Backend Python Engineer

Job description

* IT - Software Engineering * Genf * Contracting * Vollzeit * 01 November 2026 - 24 months, with a possible extension up to a maximum of 36 months * Python **Your Task:** * Design, develop and operate backend services using **Python** * Build and maintain scalable data ingestion and processing pipelines for scientific metadata and full-text content * Modernise existing ingestion workflows and migrate processes to **Apache Airflow** * Design and implement robust **REST APIs** for internal applications, partners and external tools * Develop and optimise search capabilities using **OpenSearch**, including indexing strategies and relevance tuning * Support the integration of AI-driven retrieval solutions and Model Context Protocol services * Improve data quality through enrichment, deduplication and automated processing workflows * Contribute to the modernisation of digitisation and archival services * Support large-scale data migrations while ensuring metadata consistency and quality * Develop containerised applications and support modern deployment processes * Implement automated testing, code reviews, monitoring and CI/CD practices * Contribute to open-source software and support the Open Science community   **Your Profile:** * University degree in Computer Science or a related field with relevant professional experience * Strong professional experience in backend development with **Python** * Hands-on experience with Python frameworks such as **Django, Flask and FastAPI** * Solid experience designing and developing **REST APIs** * Strong understanding of relational databases such as **PostgreSQL** and document databases * Practical experience with search technologies such as **OpenSearch / Elasticsearch**, including indexing and relevance tuning * Experience with **Docker, Kubernetes, Git and CI/CD pipelines** * Knowledge of asynchronous programming, automated testing and software engineering best practices * Experience with large-scale data processing, metadata-driven systems and data pipelines * Experience with **Apache Airflow** or similar workflow orchestration tools is an advantage * Knowledge of AI-driven retrieval systems and AI/LLM integrations is a plus * Familiarity with digital archiving, content management systems or scientific information platforms is an advantage * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on developing reliable, scalable and maintainable software solutions * Proactive, quality-oriented team player with strong ownership and ability to work effectively in multicultural environments * Excellent spoken and written English skills