Technical Platform Operations Associate / Technical Platform Operations Associate

Technical Platform Operations Associate for Social Impact Project

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Public Policy Group, the Immigration Policy Lab, and the Decision Science Laboratory at ETH Zurich, along with the Labor Group at the University of Lausanne, are inviting applications for a Technical Platform Operations Associate position, which is set to commence between July 2025 and August 2025.

Project Background

Path2Work is a data-driven, scalable job search platform developed by researchers at ETH Zurich and the University of Lausanne. Our mission is to facilitate the integration of refugees into the Swiss labor market, while simultaneously addressing the broader labor shortage in Switzerland. We are currently evaluating the platform's effectiveness through a randomized controlled trial, and we are working towards founding a non-profit start-up to ensure Path2Work's sustainable impact. This project is being developed in close collaboration with key national partners, including the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), and a wide network of stakeholders across Switzerland.

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated project team member eager to contribute to an impact-oriented initiative supporting refugees in their job search within Switzerland. As an integral team member, you will collaborate with a dynamic and international team of researchers and developers to operate and further enhance the platform.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• DevOps: Support daily platform operations in collaboration with the development team, performing database updates and ensuring data integrity.
• Content Workflows: Implement and manage content across multiple languages and platform modules.
• Technical User Support: Respond to technical user inquiries and provide assistance during peak rollout periods.
• Task Management: Assist the development team in organizing tasks based on research priorities; track progress throughout the implementation process.
• Software Development: Implement and test new features.
• Platform Analytics: Analyze user behavior on a regular basis.

The position is located at the Decision Science Laboratory at ETH Zurich under the supervision of Dr. Stefan Wehrli, and you will closely collaborate with the entire team. The role is initially limited to one year due to third-party funding, with the potential for extension based on performance and project needs. While permanent employment cannot be guaranteed at this stage, there is a genuine commitment to building a sustainable team and offering continued opportunities to strong contributors.

Profile

Strong candidates will possess most of the following qualifications:

• Bachelor's or preferably a Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a Social Science discipline complemented by strong engineering skills.
• 1-2 years of relevant work experience, ideally in software development or applied research projects.
• Proficiency in software development, particularly with web technologies (JavaScript, HTML, and CSS) and C# (.NET).
• Data analysis skills in Python or R.
• Experience using Git for version control and scripting in Bash or PowerShell.
• A proactive, problem-solving attitude with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in German is a plus.
• An interest in applied research and developing digital solutions for social impact.

Workplace

The role offers an opportunity to contribute to an impactful and research-driven project that supports the integration of refugees into the Swiss labor market. Enjoy a highly collaborative work environment within a motivated and supportive team.

We Offer

• The chance to work on a project that makes a difference in the lives of refugees.
• A collaborative and supportive work atmosphere.
• Salary and pension benefits in accordance with ETH standards.

We Value Diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and cultivate an environment where 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 maintain a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

If you have any questions regarding the position, please contact the technical project lead Dr. Stefan Wehrli via email: wehrlist@ethz.ch (Subject: Path2Work Operations Associate).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections worldwide, we work together to address today's and tomorrow's global challenges.