CERN - European Organization for Nuclear Research

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.

Job Description

Introduction:

Are you passionate about engineering and eager to contribute to the future of particle accelerators? Join us in building the next generation of superconducting high-field magnets at CERN.

The Magnets, Superconductors and Cryostats (MSC) group in the Technology Department (TE) is responsible for the design, construction, and testing of superconducting and normal conducting magnets for CERN’s accelerator complex. This includes cryostat design, system integration, quality control, and operational support for magnet systems.

Within MSC, the Superconducting Magnet Technology (SMT) section plays a leading role in developing high-field magnet prototypes for future accelerator projects. These advanced systems rely on superconducting materials with complex mechanical and electrical properties, requiring innovative engineering solutions in materials, manufacturing processes, and tooling.

Functions:

As an electromechanical engineer, you will be part of a team focused on the design, development, and validation of new concepts, procedures, and tooling to produce model magnets for CERN’s next-generation superconducting magnets. You will contribute to key prototyping and engineering within the High Field Magnet programme, a global collaboration involving more than 15 laboratories. The ultimate goal is the construction of short model magnets capable of reaching 14 T, as part of the technological R&D for the Future Circular Collider (FCC).

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Magnet design and modelling: taking the lead in the design and first-order modelling of magnetic, mechanical, and quench protection aspects of superconducting magnets.
• Tooling development: defining and driving the development of tooling and assembly procedures required for magnet construction.
• Manufacturing support: overseeing key stages of the production process, including the interpretation and analysis of mechanical measurement data (e.g. strain, geometry) to ensure quality and conformity.
• Design documentation: contributing to technical reports, design reviews, conference papers, and presentations within the group and the broader superconducting magnet community.
• Testing and feedback: participating in cryogenic testing campaigns and translating test results into actionable design and process improvements.

If you're driven by precision engineering and eager to contribute to cutting-edge magnet technology, this is your opportunity to work at the forefront of accelerator innovation.

Qualifications

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of mechanical engineering, electromechanical engineering, applied physics or a related field.

Experience:

• Design and construction of high-field superconducting magnets based on niobium-tin technology.
• Magnetic and mechanical simulations using codes, such as ROXIE, Opera, Ansys or equivalent.
• Analysis of mechanical data (ex. strains) and comparison to expected values.
• Development of first-of-a-kind systems, requiring design work and the construction of mock-ups.
• Participation in testing of superconducting or cryogenic systems, including analysis of test results for design validation.
• Preparing or contributing to technical reports, specifications, or design documentation.

Technical competencies:

• Design and modelling of superconducting magnets.
• Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment: experience in the production and assembly of electromagnets, or similar equipment of high complexity.
• Construction, test and installation of superconducting magnets and systems.
• Measurement and analysis of magnets.

Behavioural competencies:

• Solving problems: recognizing what is essential; discriminating between important and peripheral information and being able to see the whole picture; addressing complex problems by breaking them down into manageable components.
• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind; delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer; creating or participating in forums to exchange experience, comparing techniques and learn from others.
• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships; gaining trust and collaboration from others.
• Managing self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen; working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

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 20.08.2025 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions:

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-MSC-SMT-2025-152-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electromechanical Engineer