Motion Control Engineer

ESD-15520


Imagine what we could learn if we could build a microscope so powerful that it could look deep inside the very materials that the universe is made from. A microscope that could actually let us see the atoms and molecules that substances are made from. Imagine the new discoveries we could make, the new materials we could develop and how much we could learn about ourselves and our universe.

The European Spallation Source is the mother of all microscopes! It is one of the most exciting, innovative and ground-breaking, ”Big Science” projects under construction today. Research with neutrons lies behind some of the most important materials and innovations which improve our everyday lives, our health and our environment – and ESS will be the most powerful neutron microscope when fully operational in 2027.

Others have built telescopes that allow us to look into the deepest regions of space. Now we are building a microscope so powerful it will allow us to the study the smallest objects – atoms – in the finest detail.

Come and build the future of Science with us!

About the role:

The ESS is at an exciting turning point. It is in transition from being a construction site, to being an operating facility. To help us realise our goal of being the most powerful neutron source in the world, we now need an Automation Engineer for the Motion Control & Automation Group (MCAG). The MCAG is responsible for deploying PLC motion control systems to the Neutron Scattering Instruments delivered by European in-kind partners to ESS.

The successful candidate will be part of MCAG’s collaboration in Instrument construction with in-kind partners from across Europe. The position requires an expert in Motion Control and PLC systems especially for the design, procurement, installation, programming, testing and documentation of motion control related components and control systems.

The main areas of responsibilities as an Automation Engineer in this position will be to:


• Lead MCAG’s effort to support and review the MCA related work units of the Instrument construction projects; define processes, workflow and electrical documentation (ePlan).
• Act as ESS MCA key contact person for four Instrument construction projects; plan and lead testing, commissioning and handover of these Instruments to ESS.
• Program and test standardised Beckhoff TwinCAT function blocks in collaboration with European in-kind partners and deploy complete motion control systems to the Instruments.
• Perform the motion control work on a first Instrument as pilot project from construction to support of first users.
• Communicate and link between the different Instruments Teams, MCAG and other groups in and outside ESS.

About you:

The successful candidate will have: 


• A University degree (MSc, BSc) in Electrical or Mechatronics Engineering with a strong focus on Motion Control and Automation.
• Several years of experience in the design, programming and commissioning of PLCs and motion control systems, preferably with Beckhoff TwinCAT.
• Knowledge of scientific instruments and its associated motion control and automation techniques, as well as a good knowledge of motion control components.
• Experience in managing development and construction projects and interfacing with scientists and scientific project managers.
• Experience in leading small project teams and supervising contracted staff.
• Excellent oral and written English skills are a prerequisite.

We truly believe that you are a good communicator and great collaborator. You should be self-motivated and driven, and be used to deliver according to deadlines and milestones. Writing and documenting comes naturally to you, and you have confidence in organising and running efficient and successful meetings. It is important that you feel comfortable working in an international environment and interacting with people from different backgrounds.

What can we offer?

Aside from the chance to work at a truly unique "Big Science" project, you can also expect:


• An opportunity to contribute to the future discoveries within neutron science.
• A stunning, brand new workplace filled with innovative minds and brilliant people from across the globe.
• A challenging, exciting and fast-paced work environment.
• Market competitive compensation that is individual and differentiated according to role, responsibilities, individual skills, abilities and achievements.
• 30 days of annual leave, as well as more than 10 days of public holiday and company days off or days with limited working hours.
• Monthly pension contributions on top of your salary.
• Flexible working arrangements and a real work-life balance.

Interested? We sure hope so.

If you see yourself in what we’re looking for, please provide your CV and motivation letter in English by clicking on “apply” and following the instructions. Please be aware that we can only accept direct applications made via the ESS website. We review applications continuously, so don’t miss out! Submit your application by 19 February, 2023 and quote the job reference number ESD-15520 in your application.

Certain roles at ESS require health and safety checks, which may be required in the final stages of the recruitment process.

For more information regarding the ESS recruitment process, please follow this link https://europeanspallationsource.se/ess-recruitment-process or contact Recruitment Officer Åsa Ander at asa.ander@ess.eu.

For further information regarding the position, please contact the Hiring Manager Thomas Gahl at thomas.gahl@ess.eu

For trade union information, please contact Unionen representative Conny Wendt at conny.wendt@ess.eu or SACO/Swedish Association of Graduate Engineers representative Yngve Levinsen at yngve.levinsen@ess.eu

We look forward to receiving your application soon!