FPGA Developer

What you'll do

Are you passionate about digital design, digital signal processing, and experimental accelerator physics? Do you want to contribute to the modernisation of CERN’s advanced linear accelerators? If so, this is an exceptional opportunity to bridge laboratory innovations with hands-on commissioning at a world-class facility.

In this role, you will join the Accelerator Systems Department (SY) and work within the Radio Frequency (RF) Group. The group is responsible for the design, operation, and maintenance of the RF acceleration and deflecting systems across the entire CERN accelerator complex. As part of an ongoing consolidation and performance upgrade Low-Level Radio Frequency (LLRF) systems are being modernised. You will contribute directly to the design, prototyping, and implementation of a next-generation digital LLRF cavity controller.

Learn more

Your responsibilities

Develop FPGA firmware implementing precise real-time phase, amplitude, and resonance tuning algorithms.
Design and integrate firmware components and fast diagnostic sub-systems.
Develop Python-based tools and frameworks for automated hardware testing, parameter characterisation, and laboratory data analysis.
Support the integration, laboratory validation, and commissioning of the new low-level cavity controllers directly.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Experience in FPGA design and firmware development, preferably using VHDL.
Familiarity with FPGA development environments and verification/debugging tools.
Programming experience in Python or a similar language for test automation and data analysis.
Experience modeling or simulating digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms or control loops.
Exposure to Radio Frequency (RF) concepts, basic control theory (like PID loops), or electronics hardware debugging.
Familiarity with hardware testing and developing automated test benches for hardware validation.
Your studies focused on Electronics Engineering.

Your skills

Proficiency in digital design and FPGA development, ideally utilising VHDL or Verilog.
Solid programming skills in Python.
Ability to troubleshoot and validate mixed-signal hardware systems.
Knowledge of digital signal processing techniques, such as digital filtering, mixing, or I/Q modulation/demodulation.
Understanding of basic feedback control systems and control theory.
Familiarity with version control workflows using Git and continuous integration (CI).
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/09/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Employment conditions

A valid driving licence.
Work in Radiation Areas.
Interventions in underground installations.
Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month 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.

Let's get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot and Croatian nationals, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
By the application deadline, you have a master’s degree with 2 to 6 years of professional experience since graduation or a PhD with a maximum of 3 years of professional experience since graduation. You are not eligible with only a bachelor’s degree.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

Your CV (English or French)
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The SY department oversees the science and technology related to accelerator technical systems, including beam instrumentation, beam transfer, power converters, particles generation and their interaction with matter, and radio frequency systems. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of new hardware and software for CERN’s accelerator complex.

Overview of CERN

Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

Ready To apply?

Be prepared with our resources and tips

All good?

Apply now Allow 15 minutes to complete your online application

Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
How big would the team be?

The size of the team you'll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
What is the working language at CERN?

The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
What support does CERN provide for relocation?

CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the “Salary, Benefits and Support“ page.
Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
What would my salary be?

Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.