Introduction

Are you an experienced electronics engineer in the field of FPGA design? We are seeking to expand our team developing high- performance data acquisition electronics based on state-of-the-art FPGAs integrated in and around the detectors at the Large Hadron Collider. This will involve R&D, production, testing, integration and commissioning, all contributing to the future of CERN’s physics experiments. Take part!

Functions

You will join the Electronic Systems for Experiments Group (ESE: https://ep-ese.web.cern.ch/) of the Experimental Physics Department (EP), which designs electronics for the experiments at CERN and provides electronics-related services. The Front-End (FE) section designs and integrates on-detector systems with specific constraints imposed by the high density of components and the harsh operational environment. These systems incorporate signal processing, data transmission and power distribution.

As an electronics engineer in the FE section of the ESE group, you will:

• Design and commission firmware for FPGAs operating in on- and off-detector applications.
• Participate in conceptual studies of new generic data-acquisition systems based on FPGAs.
• Develop and simulate FPGA firmware implementing link protocols for data transport within a radiation environment.
• Develop test software for the validation of the hardware and firmware of the system.
• Participate in the testing of prototype and production modules.
• Document firmware and test procedures, present your work, and participate in design reviews.
• Coordinate a small team maintaining the systems in which these FPGAs operate.

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of digital electronics or a related field.

Experience:

• Complex HDL firmware development for FPGAs, including implementation of data readout and protection mechanisms against Single Event Effects, HDL simulation, timing and placement constraints, and verification tools (eg System Verilog/UVM).
• Commissioning, maintenance and operation of readout systems and data-links in HEP experiments.
• Software scripting and programming languages (eg Python, TCL, C++) and collaborative firmware development practices (eg Continuous Integration, Git).
• Testing and characterization of complex electronics modules and the use of relevant laboratory instrumentation.

Technical competencies:

• Design and simulation of FPGA-based electronics.
• Knowledge of radiation effects on electronics and mitigation techniques.
• Knowledge and application of high-level description languages and tools.
• Development of application firmware/software.
• Testing and measurement of digital electronic circuits.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Communicating effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
• Demonstrating flexibility: actively participating in the implementation of new processes and technologies; adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information.
• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in at least one of the two languages.

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 05.07.2023.

Employment Conditions

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

These functions require:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-ESE-FE-2023-79-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electronics Engineer