Electronics Technician

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With over 2,500 employees and thousands of scientists from around the globe, CERN operates in multiple countries, primarily in Europe. The organization is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in particle physics and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. CERN's mission is to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe, and it is known for its groundbreaking work, including the Large Hadron Collider (LHC).

Job Overview:
As an Electronics Technician at CERN, you will play a crucial role in upgrading the quench detection system (QDS) that is vital for the operation of superconducting magnets in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). During a significant shutdown period, you will collaborate closely with engineers throughout the entire lifecycle of the project, which includes removing outdated equipment, building, testing, and deploying next-generation electronics. This position requires a strong foundation in both analog and digital electronics, as well as a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and safety in a challenging environment. You will be involved in the maintenance and consolidation of QDS electronics, testing and commissioning systems in the LHC tunnel, and supporting the operation and maintenance of functional test systems for QDS electronics. Your contributions will directly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of CERN's groundbreaking research.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintain and consolidate the quench detection system (QDS) electronics in the LHC tunnel, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Conduct testing and commissioning of QDS systems within the LHC tunnel, adhering to strict safety and operational protocols.
• Provide support for the operation and maintenance of functional test systems for QDS electronics, troubleshooting issues as they arise.
• Collaborate with engineers and other technicians to ensure seamless integration of new technologies and systems.
• Participate in the assembly, basic testing, operation, and routine maintenance of electronic systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Utilize standard laboratory instrumentation for testing and measurement of analog and digital electronic circuits.
• Engage in cable assembly and connectorization, applying basic EMC good practices to ensure system integrity.
• Contribute to team discussions and planning sessions, sharing insights and suggestions for continuous improvement.
• Maintain accurate documentation of work performed, including test results and maintenance logs. 1
• Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols, particularly when working in radiation areas and underground installations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in electronics, specifically in both analog and digital domains. Experience in the assembly of electronic crates and circuit boards is essential, along with familiarity with testing and measurement techniques using standard laboratory instrumentation. A solid understanding of cable assembly and connectorization, along with basic EMC good practices, is also required. Candidates should demonstrate strong team-building skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. A willingness to learn and continuously improve is crucial, as is a basic knowledge of Python, which would be considered an asset. Fluency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learning the basics of the other language.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a general secondary education diploma. Candidates must be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and should have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in Electronics Technician or a related field. Applicants with a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree are not eligible for this position, ensuring that the role is tailored for early-career professionals seeking to gain valuable experience in a prestigious research environment.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have a maximum of two years of professional experience in a relevant field since graduation. This experience should include practical work in electronics, particularly in the assembly, testing, and maintenance of electronic systems. Candidates should be familiar with both analog and digital electronics and have hands-on experience with standard laboratory instrumentation for testing and measurement.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory for this position. Candidates are expected to have a commitment to learning the basics of the other language, which will enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse team at CERN. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered a plus but is not a requirement.

Additional Notes:
This position is fully onsite and involves working in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations. A valid driving license is required. The contract duration is 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the target start date for this position is September 1, 202

• The job closing date for applications is June 10, 2026, at 23:59 CEST. The compensation includes a monthly stipend of 4687 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year and additional benefits such as comprehensive health insurance, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.