments based on Agile principles. Experience with structured development practices such as test-driven development is a plus.

Core Values

• Curiosity: Enjoy learning, exploring new ideas, and understanding problems deeply.
• Openness: Listen, collaborate, and be receptive to different perspectives.
• Courage: Tackle challenging or ambiguous problems and take initiative.
• Supportive: Help colleagues and users succeed and contribute to a positive team culture.
• Integrity: Act honestly, ethically, and reliably in your work.

Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive engineering team and particularly encourage applications from groups underrepresented in technology. If you are technically adept, curious, and eager to grow, we want to hear from you.

Your Impactful Role

Join ETH Zurich, where you will not only support your professional development but also contribute actively to positive societal change. Enjoy numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, various sports offered by ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension plans. Experience a dynamic working environment enriched by cultural diversity and a range of unique offers.

Application Instructions

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further Information

For additional information about CSCS, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Stefano Schuppli at schuppli@cscs.ch (no applications).