Electronics Engineer (SY-RF-LL-2025-71-LD)

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.

Introduction

Are you an Electronics Engineer interested in design, production, installation and operation of complex electronic systems? Are you interested in how RF electronics helps to accelerate the beams of particles? Take part! 

You will join the Accelerator Systems Department (SY), which develops and commissions the beam-related technical systems of CERN's accelerator complex. Our teams design, build, and operate advanced equipment across all CERN accelerators while spearheading ambitious R&D initiatives. 

Within this Department, you will become part of the Radio-Frequency group, specifically the Low-Level RF (LLRF) section, focusing on the design, development, and commissioning of cutting-edge RF systems for the accelerator chain. A significant part of our mission is ensuring the smooth and reliable 24/7 operation of these systems—both existing and future—while continuously improving their performance. 

One position will also be more specific to joining a team in the context of the AWAKE 2c upgrade; the next phase in CERN's Advanced Proton-Driven Plasma Wakefield Experiment. The upgrade aims to demonstrate high-efficiency and high-gradient acceleration of electron beams over long distances using plasma wakefields.

Functions

In this context you will: 

• Define the architecture and specifications of RF systems, guiding their development from concept to implementation; 
• Lead the design of complex mixed-signal systems, integrating FPGAs, RF front-end components, and signal processing technologies operating at RF frequencies up to several GHz; 
• Develop advanced testing and validation strategies to ensure system stability, precision, reliability, and performance;
• Oversee the commissioning, operation, and optimization of existing LLRF systems, such as beam control and RF cavity feedback systems;
• Manage the procurement, production, and quality assurance of hardware, coordinating collaborations with suppliers and in-house teams; 
• Contribute to projects within the RF group and foster collaborations with users across CERN's community;
• Supervise and mentor junior colleagues. 

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of electronics engineering, applied physics or a related field.

Required experience:

• Experience in radio frequency (RF) electronics design. 
• Proven experience in the design and simulation of digital control loops and feedback systems. 
• Initial experience in the conceptualisation, design, and development of complex electronic modules, with a focus on digital and mixed-signal systems based on programmable logic devices (FPGAs). 
• Proficiency in using modern test instruments, including digital oscilloscopes, signal analysers, and RF instrumentation. 
• Experience with scripting languages such as Python. 

Desired experience: 

• Radio frequency electronics design in the GHz frequency range;
• Existing experience with Xilinx devices and toolchain (including Vivado, ISE, System generator, HLS).

Technical competencies:

• Design and simulation of FPGA-based electronics;
• Design and simulation of analog electronic circuits;
• Design and simulation of digital control loops and feedback systems;
• Design, construction and testing of low-level RF components and systems.

Behavioural competencies:

• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Communicating effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented; expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
• Working in teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information.
• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind; driving work / projects along and seeing them through to their conclusion.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

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. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 18.05.2025 at 23:59 CET.

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.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SY-RF-LL-2025-71-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electronics Engineer