Python Developer

About the role

Reporting into the Head of Software Development, this role is a key part of our small and highly collaborative software team, which is located across our Cambridge and Amsterdam offices.

As a Junior Software Engineer at GÉANT, you’ll be responsible for developing and maintaining the software systems that power our global network. You will work on solutions that directly impact our network's performance, scalability, and reliability within a collaborative environment, contributing to the cutting-edge technology that supports the world’s largest R&E network.

What You’ll Do:

• Write clean, efficient Python code to develop and maintain critical systems that support GÉANT’s infrastructure, ensuring they run reliably across thousands of institutions.
• Troubleshoot and debug complex issues within existing systems, identifying problems, solving them creatively, and ensuring seamless operation of GÉANT’s network.
• Contribute to testing and validation efforts, ensuring new features meet high-quality standards and integrating with automated testing and continuous integration practices.
• Collaborate closely with senior engineers and solution architects, contributing ideas and insights to deliver scalable, high-quality solutions.
• Participate in code reviews, providing and receiving feedback to ensure the highest standards of code quality and performance.
• Configure and manage applications on project workstations and servers, ensuring proper deployment and optimal system performance.
• Ensure high-quality standards along with appropriate detailed documentation for systems and processes, helping to maintain clear and accessible project documentation.Other duties as may reasonably be required.

What You’ll Bring

You bring a foundational understanding of Python development and a genuine eagerness to expand your skills within a collaborative and supportive environment. Curious and adaptable, you’re ready to take on challenges that will enhance your technical expertise, contribute ideas, and tackle meaningful projects while learning from experienced professionals committed to helping you grow.

Some of the technical skill we are looking for include:

• Understanding in Python 3.x development, including experience with common tools such as pip, setuptools, and tox, as well as strong debugging and scripting skills.
• Knowledge of web-based front-end technologies, such as JavaScript, TypeScript, Node.js, or React, with an understanding of how these integrate with back-end services.
• Familiarity with relational databases, particularly MySQL or PostgreSQL, including writing and optimising queries.
• Understanding of network protocols, including IPv4, IPv6, TCP, and UDP, along with familiarity with integrating APIs into complex systems.
• Commitment to software development practices, such as CI/CD pipelines, automated testing (unit, integration, and performance testing), and secure coding principles.
• Exposure with Linux environments (RHEL, Ubuntu), including comfort using bash, CLI tools, and version control systems like Git.
• Understanding of Agile frameworks, such as Scrum or Kanban, and the ability to thrive in iterative, team-oriented workflows.

Bonus points for experience with Docker, Puppet, or deploying and configuring applications in cloud environments. A willingness to explore advanced areas such as federated SSO frameworks (e.g., SAML 2.0, OIDC) or backbone network technologies (e.g., BGP, MPLS) is highly valued.

About GÉANT

GÉANT operates the world’s largest and most advanced Research & Education (R&E) network, connecting over 50 million users across 10,000 institutions in Europe. Our mission is to provide seamless, high-performance connectivity and access to essential resources for academic and research institutions. By enabling collaborative research, innovation, and discovery, we play a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology and education worldwide.

Working Arrangements

GÉANT supports hybrid working arrangements, with two days per week in the Cambridge or Amsterdam office and occasional travel within Europe.

Our Hiring Process

We want your experience with us to be as engaging and smooth as possible! Here’s what you can expect.

Stage One: Let's Chat!

If you’re shortlisted, our friendly recruiter will reach out to kick things off. It’s a chance to get to know each other, learn about you, and share what makes this role so exciting.

Stage Two: Show us how tech savvy you are

Next, you’ll meet the hiring manager for a deeper dive into your technical knowledge and skills. Don’t worry—it’s more of a conversation than an interrogation!

Stage Three: Flex your research skills

This is where the magic happens! Ideally, we’ll meet face-to-face (or virtually if needed) for a coding challenge and technical discussion with the wider team. No pressure—we’re not asking you to build the next big app! Just brush up on your algorithms and data structures, and you’ll be good to go.

The role will remain open until Sunday, 23rd February, but we will review applications on a rolling basis and may close earlier if a suitable candidate is identified. We encourage you to apply promptly to ensure your application is considered.

Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.