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.

Introduction

Are you an engineer in digital mixed signal ready to lead activities focusing on verifying and testing digital and mixed-signal designs? Do you love creating solutions to highly complex challenges? Do you intrinsically see the importance in every detail? CERN, take part!

You will join the Accelerator Systems 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, RF Feedbacks and Beam Measurements 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.

Functions

As a member of the team, you will design, produce, install, commission and daily operate the LLRF systems in the existing accelerators and participate in developments for the future systems and machines. These mixed signal systems include high performance programmable logic devices (FPGA) and RF system on chip devices (RF SoC), signal conversion (ADCs and DACs up to Gsps), digital signal processing of radio-frequency signals and sophisticated feedback loops, high speed digital communication links, radio-frequency front ends (amplifiers, filters, mixers, up to 1 GHz) and more.  

Important proportion of our duties represents assuring smooth and reliable, 24/7 operation for these systems (existing and future) and their continuous performance improvements.

In addition, you will:

• Participate in the design and specification of radio-frequency systems and sub-systems for particle accelerators;
• Design mixed signal electronic modules/systems containing a high performance SoC and RF SoC devices (Xilinx), large digital processing part, RF front-end interface and signal distribution;
• Develop firmware to implement the required functionality and signal processing in FPGAs;
• Steer the development of software scripts with Python or Matlab for hardware tests and setting up;
• Develop and implement techniques to test the systems and evaluate their RF performance on the test bed and when installed in the accelerators (e.g. jitter, noise, stability, drifts);
• Coordinate the procurement of parts and production of modules, either with industry, or using the in-house services;
• Produce and manage the associated technical documentation;
• As an equipment specialist, follow-up the daily operation, recommissioning of the systems after technical stops, define and follow-up the required maintenance and upgrades, provide support on beam tests and measurements;
• Participate in the stand-by duty and interventions on LLRF systems;
• Provide supervision to students/graduates.

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

Experience:

Required experience:

• Demonstrated experience in the design and development of electronic modules with focus on digital and mixed signal systems based on programmable logic devices;
• Demonstrated experience in design and development using System on Chip, or RF System on Chip devices;
• Experience in interfacing programmable logic devices with peripherals using high speed digital links;
• Experience in production of electronic modules by industry;
• Experience with scripting languages such as Python or Matlab.

Desired experience:

• Existing experience with Xilinx devices and toolchain (including System generator, HLS);
• Design and simulation of digital control loops and feedback systems;
• Experience in the field of analogue and high-frequency electronics and designs;
• Testing and measurement of electronic circuits, modules and systems;
• Use of modern test instruments (high-end digital oscilloscopes, signal and protocol analysers, RF instrumentation).

Technical competencies:

• Design and simulation of FPGA-based electronics;
• Knowledge and application of high-level description languages and tools: (VHDL);
• Testing and measurement of digital electronic circuits;
• Testing and measurement of analog electronic circuits;
• Assembly of electronic components: and modules;
• Contract management.

Behavioural competencies:

• Solving problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them; producing workable and timely solutions that meet requirements.
• 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; remaining objective, focused and productive in a stressful environment; focusing on solutions rather than problems.
• Achieving results: following through on new ideas and innovations; planning and implementing application; 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; expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.

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 12.01.2024 midday.

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:

• 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.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SY-RF-FBM-2023-148-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electronics Engineer