Test & Measurement Engineer

About the role

In this position, you will play a crucial role in the design, integration, and operation of sophisticated test and measurement systems, particularly in cryogenic, electrical, and control environments. Your contributions will be vital for the characterization and validation of superconducting magnets and associated components, which must meet stringent protection, synchronization, and reliability standards. As part of CERN's Beams Department, you will work within the Controls Electronics and Mechatronics Group, focusing on developing advanced control and data acquisition systems utilizing technologies such as LABVIEW, C++, and Python.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design, develop, and validate software and data acquisition architectures for superconducting magnet test benches, ensuring alignment with functional requirements through to acceptance testing.
• Create, maintain, and integrate applications using C++, Python, LabVIEW, and CERN control technologies, including FESA/CMW interfaces for both front-end and test-bench systems.
• Support the integration of electronics, instrumentation, timing, interlocks, protection, and data acquisition hardware on Linux-based, real-time, and front-end platforms.
• Operate, monitor, debug, and enhance complex superconducting magnet test systems, focusing on cryogenic measurements, high-current/high-voltage tests, fast transients, quench detection, and secure data acquisition.
• Collaborate with various CERN teams involved in magnet technology, powering, protection, cryogenics, electronics, and controls, while documenting and presenting results effectively.
• Advocate for best practices in software engineering, including the use of GitLab, conducting code reviews, implementing automated testing, and ensuring thorough documentation.
• Engage in troubleshooting and resolving issues related to measurement chains, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of test results.
• Participate in training and mentoring junior engineers and interns, fostering a collaborative and knowledge-sharing environment.

Requirements

• A Master's degree, PhD, or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in C++ and Python for software design and development, particularly in data acquisition, automation, testing, analysis, or control applications.
• Proven track record in developing software for hardware control and data acquisition systems, ideally on Linux-based, real-time, or front-end platforms.
• Familiarity with CERN's accelerator control concepts and technologies, such as FESA, CMW, device-property models, and timing systems, is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of electronics, instrumentation, signal conditioning, and troubleshooting measurement chains; experience with LabVIEW, LabVIEW RT, or LabVIEW FPGA is beneficial.
• Understanding of the challenges associated with superconducting magnet or cryogenic/electrical testing, including quench detection and high-voltage protection.

Nice to have

• Experience with the design and modeling of superconductors for magnet applications.
• Familiarity with testing and measurement of front-end electronics for analog sensors and transducers.
• Previous involvement in collaborative projects within multidisciplinary teams.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in C++, Python, and LabVIEW for software development.
• Strong understanding of data acquisition systems and hardware control interfaces.
• Familiarity with Linux-based operating systems and real-time processing environments.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Effective communication skills in English, with a willingness to learn French.

Practical notes

• This position requires working in radiation areas and conducting interventions in underground installations.
• Candidates must be prepared for exposure to electromagnetic fields under specific conditions.
• Due to the occupational health risks associated with this role, medical clearance will be necessary before a contract offer can be finalized.
• The role is a limited duration contract for three years, with the possibility of extension up to eight years and eligibility for an indefinite position.

CERN is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and encourages applications from all Member States and Associate Member States. The deadline for applications is set for August 31, 2026, at 23:59 CEST.

Join CERN and be part of a pioneering organization at the forefront of scientific research. Here, you will have the opportunity to work alongside a diverse team of professionals dedicated to exploring the fundamental aspects of the universe. If you are ready to take on exciting challenges and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries, we invite you to apply and become part of our mission!