Test Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading research institution established in 195

• It is located in Geneva, Switzerland, and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics. CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world, representing more than 100 nationalities. The organization operates in multiple countries and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.

Job Overview:
The Test Engineer position at CERN is a pivotal role within the Experimental Physics Department, focusing on the development of advanced detector technologies for future High Energy Physics experiments. The successful candidate will engage in the evaluation and qualification of a prototype high-speed, radiation-tolerant communication ASIC, which is integral to a Silicon Photonics system designed to deliver a 100 Gbps data stream. This role requires a blend of hands-on electronics lab skills and theoretical knowledge, as the engineer will be responsible for bringing up new hardware, constructing robust test setups, and generating high-quality measurement results that will inform design iterations and qualification processes. The position also involves working with cutting-edge technologies at the intersection of electronics and photonics, contributing to the advancement of particle physics research.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Test Engineer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including defining and executing electrical and functional test plans for ASIC prototypes, which encompass bring-up, debugging, and characterization. The engineer will also develop FPGA firmware and Python tools aimed at automating tests, acquiring data, and analyzing results. Additionally, the role involves designing, reviewing, or improving high-speed test hardware, such as PCBs and fixtures, while considering signal integrity. The Test Engineer will plan and support radiation qualification campaigns, which include conducting Single Event Effects (SEE) and Total Ionising Dose (TID) experiments, ensuring that the prototypes meet the necessary standards for operation in extreme environments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Test Engineer position must possess strong hands-on electronics lab skills, including proficiency with instrumentation, debugging, and careful measurement practices. Experience in FPGA development, Python programming for automation, data acquisition, and analysis, as well as high-speed PCB design and simulation, is essential. A structured and rigorous approach to engineering work is required, emphasizing test methodology, data quality, and clear documentation. Familiarity with radiation qualification processes and ASIC design is advantageous, as is knowledge of the Ethernet networking stack. The ability to produce clear technical documentation, including test plans and review-ready reports, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate will have a professional background in Electronics Engineering or a related field. A Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience is required, or alternatively, a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. Candidates must also be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and should not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a solid level of experience in electronics engineering, particularly in areas related to high-speed communication systems and radiation-tolerant technologies. The experience should ideally include hands-on work in electronics labs, FPGA development, and familiarity with high-speed PCB design and testing methodologies. Candidates with a background in radiation qualification and ASIC design will be viewed favorably, as these experiences are directly relevant to the responsibilities of the role.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language at CERN. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is beneficial for integration into the local community and workplace.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 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 role offers hybrid working flexibility. The target start date for this position is July 1, 202

• The job may require work in radiation areas and during nights, Sundays, and official holidays, depending on the needs of the organization. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and various allowances based on individual circumstances.