Developer for the CMS Level-1 Trigger

What you'll do

In preparation for the High-Luminosity LHC phase, the CMS collaboration is working on an ambitious upgrade of the first stage of its online selection system, the Level-1 (L1) trigger. The upgraded system will use powerful FPGA processors connected through a high-bandwidth network, paving the way for more sophisticated online algorithms such as Particle Flow reconstruction.

By joining the team, you will contribute to the development of these algorithms, their implementation in firmware, and the evaluation of their physics performance.

Your responsibilities

Contribute to the development of algorithms for the CMS Level-1 (L1) trigger.
Integrate and maintain contributions from other developers to support collaborative project development.
Evaluate the physics performance of the algorithms and contribute to the development of monitoring systems.
Participate in the hardware testing and installation of the upgraded trigger system.
Collaborate closely with members of the CMS L1 trigger groups at CERN.
Present project progress and results at collaboration meetings, workshops, and international conferences.
This role includes team supervision responsibilities.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Experience in FPGA firmware development using HDL and High-Level Synthesis (HLS) tools.
Experience in data analysis, preferably in the field of high-energy physics.
Practical experience in developing and applying machine learning solutions to real-world problems.
Experience with Continuous Integration (CI) and quality assurance techniques and tools.
Familiarity with trigger or data acquisition systems and their associated hardware, such as high-speed optical links, would be an advantage.
Your studies focused on Physics.

Your skills

Proficiency in software development using C++, Python, and Git is required.
Knowledge of data analysis tools and techniques, including ROOT and machine learning frameworks, is required.
Experience with the following software and technologies would be an advantage: Vivado Design Suite, Vivado/Vitis High-Level Synthesis (HLS), GitLab, and continuous integration workflows.
Strong collaborative skills and effective communication are essential.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Team supervision

Employment conditions

Interventions in underground installations.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend of either 6372 or 7004 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree and years of post-graduation experience.
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, Croatian and Turkish 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 EP department conducts research in experimental particle physics in close collaboration with and supporting the wider scientific community working at CERN. This includes designing and operating experiments, developing and constructing detectors, acquiring and analysing physics data.

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!

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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.