FPGA Developer (SY-RF-LIS-2026-164-GRAE)

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CERN is seeking an FPGA Developer in the Accelerators Systems Department RF Group to help replace vacuum tube based driver amplifiers with solid state RF amplifiers, developing FPGA firmware for interlock and protection systems and creating Python tools for automated measurements and validation across the PS Complex, with hands on lab testing and commissioning in Geneva. What matters most is demonstrable FPGA design experience, preferably in VHDL, familiarity with development environments and debugging tools, and solid Python for test automation; PCB design is a plus. English is required and a willingness to learn French. Eligibility requires CERN Member or Associate Member State status, a maximum of two years post graduation, and a bachelor or master degree; PhDs and prior CERN fellowships are not eligible. To apply, tailor your CV to relevant FPGA projects and RF lab work, quantify interlock or protection experience, show readiness for onsite work in radiation areas, and include a plan for learning French before the 01 July 2026 deadline.

Job Description

In this role, you will join the Accelerators Systems Department (SY) and work within the Radio Frequency (RF) Group, which is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of RF power amplifiers and accelerating cavities. As part of an ongoing consolidation of the RF systems of the CERN Proton Synchrotron (PS), the existing vacuum tube-based driver amplifiers are planned to be replaced by new solid-state RF amplifiers. You will contribute to the development of FPGA firmware for amplifier interlock systems and for rapid fault-detection and protection systems used across the RF systems of the PS Complex. The role also includes supporting the integration and testing of new systems and developing Python tools for automated measurements and hardware validation. The work will involve both laboratory testing and commissioning activities on RF equipment.

Your responsibilities

• Develop FPGA firmware for an interlock and protection system as part of a new solid-state RF amplifier design.
• Support the integration, commissioning, and validation of the new interlock system within the PS RF infrastructure.
• Develop Python-based tools for automated hardware testing, measurements, and data analysis.
• Develop FPGA firmware for rapid fault-detection and protection systems for RF systems across the PS Complex.

Your profile

Required experience:

• Initial experience in FPGA design and firmware development, preferably using VHDL.
• Familiarity with FPGA development environments and verification/debugging tools.
• Basic programming experience in Python or a similar language for test automation and data analysis.

Desired experience:

• Experience with PCB design and electronic circuit development.

Skills

• FPGA programming.
• Knowledge of VHDL.
• Knowledge of C/C++.
• Knowledge of Python.
• Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Eligibility criteria:

• You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• By the application deadline, you have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering (or a related field) and your highest educational qualification is either a Bachelor's or Master's degree.
• You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
• Applicants without University degree are not eligible.
• Applicants with a PhD are not eligible.

Additional Information

Job closing date: 01.07.2026 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-August-2026

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job reference: SY-RF-LIS-2026-164-GRAE

Field of work: Electrical or Electronics Engineering

Benchmark job: 200050 - Electronics Engineer

Global Benefits

• A monthly stipend between 5266-5793 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
• On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

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