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 a Mechanical Engineer with a passion for challenging and exciting projects in the field of particle physics experiments? Then seize the opportunity and join the ALICE team in CERN’s Experimental Physics Department and contribute to the development and construction of the next generation detectors for the ALICE experiment. You will benefit from the opportunity to broaden your knowledge and experience in new areas, discovering a domain where excellence is the driving factor, and from specific training and support for professional development to foster your skills and develop your talents.

You will join the Experimental Physics (EP) Department which carries out basic research in the field of experimental particle physics in a stimulating scientific atmosphere, standing as an important reference for the European physics community. It also contributes to the education and training of young scientists. Within the EP Department you will be part of the Technical Coordination Office of the CERN ALICE Management & Engineering Support Team. This office is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and enhancement of mechanical infrastructure and detectors for the ALICE experiment.

Functions

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will play an important role in the ALICE upgrade programs, scheduled for the LHC Long Shutdown periods in 2026-2028 (LS3) and 2033-2034 (LS4). As a member of the Technical Coordination team, you will collaborate with skilled engineers, technicians, and designers, working under the guidance of the ALICE Chief Engineer. Specific tasks are the preparation and execution of the detector installation during the LS3 and the design of an entirely new detector system for the ALICE Experiment, which will replace the existing one in LS4.

You will

• Participate in the ALICE detector upgrade program for LS3, specifically the installation of the new beampipe, silicon tracker and forward calorimeter.
• Provide mechanical engineering support and onsite supervision at the experiment site during the programmed maintenance periods.
• Work closely with stakeholders, including detector experts, collaboration members, and technical support teams from CERN and ALICE collaborating institutes.
• Provide engineering support for the ALICE3 upgrade program for LS4: definition of the experiment layout including integration of detectors, services, and all the related infrastructure; design of the new detectors and engineering systems.
• Assume responsibility for the mechanics of the new superconducting magnet, covering design, construction, interfaces, installation, and commissioning.
• Contribute to the preparation of Technical Design Reports (TDRs) for LS4.
• Support the ALICE Technical Coordination team in supervising the designers and technicians during the daily work.

Qualifications

Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of mechanical engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Experience in design, construction, and assembly of mechanical systems.
• Experience in the use of CATIA for cad design.
• Experience in the use of ANSYS for structural analysis.
• Experience in working in a multi-disciplinary team, supervising technical engineers and technicians.
• Experience in coordination of work done by external companies and contractors.            

Technical competencies:

• Design and analysis of mechanical structures.
• Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in solid mechanics: (Finite Element).
• Knowledge and analysis of material failure.
• Knowledge and application of non-metallic composites.
• Production of 2D drawings and 3D models.
• Organisation, planning, and control: coordination of activities involving different technical fields (mechanical work, metallic structures, heavy handling etc.).
• Contract Management.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Demonstrating flexibility: readily accepting new tasks or work/projects; adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.
• Achieving results: driving work / projects along and seeing them through to their conclusion.

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 01.05.2024

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:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Residence in the immediate vicinity of the Organization's installations.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-AIO-2024-31-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Engineer