Electronics Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific 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 position of Electronics Engineer at CERN involves driving the evolution of high-precision, Ethernet-enabled data acquisition systems using modern Cortex-M microcontrollers. The role requires maintaining and advancing the firmware codebase while deploying operational solutions for the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) and associated testbenches. The engineer will also be involved in pioneering research and development in Gbit Ethernet, wireless technologies, and ultra-precise timing protocols. This position is crucial for ensuring sub-microsecond synchronization accuracy across distributed infrastructures, which is vital for the success of CERN's experiments and projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Electronics Engineer will be responsible for developing and maintaining firmware for high-precision, Ethernet-enabled embedded systems based on Cortex-M microcontrollers. Key responsibilities include implementing and optimizing features for real-time data acquisition and sub-microsecond synchronization across distributed infrastructures. The engineer will deploy, test, and troubleshoot embedded solutions in operational environments, including testbenches and large-scale systems. Collaboration with cross-functional teams to integrate embedded systems with broader data acquisition and control infrastructures is essential. The role also involves conducting research and development on Gbit Ethernet, wireless communication protocols, and advanced timing synchronization techniques. Participation in code reviews, documentation, and continuous improvement of firmware libraries and tools is expected, along with supporting system commissioning, performance analysis, and troubleshooting in collaboration with hardware and software teams.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a solid understanding of embedded systems and microcontroller architectures, particularly Cortex-M. Strong experience with firmware development in C/C++ for embedded platforms is required, along with exposure to Ethernet communication protocols and real-time data acquisition concepts. Familiarity with hardware-software integration, including debugging and testing embedded systems, is essential. Basic knowledge of version control systems (e.g., Git) and collaborative development workflows is necessary. Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to work in a cross-disciplinary team environment are important. Basic knowledge of electronics production and testing is also required, and experience working with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) would be advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates should 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 a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. It is important that candidates have never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract before applying for this position.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a professional background in Electronics Engineering or a related field, with specific experience in firmware development and embedded systems. The ideal candidate will have 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience if holding a Master's degree, or up to 3 years of experience if holding a PhD. This experience should include practical work in embedded systems, firmware development, and collaboration in cross-functional teams.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered beneficial for integration into the workplace and community.

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 a possible extension of up to 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 compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs per month, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.