Job Description
You will drive the evolution of high-precision, Ethernet-enabled data acquisition (EDAQ) systems using modern Cortex-M microcontrollers, ensuring sub-microsecond synchronisation accuracy across distributed infrastructures.
Your role will span from maintaining and advancing our firmware codebase to deploying operational solutions for HL-LHC and testbenches, while pioneering R&D in Gbit Ethernet, wireless technologies, and ultra-precise timing protocols.
Your responsibilities:
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Develop and maintain firmware for high-precision, Ethernet-enabled embedded systems based on Cortex-M microcontrollers.
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Implement and optimise features for real-time data acquisition and sub-microsecond synchronisation across distributed infrastructures.
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Deploy, test, and troubleshoot embedded solutions in operational environments, including testbenches and large-scale systems.
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate embedded systems with broader data acquisition and control infrastructures.
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Conduct R&D on Gbit Ethernet, wireless communication protocols, and advanced timing synchronisation techniques.
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Participate in code reviews, documentation, and continuous improvement of firmware libraries and tools.
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Support system commissioning, performance analysis, and troubleshooting in collaboration with hardware and software teams.
Your profile:
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Solid understanding of embedded systems and microcontroller architectures, particularly Cortex-M.
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Strong experience with firmware development in C/C++ for embedded platforms.
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Exposure to Ethernet communication protocols and real-time data acquisition concepts.
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Exposure in hardware-software integration, including debugging and testing embedded systems.
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Basic knowledge of version control systems (e.g., Git) and collaborative development workflows.
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Strong problem-solving skills and eagerness to work in a cross-disciplinary team environment.
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Basic knowledge of electronics production and testing.
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Experience working with RTOS would be an advantage.
Skills:
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C/C++ for embedded systems development.
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Knowledge of microcontroller architectures, especially Cortex-M and RISC-V (e.g., MI-V).
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Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git).
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Basic electronics and PCB design skills (e.g., Altium).
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Python for testing, automation, and deployment scripts.
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Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.
Eligibility criteria:
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You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
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You have a professional background in Electronics Engineering (or a related field) and have either:
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a Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience;
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or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience.
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You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
Additional Information
Job closing date: 21.06.2026 at 23:59 CEST.
Contract duration: 24 months, with a possible extension up to 36 months maximum.
Working hours: 40 hours per week
Job flexibility: Fully Onsite
Target start date: 01-September-2026
This position involves:
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Work in Radiation Areas.
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Interventions in underground installations.
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A valid driving licence.
Job reference: TE-MPE-IQ-2026-89-GRAP
Field of work: Electrical or Electronics Engineering
Benchmark job: 200050 - Electronics Engineer
Global Benefits
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A monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
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30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
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Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
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Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
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A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
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Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
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On-the-job and formal training including language classes.
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