Company Description

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.

Job Description

Introduction

Are you a software developer with a feeling for hardware? Do you want to participate in the control of the high-power RF acceleration systems of the CERN accelerators and of the associated feedback systems, being developed using the latest digital technology?

You will join the Accelerator Systems Department (SY), which is responsible for the beam-related technical systems of the CERN accelerators. The SY teams are developing, building, and operating their equipment in all CERN accelerators, and are engaged in ambitious and forward-looking R&D programmes.

You will join the Radio Frequency (RF) Group in the Accelerator Systems (SY) Department, which is responsible for RF technology and the operation of the RF acceleration and transverse damping systems in all the CERN accelerators. A significant part of the RF Group’s activity is dedicated to accelerator upgrades and new projects.

The Servos & Controls Interface Section of the RF Group is a cross-disciplinary team which provides expertise in digital control of the RF systems, including process control with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), real-time control using VMEbus, MicroTCA and PC front-end computers and embedded microcontrollers, and application software running on operator consoles.

Functions

As a Controls Software Developer, you will be working at the interface between hardware developers and the controls and operations teams.

You will more specifically:

• Develop, test and implement:

– Real-time control software in C++ under Linux for digital beam control and feedback systems being developed for new projects across the CERN accelerator complex;

– Software for interfacing the PLCs controlling the high-power RF systems;

– User interfaces for commissioning, surveillance and expert interventions on the RF accelerator equipment.

• Work with hardware developers in other sections of the RF Group to provide tools for efficient firmware and software development;
• Collaborate with the controls and operations groups in the integration of RF equipment into the accelerator control system and the CERN operational software environment;
• Contribute to the operation of the accelerators and RF systems, including participation in the first-line support provided by the group, offering hands-on assistance to ensure seamless integration, troubleshooting, and continuous support to the operations teams;
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of existing systems in close collaboration with internal clients/users and possibly external partners/suppliers.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of computer engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience with C++;
• Experience in the field of the design of real-time, embedded Linux systems would be an advantage;
• Experience in Java or Python would be an advantage.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: C++;
• Development of software for embedded and real-time systems with/without OS: familiarity with Linux;
• Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures;
• Re-use, refactoring, integration and porting of existing software;
• Testing, diagnosing and optimization of software.

Behavioural competencies:

• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.
• Solving problems: finding the information needed to solve problems; making objective judgments based on all the facts available.
• Achieving results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations
• Learning and sharing knowledge: thinking “out of the box” and proposing fresh ideas, insights and methodologies; keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information.
• Demonstrating flexibility: demonstrating openness to new ideas and situations Being willing to work on different projects simultaneously.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to draw-up technical reports and to make oral presentations in at least one of the two languages.

Additional Information

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 CEST midday 19.02.2024.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

These functions require:

• 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.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: SY-RF-CS-2023-177-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Computing Technical Engineer