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 well-versed in the realms of electromagnetism, electrical engineering, and vacuum equipment? Do you consider finite element simulation and analytical calculations your trusted allies? Are you unflinching in the face of kiloamps coursing through a water-cooled conductor just a few square millimeters in size for a brief but electrifying moment? Could working on the world’s largest machine excite you? Then, it’s time to join the world of pulsed magnets at CERN!

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

You will be working within the Accelerator Beam Transfer (ABT) Group, Septa (SE) Section on challenging projects to support the operation and consolidation of Septa Injection and Extraction systems from the Proton Synchrotron Booster (PSB) up to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). You will also contribute to R&D work in the field of Septum magnets for both CERN’s existing accelerator complex and future accelerators like the ~100km circumference Future Circular Collider (FCC).

Functions

As an Electrical Engineer in the SE Section, you will:

• Take responsibility for the study, design, development, testing, commissioning, exploitation and upgrading of magnetic septum systems for CERN’s present and future accelerators, applying the relevant safety principles;
• Carry out analogue circuit simulations as well as numerical field calculations to produce engineering specifications for system upgrades and future septum magnets;
• Lead the coordination and follow up of projects and take the operational responsibility for individual Septum systems throughout the accelerator complex; this includes the commissioning phase, performance follow-up and maintenance;
• Supervise students and graduates when required.

Qualifications

Master’s degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of electrical engineering, electromechanical engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Experience in finite element computation for electric or electromagnetic fields;
• Proven experience in electromagnet(ic) design;
• Experience with permanent magnets would be an asset;
• Experience with the magnet assembly would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of computational methods and tools in electromagnetism and analogue circuit design;
• Knowledge and application of electromagnetic compatibility, interference and susceptibility;
• Operation and maintenance of septum magnets;
• Design and construction of accelerator injection and extraction magnets;
• Design and modelling of normal conducting magnets.

Behavioural competencies:

• Managing self: actively seeking feedback on own performance and taking steps to improve it; remaining objective, focused and productive in a stressful environment; focusing on solutions rather than problems; working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Demonstrating flexibility: demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supporting initiatives for change; being willing to work on different projects simultaneously; instigating and promoting change as an opportunity for organisational development.
• Communicating effectively: delivering presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusting style and content to the audience; responding calmly and confidently to questions; expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
• Solving problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them; addressing complex problems by breaking them down into manageable components.
• Working in teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific 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 16.01.2024 by midday.

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: 6-7

Job reference: SY-ABT-SE-2023-160-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electrical Engineer