Software/Embedded Systems Engineer for Quantum Experimental Control and Automation

ETH Zurich seeks a mid-level Software/Embedded Systems Engineer to design and maintain control systems for trapped-ion quantum experiments in Zürich.

This position focuses on the TIQI group’s trapped-ion experimental setups. The engineer will build the underlying control system architecture and software, playing a key role in defining the long-term technical direction of these experiments.

Responsibilities

• Write, test, and debug code spanning the full stack, from low-level firmware to high-level monitoring and control applications.
• Manage software and firmware repositories using standard practices such as version control, unit testing, continuous integration, and documentation.
• Contribute to the overall architecture of the experimental control system by identifying potential bottlenecks and prioritizing development tasks.
• Provide technical support and training to end users, including creating documentation and example materials.

Requirements

• Proven expertise in embedded software and firmware development, particularly with modern C and C++.
• Experience working in teams on embedded projects that involve FPGAs or ASICs.
• Solid background in FPGA projects to maintain existing designs and coordinate with FPGA engineers.
• Strong proficiency in Python for scientific and technical software engineering, including automation, data acquisition, APIs, GUIs, and system integration.
• Familiarity with industry-standard engineering workflows, including version control, unit testing, and build automation.
• A master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer science, physics, or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree with significant relevant experience.
• Excellent command of English for communication.

Nice to have

• Knowledge of German is advantageous but not mandatory.

What the company offers

• Subsidized public transport season tickets and access to car-sharing services.
• Access to a wide variety of sports programs through the ASVZ.
• Childcare support and competitive pension benefits.

About the company

The team at ETH Zurich is primarily composed of colleagues with physics backgrounds. The work environment is self-directed, requiring independent learning and the ability to advise and educate peers on interdisciplinary projects.

• The role demands self-direction and continuous independent learning.
• The team is largely made up of physics experts.
• The position involves educating colleagues and supervising interdisciplinary projects.