Mixed-Signal IC Design Engineer

What you’ll do

Your responsibilities

• Study and define architectures for analogue and mixed-signal circuits that enable high-speed communication systems using silicon photonics.
• Design and verify CMOS circuit blocks such as clock and data recovery (CDR) circuits, high speed clock distribution networks and high-speed analogue-to-digital converters (ADCs).
• Perform laboratory testing, characterisation, and validation of circuits.
• Carry out radiation qualification (single-event effects and total ionising dose) of manufactured devices.

Still here? Let’s make a quick check about

Your profile

• A strong background in digital and analogue electronics, ideally in an IC design environment.
• Familiarity with clock generation and distribution, including fundamentals of DLL, PLL, and CDR circuits.
• The ability to solve engineering problems using a variety of analysis and simulation methods.
• Hands-on experience in the design, testing and debugging of electronic circuits.

Your skills

• Design, simulation and layout of CMOS integrated circuits using Cadence Virtuoso.
• Working knowledge of physical verification flows (DRC, LVS, PEX) using Siemens Calibre or Cadence PVS.
• Knowledge of at least one of the following: optical receiver circuits, high data rate drivers (wireline, laser and/or external modulators), PLL and CDR design, TIA, ADC and DAC design, control systems.
• Working knowledge of at least one programming, scripting, or data analysis language (e.g., Python, Bash, MATLAB).

Employment conditions

• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.

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 and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, 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 CERN Department

of CERN

Ready To apply?

Be prepared with our resources and tips

• Our Hiring Process
• Life at CERN
• Tips for your Application
• Working at CERN
• What happens after you apply?
• More about CERN

All good?

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.