Engineer in the Superconducting Radio-Frequency Section

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research organization established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. It employs physicists and engineers who utilize the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's mission is to advance knowledge in particle physics and to provide insights into the fundamental laws of nature. The organization operates in multiple countries and has a diverse workforce, emphasizing the importance of diversity in its mission since its foundation.

Job Overview:
The position of Engineer in the Superconducting Radio-Frequency Section at CERN involves joining a multidisciplinary team dedicated to advancing accelerator technology. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and developing key RF components for the new 400 MHz Demonstrator Cryomodule. This role is crucial for contributing to innovations that will shape the future of particle physics. The Engineer will work within the Accelerator Systems Department, which oversees beam-related technical systems across all CERN accelerators. The position requires collaboration with various teams to ensure the successful development and implementation of RF power components, particularly focusing on the design and optimization of Fundamental Power Couplers (FPC) and High Order Mode (HOM) extraction couplers, which are essential for RF power transmission to accelerator SRF cavities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Engineer will take a significant role in the mechanical design of FPCs and HOM couplers, which includes selecting materials and manufacturing technologies. The responsibilities also encompass performing coupled RF, thermal, and mechanical simulations across all operating conditions, from room temperature to cryogenic levels below 4.5 K, with the aim of optimizing designs for efficiency and reliability. The Engineer will contribute to the design, construction, and operation of test stations for RF conditioning and high-power qualification. Additionally, overseeing the production and assembly of prototypes, including preparing specifications, cleanroom procedures, quality control, and documentation, will be part of the role. The Engineer will also support cryogenic qualification testing on single cavities and full assemblies, collaborate with internal and external teams, and report progress while presenting results at workshops and conferences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or PhD in electrical or mechanical engineering or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience. They should have demonstrated experience in mechanical and electrical engineering aspects of RF equipment applied to scientific instruments. Familiarity with electromagnetic simulation tools for evaluating RF fields, power dissipation, and multipacting effects is essential, along with experience in mechanical and thermal finite element computations and computer-aided design software. The ability to coordinate multidisciplinary projects for scientific instruments, covering the full lifecycle from conceptual design through to RF testing and qualification, is also required. Experience in preparing technical specifications, technical reports, and publishing papers in international conferences is highly valued.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or PhD in electrical or mechanical engineering or a related field is required for this position. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their understanding of RF techniques and engineering principles relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in the field of RF equipment, particularly in mechanical and electrical engineering aspects applied to scientific instruments. Candidates should have a proven track record of coordinating multidisciplinary projects, covering the entire lifecycle from design to testing and qualification of RF systems.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the other language being essential for effective communication within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility for holders of limited-duration contracts to apply for an indefinite position. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job is fully onsite. The role involves participation in regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays, and official holidays, as well as work in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations. A valid driving license is required, and candidates must obtain medical clearance due to the occupational health risks associated with the position. The job grade is classified as 6-7.