Mechanical Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With a mission to probe the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study fundamental particles and their interactions. CERN's commitment to diversity and inclusion is a core value, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances innovation and discovery.

Job Overview:
The Mechanical Engineer position is situated within the Mechanical Engineering team of the Physics Department (EP-DI) at CERN, specifically contributing to the DUNE experiment, which is an international collaboration aimed at advancing the field of neutrino physics. The role involves supporting the mechanical design and transport analysis of detector components, which are critical for the success of the DUNE project. The engineer will be responsible for assessing the structural integrity of the DUNE Vertical Drift CRP detectors during their transport from CERN to the United States, ensuring that all components meet the necessary mechanical standards and regulations. This position requires a blend of technical expertise in mechanical engineering and the ability to work collaboratively within a diverse team, as well as a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation in a dynamic research environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Mechanical Engineer will have a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Conducting structural assessments to evaluate the impact on the DUNE Vertical Drift CRP detectors during their transport from CERN to the United States.
• Participating in the CRP transport testing campaign to verify the mechanical integrity and performance of the detectors.
• Creating finite element models to simulate the behavior of the detector components under various conditions.
• Performing static and dynamic finite element analyses to ensure compliance with engineering standards.
• Collaborating with other engineers and scientists within the DUNE project to address any mechanical design challenges that arise.
• Documenting findings and presenting results to the team and stakeholders.
• Engaging in continuous professional development through on-the-job training and formal training opportunities provided by CERN.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Nationality of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• A professional background in engineering or a related field.
• A Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience, or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience.
• Candidates must not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract. Additionally, candidates should possess strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles, and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Educational Background:
The position requires a professional background in engineering, specifically a Master's degree or a PhD in mechanical engineering or a closely related field. The educational qualifications should be complemented by relevant coursework or training in structural analysis, finite element methods, and mechanical design principles.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have between 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience if holding a Master's degree, or up to 3 years of experience if holding a PhD. Experience in structural or civil engineering is essential, with a strong emphasis on finite element analysis (FEA). Familiarity with ANSYS or similar software is preferred but not mandatory. Experience working in an international environment is considered a plus, as it enhances the candidate's ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication at CERN. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is beneficial for integration into the local community and workplace.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered on a contract basis for a duration of 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the target start date for the position is August 1, 202

• The role may involve interventions in underground installations, and a valid driving license is required. The compensation package includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6287 to 6911 Swiss Francs (net of tax), comprehensive health coverage for the employee and their family, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year and will have access to on-the-job training and formal language courses.