Cryogenic Engineer for Future Circular Collider (TE-CRG-OP-2024-175-LD)

Company Description

At CERN, the European Organization 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. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Job Description

Introduction

Come and join the team managing the CERN’s cryogenic facilities and designing the future ones. A great opportunity to work on technologies and equipment unique in the world. It is challenging and exciting place to work. Take part!  

CERN is the world's largest high energy physics laboratory and its flagship accelerator, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) depends on having an unrivalled set of cryogenic systems. Having entered its phase II in early 2021, the Future Circular Collider (FCC) study is capitalizing on the work of the Conceptual Design Report (CDR), issued in 2019, to refine its results regarding the architecture of the cryogenic systems of both FCC-ee (lepton) and -hh (hadron) machines, aiming at issuing a Feasibility Report, which shall serve as input for the next ESPP (European Strategy Particle Physics) Update in 2026/2027. 

For the specific case of the cryogenic system, recent developments within the study triggered the necessity to update the CDR for both FCC-ee and FCC-hh configurations, including the feasibility assessment for an FCC-hh option working with Nb3Sn superconducting magnets operating at 4.5 K. 

Functions

As an engineer in the FCC Cryogenics Studies Working Group, you will: 

• Analyse and review the first phase of the FCC study dealing with its cryogenic systems, including the preliminary design for helium cryogenic plants used in the FCC-ee (electron), FCC-hh (hadron), and Machine-Detector Interface (MDI).  

• Gather and assess the heat loads to be managed by the cryogenic system for the -ee, -hh and MDI configuration of the machine;

• Integrate and refine the cryogenic layout for the second phase of the study by applying the latest cryogenic system designs, which will be a core part of the upcoming reports. Review the associated helium inventory, energy consumption and operation scenario in an energy savings perspective; 

• Explore alternative configurations for the FCC-hh by studying the possible configurations of an FCC-hh working with Nb3Sn magnets operating at 4.5 K; 

• Lead new engineering studies with industry partners to validate the proposed cryogenic cooling solutions for the FCC-hh superconducting magnets and MDI while looking for technical risk items and innovative technologies, which will require development to supply sustainable and efficient large-scale cryoplants;

• Participate in the day-to-day cryogenic operations of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) to gain practical, hands-on experience that will inform the FCC cryogenics design.

Qualifications

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

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in the design, manufacturing follow-up and monitoring of industrial processes and/or in the field of commissioning and operation of complex electromechanical plant; 

• Experience in dealing with complex industrial processes, involving cryogenics or vacuum technologies, would be a major asset; 

• Experience in project and contract management including in quality assurance management and control, would be an asset. 

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of thermodynamics and energetics: knowledge of cooling process and regulation.
• Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in fluid mechanics and/or heat transfer
• Project management
• Design and analysis of refrigeration processes and plants. 
• Commissioning and operation of large-scale cryogenic systems and ancillary infrastructure.  

Behavioural competencies:

• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting
• Learning and Sharing Knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer
• Achieving Results: delivering prompt and efficient service taking into account customer needs
• Working in Teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities

Language skills:

Ability to speak and write English in professional context, and the willingness to learn French.  

Additional Information

Eligibility and closing date:

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.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 10th of January 23.45 Geneva time. 

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 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 Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-CRG-OP-2024-175-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Engineer

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