Software Engineer for Low-Level Programming

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 a mission to probe the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study fundamental particles and their interactions.

Job Overview:
The position is situated within the Beams department, specifically in the Controls Electronics and Mechatronics (CEM) group, which is tasked with the control of Beam Intercepting Devices within the CERN accelerator complex. The primary focus of this role is on low-level programming for mechatronic controls. The successful candidate will be responsible for defining the control software architecture and developing firmware and low-level software for innovative projects such as the LHC Collimators, FRAS, and RAC3 control systems, utilizing the SaMbuCa framework. Additionally, the role involves implementing algorithms for precision motion control and signal acquisition from sensors associated with Beam Intercepting Devices, leveraging System on Chip (SoC), CPU, and microcontroller technologies, particularly from the Texas Instruments family.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities for this position include:

• Defining and developing the control software architecture for various projects within the CEM group.
• Developing firmware and low-level software for the LHC Collimators, FRAS, and RAC3 control systems.
• Implementing algorithms for precision motion control of Beam Intercepting Devices.
• Acquiring signals from sensors and ensuring accurate data processing.
• Conducting hardware functional testing and software unit testing to ensure reliability and performance.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate software solutions with hardware components.
• Documenting software development processes and maintaining clear communication with project stakeholders.
• Participating in on-the-job training and formal training programs offered by CERN.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in low-level and embedded programming, with a particular emphasis on proficiency in C programming. Experience in architecture design best practices is essential, along with familiarity with assembly programming languages. Candidates should also have experience in hardware functional testing and software unit testing. Knowledge of power electronics is considered beneficial for this role. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate a commitment to learning and improving language skills, particularly in English and French.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a professional background in Software Engineering or a related field. Educational qualifications include either a Master's degree accompanied by 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. It is important that candidates have not previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
Candidates are expected to have a professional background that aligns with the requirements of the position. Specifically, those with a Master's degree should have between 2 to 6 years of relevant experience, while PhD holders should have up to 3 years of experience in a related field. This experience should ideally include work in low-level programming and embedded systems.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory for this position. Candidates should also be committed to learning the basics of the other language to facilitate effective communication within the diverse CERN environment.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position 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, with a target start date of September 1, 202

• The job reference for this position is BE-CEM-MRO-2025-71-GRAP. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6287 to 6911 Swiss Francs (net of tax), along with comprehensive health coverage for the employee and their family, membership in the CERN Pension Fund, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year and will have access to both on-the-job and formal training opportunities, including in-house language courses.