Mechanical Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution 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 the field of particle physics, and it operates in multiple countries, fostering collaboration among scientists from around the globe. The organization is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce is essential for its success.

Job Overview:
The position involves joining CERN’s Superconducting Radiofrequency (SRF) team, where the selected candidate will play a crucial role in designing next-generation cryomodules for future particle accelerators, including the FCC-ee project. The role is set in a multidisciplinary environment that focuses on developing advanced cryogenic and radiofrequency systems, which are at the forefront of accelerator technology. The candidate will participate in the design and integration of SRF cavities and associated systems, taking on a lead role over time. This includes overseeing assembly processes both in clean-room and outside clean-room environments, as well as managing special tooling. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams at CERN and partner laboratories is essential, as is leading cryogenic engineering activities, ensuring that mechanical designs comply with safety and regulatory requirements, particularly for pressure vessels. The candidate will also coordinate design, prototyping, and testing activities with engineering and technical teams, while monitoring progress and sharing results through reports and presentations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities for this position include:

• Participating in the design and integration of cryomodules, including SRF cavities and associated systems.
• Gradually taking up a lead role in the cryomodule design process.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams at CERN and partner laboratories to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Leading cryogenic engineering activities, focusing on thermal performance and safety considerations.
• Ensuring that mechanical designs meet applicable safety and regulatory requirements, particularly for pressure vessels.
• Coordinating design, prototyping, and testing activities with engineering and technical teams.
• Monitoring project progress and sharing results through detailed reports and presentations.
• Participating in regular stand-by duties, including nights, Sundays, and official holidays.
• Working in radiation areas and conducting interventions in underground installations. 1
• Obtaining medical clearance due to occupational health risks associated with the position.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Additionally, candidates must have experience designing cryogenic mechanical systems, knowledge of heat transfer and structural analysis on cryogenic systems, and proficiency with CAD tools such as CATIA, Inventor, or SolidWorks, as well as FEA software. Desired qualifications include experience with cryogenic systems or superconducting technologies, familiarity with pressure vessel design and safety standards, and experience in cleanroom assembly requirements. A background in scientific instrumentation or large research projects is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to perform the duties associated with the position effectively.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in designing cryogenic mechanical systems. This includes a solid understanding of heat transfer and structural analysis specific to cryogenic systems. Experience with CAD tools and FEA software is also essential. Desired experience includes familiarity with cryogenic systems or superconducting technologies, as well as knowledge of pressure vessel design and safety standards. Candidates with a background in scientific instrumentation or large research projects will be preferred.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is proficiency in spoken and written English. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered a valuable asset for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract tenure. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers hybrid flexibility. The role involves participation in regular stand-by duties, including nights, Sundays, and official holidays, and requires work in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations. A valid driving license is necessary, and candidates must be prepared for exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain conditions. Due to the occupational health risks associated with this position, selected candidates must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this position is SY-RF-SRF-2026-94-LD.