Software & Test Engineer

Since the first Apollo Mission on the Moon in 1969 the Space Research and Planetary Sciences Division of the University of Bern is actively participating in space exploration missions to planetary objects in our solar system, such as Moon, Mars, Jupiter and others.

For a new mission opportunity, the group has to deliver a novel mass spectrometric system that shall measure on-site the chemical composition of solids fully autonomously.

Current plans foresee to send the first of two units no earlier than 2027. To help meet these challenges, we are now seeking an experienced Software & Test Engineer 80 - 100%.

The main objective is the development of an existing Space Instrument Control Software written in C++ and QT (GUI application) as well as to implement and perform tests of various hardware with the custom scripting language.

Software & Test Engineer

Tasks

The position comprises following tasks :

• Software development with C++ for interface application
• Software development with scripting languages (Python)
• Commissioning and testing of finished assemblies and flight instruments after completion of the required documentation (logsheets, measurement reports,
• Execution of the work and documentation (ECSS standards)
• Close collaboration and coordination with the project management
• Participation in technical meetings and reviews in an international environment

Requirements

For this position, a bachelor's or master's degree (FH or ETH) in software engineering is required. Profound knowledge and practice in C++ (minimum C++14) are expected as well as good understanding and adherence to software development best practices (defensive programming, encapsulation and modularity, design patterns, CI / CT, unit test, etc).

Knowledge and practice with the QT framework and / or generally user interfaces as well as hardware-related programming in C / C++ would be an advantage.

Good spoken and written knowledge of English is required. German would be an advantage.

We offer

The position is available immediately for an initial period of one year with option of extension up to three years. This position offers a great opportunity to work in the exciting field of space science and exploration.

Our institute is based on-site at the University of Bern, Sidlerstrasse 5, CH-3012 Bern. The salary range is determined in accordance with the personnel regulations of the Canton of Bern.