Mechanical Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is at the forefront of scientific research and technological advancement. Established in 1954, CERN has grown to become one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research, employing thousands of professionals from various fields including physics, engineering, and administration. With a mission to push the boundaries of knowledge and understanding of the universe, CERN operates in multiple countries and collaborates with numerous international institutions. The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment, where innovation and collaboration are paramount to its success.

Job Overview:
The position within the Geodetic Metrology Group (BE-GM) focuses on providing metrology and alignment for accelerator components, beam lines, and experiments at CERN. The role involves contributing to Future Projects by preparing technical foundations for upcoming facilities through studies, simulations, and prototyping. The successful candidate will engage in developing gravity field models specifically for the 91 km tunnel of the Future Circular Collider (FCC) and support the sub-millimetric alignment of accelerator components and detectors. Additionally, the role includes collaboration with CERN-Swisstopo to compute the quasi-geoid model necessary for Switzerland's New Height System, which is crucial for accurate geodetic measurements and applications.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of this position include computing and validating a state-of-the-art quasi-geoid model that encompasses the FCC area and Switzerland. The candidate will explore and propose innovative solutions for modeling equipotential surfaces within tunnels, which is essential for the alignment of accelerator components. Participation in field observation campaigns, including gravity, GNSS, leveling, and astro-geodetic measurements, is required to fill data gaps or validate the computed models. Furthermore, the role involves developing a gravity field modeling software package by integrating existing tools with new features tailored for the project. The position also includes supervisory responsibilities, requiring the candidate to lead and mentor team members effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of physical geodesy and gravity field theory. Experience in regional gravity field modeling using software such as GRAVSOFT, GROOPS, KTH, SHGEO, or similar methods is highly desirable. Proficiency in object-oriented programming, particularly in Python and/or C++, is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent organizational and communication skills, a strong sense of responsibility, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. Additionally, strong analytical and problem-solving skills are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a professional background in Topography, Geodesy, Surveying, Geomatic, or a related field. Candidates should hold either a Master's degree accompanied by 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 level of experience required for this position varies based on educational background. Candidates with a Master's degree should have between 2 to 6 years of relevant professional experience, while those with a PhD should have no more than 3 years of post-graduation experience. This ensures that the candidate has sufficient practical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the projects at CERN.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language being a requirement. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication within the diverse environment at CERN, where collaboration across different language speakers is common.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is initially set for 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are 40 hours per week, and the job offers flexibility with a hybrid working model. The target start date for this position is May 1, 202

• Additional requirements include holding a valid driving license and the willingness to work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays as needed by the organization. The compensation package includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances.