LHC Engineer-in-Charge

LHC Engineer-in-Charge (BE-OP-LHC-2020-47-LD)

Geneva, Switzerland
Contract


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
Would you like to take responsibility in the CERN Control Centre for the effective and safe operation of the LHC during commissioning, operation and machine development? Take part!

We are looking for two profiles for Engineers in Charge in the Beams department; one is more software development focused, the other is more accelerator physics focused.

The Operations Group is responsible for the operation of the CERN accelerator complex and its technical infrastructure, including the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), running a varied proton, antiproton and heavy ion experimental programme.

In 2020, the LHC machine will be cooled down and recommissioned after its second long shutdown before moving into a four-year long beam operation period. With its injectors upgraded for the High Luminosity LHC area, the LHC is expected to operate with intensities significantly higher than during the previous operation periods. Operating with such beams will present many challenges; you will contribute as a member of the operation team to establish stable and safe operation of the LHC in this new regime.

The LHC high-level control system, which comprises servers and applications written predominantly in the JAVA language, is a key ingredient for efficient and safe operation. A large number of applications are developed and maintained by the LHC operation team following evolving requirements, in particular in preparation for the LHC luminosity upgrade. You will contribute to the modelling of the CERN accelerators within the control system, the integration of new components and the implementation of new operational requirements. This activity will be performed in close collaboration with the Beams Department Controls Group and with the Accelerator Sector equipment groups.

Functions

As an Engineer-in-Charge, you will:
- Be part of the 24/7 shift team which runs CERN's accelerator complex.
- Oversee operation of the LHC during all operational phases: equipment and beam commissioning, regular operation and machine development.
- Acquire a thorough knowledge of the various accelerator hardware systems and associated controls software, as well as the underlying accelerator physics of LHC operation.
- Take initiative in the optimisation of the LHC performance and its high-level control software.
- For the software-focused position, you will be required, outside of shift work, to work in collaboration with the Beams Department, Controls (BE-CO) Group and Accelerator Sector equipment groups to develop high-level control software for the LHC and possibly for the other CERN accelerators.


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

Experience:
The main requirement for this post is experience in commissioning, control or operation of accelerators and accelerator systems.

We require a minimum of 3 of the following:
- Experience of accelerator physics.
- Experience of software development in Java or Python (strong development experience for the software-focused position is necessary).
- Experience with modern software development techniques and principles.
- Experience with control systems and data analysis techniques.
- Experience with design and construction of components for accelerators.

Technical competencies:
- Operation of accelerators
- Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures: (extensive knowledge for software-focused position is necessary)
- Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: in particular Java and Python
- Knowledge and application of accelerator physics theory
- Analysis and optimization of accelerator performance

Behavioural competencies:
- Solving Problems: finding the information needed to solve problems; making objective judgments based on all the facts available
- Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind Following through on new ideas and innovations; planning and implementing application
- Communicating Effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented Demonstrating a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addressing issues of conflict constructively
- Working in Teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships Working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities


Language skills:
Spoken and written English or French: ability to draw up technical texts in one of the two languages. A willingness to learn the other language rapidly.


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. 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 03.04.2020

Employment Conditions
Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

These functions require:
- Work in Radiation Areas.
- Shift work, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
- Interventions in underground installations.
- A valid driving licence is required.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: BE-OP-LHC-2020-47-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

Please make sure you have all the documents needed to hand as you start your application, as once it is submitted, you will not be able to upload any documents or edit your application further