Mechanical Engineer for Detector Design and Construction

Company Description
At CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

Job Description

Introduction

Are you ready to help shape the next generation of particle detectors at the forefront of high-energy physics? As a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer with a passion for complex, high-precision systems, you will have the unique opportunity to contribute to the construction of cutting-edge tracking systems for the High Luminosity upgrade of the LHC. Joining the Detector Technologies (DT) group of the Experimental Physics (EP) department at CERN, you will take part in the design and assembly of the new Tracker for the CMS experiment: the Tilted Tracker Barrel with Pixel-Strip modules (Tilted TBPS) - an advanced system built from silicon detector modules mounted on lightweight, high-performance carbon-fibre composite structures. These will be cooled using innovative two-phase CO circuits and connected through custom-designed electrical and optical links.

Functions

As a Mechanical Engineer you will:

• design mechanical structures and services for this sub-detector and its neighbouring TB2S sub-detector; in particular, you will be responsible for the design, manufacture, and quality control of cooling circuitries that must operate flawlessly with high-pressure two-phase CO2;
• be in charge of the timely availability and validation of components needed for the integration of the Tilted TBPS; this includes organising necessary logistics and related scheduling, documentation and communication with the component suppliers and users at CERN and elsewhere;
• establish detector integration procedures, validate them with mock-ups and manage their execution and quality control in the CMS Tracker Integration Facility (TIF) on the CERN Meyrin site;
• participate in the final integration of the Tilted TBPS with its neighbouring sub-detectors in the TIF and in the final installation of the new Tracker in the CMS experimental cavern;
• develop and maintain engineering and production data repositories and support their use;
• you will also coordinate the work of corresponding CERN personnel, collaborate closely with different Tracker groups, and facilitate the integration of colleagues from collaborating institutes who will join the Tilted TBPS integration effort at CERN.

Qualifications

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Experience:

This post requires demonstrated experience in the following areas:

• construction and assembly of mechanical systems; experience with high-pressure fluid systems and fibre-reinforced composite materials would be an advantage;
• preparation and management of complex 3D models of large CAD assemblies; experience with CATIA V5 would be an advantage;
• preparation of manufacturing drawings, according to ISO standards;
• structural analysis, including finite-element methods and analytical calculations; experience with ANSYS is a plus.

Initial experience in the following is considered an advantage:

• maintenance of websites and CAD data repositories;
• working in multi-disciplinary teams, including activities in workshops and assembly sites.

Technical competencies:

• design and analysis of mechanical structures;
• production of 2D drawings and 3D models;
• knowledge and application of numerical modelling in solid mechanics;
• manufacturing of mechanical parts.

Behavioural competencies:

• achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships;
• demonstrating flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements;
• solving problems: producing workable and timely solutions that meet requirements;
• managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Additional Information

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 26.06.2025 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions

• Contract type: Limited duration contract (3 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.
• Working Hours: 40 hours per week
• This position involves:
  • Work in Radiation Areas.
  • Interventions in underground installations.
  • A valid driving licence.
  • Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
  • Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organisation.