Electronics Technical Engineer (SY-RF-LL-2025-72-LD)

Company Description

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Job Description

Introduction

Are you an electronics technical engineer, interested in design, production, installation and operation of complex electronic systems? Are you interested in how RF electronics helps to accelerate the particle beams? Take part!

You will join the AcceleratorSystems Department (SY), which is responsible for the beam-related technical systems of the CERN accelerators. The SY teams design, build and operate equipment systems in all CERN accelerators, and are engaged in ambitious forward-looking R&D programmes.

You will join the Radio-Frequency group, Low Level RF section, responsible for the design and operation of the low-level radio-frequency (LLRF) systems for the whole accelerator chain – from the smallest linacs to the Large Hadron Collider. An important proportion of our duties represents assuring smooth and reliable, 24/7 operation for these systems (existing and future) and their continuous performance improvements.

Functions

As a member of the support team, you will oversee operations, coordinate the recommissioning of systems after technical stops, track and implement necessary maintenance and upgrades, and provide assistance with beam tests and measurements.

More specifically you will:

• Participate to the operation and maintenance of the existing electronics;
• Contribute to the specifications for upgrade and consolidation as well as new accelerator projects;
• Design mixed signal electronic modules and coordinating the production, either with industry, or using the in-house design and manufacturing services;
• Develop firmware and embedded software to implement signal processing, feedback control and data logging in FPGAs;
• Assist in developing Python scripts for RF system operation, hardware testing, and setup;
• Test the devices and systems under your responsibility on the test bed and in the machine, using python scripts, and producing test reports;
• Produce and manage the associated technical documentation and provide training for team members.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of electronics engineering, electrical engineering or a related field.

Experience:

Required experience:

• Experience in the design and development of mixed signal electronic modules;
• Experience on design and simulation of FPGA-based electronics;
• Experience with scripting languages such as Python.

Desired experience:

• Use of modern test instruments (digital oscilloscopes, signal analysers, RF instrumentation);
• Experience with digital control loops and feedback systems.

Technical competencies:

• Design and simulation of FPGA-based electronics;
• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages (Python and VHDL);
• Testing and measurement of digital electronic circuits;
• Testing and measurement of analog electronic circuits.

Behavioural competencies:

• Solving problems: producing workable and timely solutions that meet requirements; seeking and integrating other points of view when tackling an issue; consulting experts in the field and undertaking benchmarking.
• Working in teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities; building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.
• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting; actively seeking feedback on own performance and taking steps to improve it.
• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind; delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Communicating effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented; demonstrating a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addressing issues of conflict constructively.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Additional Information

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 31.05.2025 at 23:59 CET.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: SY-RF-LL-2025-72-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electronics Technical Engineer