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 FPGA Firmware Programmer who is passionate about conceiving, designing and testing electronics for accelerators at the high energy and high intensity frontier? 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. 

The position will be in the Intensity and Tune monitoring Section (IQ) of the Beam Instrumentation Group. You will take part in designing, manufacturing and commissioning of large and complex beam monitoring systems for the charged particle beams that are operated daily in the CERN accelerator complex.

Functions

As an FPGA Firmware Programmer in the Intensity and Tune Measurement Section, your main task will be to develop and maintain the digital electronics and the firmware used for the control and acquisition of beam parameters such as the intensity, tune and position.   

 The job will involve: 

• Designing, upgrading, testing and maintaining digital acquisition electronics based on field programmable logic-based devices (FPGA); 
• Designing, manufacturing and installing digital electronics systems for beam intensity, tune and position measurements; 
• Testing, commissioning, operating and consolidating these systems; 
• Following up on operational issues, carrying out a continuous performance assessment and pro-actively working towards improving the section’s timing and beam instrumentation systems;
• Writing technical documentation and operational procedures. 

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

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in the field of digital electronics engineering and FPGA programming;
• Knowledge of programming languages for task automation, data analysis and design of test benches. (Python and C/C++) would be an advantage.

Technical competencies:

• Design and simulation of FPGA-based electronics.
• Design and simulation of digital electronic circuits.
• Testing and measurement of analog and digital electronic circuits.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Working in teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Demonstrating flexibility: being willing to work on different projects simultaneously.
• Solving problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer.

Language skills:

• Spoken and written English: the ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports, and/or to make oral presentations.
• Basic knowledge of French language or an undertaking to acquire it rapidly. 

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.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 24.01.2025 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:

• Work in radiation areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: SY-BI-IQ-2024-208-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electronics Technical Engineer