Electronics Engineer (TE-MPE-EP-2025-16-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 passionate about cutting-edge electronics and ready to ensure CERN’s superconducting magnets operate safely under extreme conditions? This is your chance to make an impact! 

Join the Technology Department’s Machine Protection and Electrical Integrity Group, where we design and maintain advanced magnet circuit protection systems. As part of the Electronics for Protection Section, you’ll collaborate with experts to develop innovative, safety-critical electronics for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). 

We’re looking for a talented and skilled electronics engineer to enhance the LHC’s quench detection system—vital for safeguarding superconducting magnets storing gigajoules of energy. You’ll join an international team to develop, design, produce, implement, and maintain a complex digital and mixed-signal electronics system comprising thousands of modules distributed around the LHC’s 27 km circumference. 

Take on this challenge and shape the future of particle accelerators! 

Functions

• Design protection electronic devices to meet electrical, mechanical and other specifications;

• Actively support the operation of these systems in the LHC and other CERN facilities;  

• Develop, document and maintain protection electronics gateware and firmware based on either FPGA, microcontroller or other programmable devices; 

• Support the industrial production of the various types of protection electronics; 

• Ensure the effective reception, integration and commissioning of new electronics;

• Develop software for automatic testing, configuration and maintenance of protection electronics, and define test plans for quality assurance and acceptance procedures;

• Prepare all relevant documentation necessary for the operation and maintenance of the customised electronics; 

• Ensure the highest safety standards throughout all phases of design, production, and operation. 

Qualifications

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

Experience:

Proven experience in: 

• Electronic design of digital and mixed-signal systems for embedded applications; 

• FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) and microcontroller programming; 

• CAE tools used for design entry, verification and simulation; 

• C/C++ and Python.  

Experience in: 

• Software applications running on WINDOWS™ and LINUX computers. 

Knowledge of operational safety engineering concepts would be an advantage. 

Technical competencies:

• Design and simulation of digital electronic circuits;
• Design and simulation of FPGA-based electronics;
• Testing and measurement of digital electronic circuits;
• Knowledge and application of instrumentation and measurement techniques.

Behavioural competencies:

• Solving Problems: producing workable and timely solutions that meet requirements Finding the information needed to solve problems; making objective judgments based on all the facts available;
• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind;
• Working in Teams: contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues;
• Demonstrating Flexibility: demonstrating openness to new ideas and situations;
• Communicating Effectively: providing others with timely information.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English in a professional context and the willingness to learn French. 

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.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 11th of March 00:00 Geneva time. 

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.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-MPE-EP-2025-16-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electronics Engineer