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 push the frontiers of science and technology, CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the globe. The organization operates in multiple countries, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration among physicists, engineers, and administrative professionals. Diversity is a core value at CERN, and it remains central to its mission and continued success, ensuring that every contribution is valued and driving a shared sense of inclusion and purpose.

Job Overview:
The position involves joining the tristron design and engineering team at CERN, focusing on the development and fabrication of a tristron prototype aimed at increasing RF power production efficiency. The successful candidate will provide engineering support through structural, thermal, and multiphysics analyses, utilizing both analytical and numerical methods. The role requires proposing and studying design solutions that involve high-temperature refractory materials, complex geometries, and precise manufacturing tolerances. Participation in regular project meetings is expected, where the candidate will present study results and contribute to project advancement. Additionally, the role includes preparing reports and technical documentation to detail the work conducted.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the Mechanical Engineer include joining a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, designers, and fabrication experts to work on the tristron prototype. Key duties involve performing thermomechanical simulations to guide design choices, studying and proposing design concepts that optimize materials and geometries, and supporting fabrication through analyses of proposed manufacturing techniques. Regular reporting of studies and conclusions to the project team through presentations and technical notes is also required. The engineer will be expected to engage actively in project meetings and contribute to the overall advancement of the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have proven experience with finite element analysis software for thermal and structural simulations, such as ANSYS or COMSOL. Experience in designing ductile and brittle materials at both room and high temperatures is essential. Some initial experience with 3D CAD software, like CATIA, is also required. Familiarity with International Standards related to structural equipment design is considered an asset. The candidate should possess strong analytical skills to interpret simulation data and guide design decisions, as well as an understanding of operational failure mechanisms.

Educational Background:
The position requires a professional background in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Candidates should have either 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. It is important that applicants have not previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a solid level of experience in mechanical engineering, particularly in finite element analysis and thermomechanical simulations. A background that includes practical application of design principles for ductile and brittle materials is crucial, along with experience in a multidisciplinary team environment. The role is suited for individuals who can demonstrate their ability to work collaboratively and effectively communicate technical information.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and candidates should be committed to learning French. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 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 position is fully onsite. The target start date for the role is April 1, 202

• The job reference is EN-MME-EDM-2025-262-GRAP. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year and additional benefits such as health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. On-the-job training and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.