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.

Introduction

Are you a passionate engineer who is at ease with powerful high current equipment? Are you ready to participate in the design, development, production, installation, and commissioning of some of the largest power converters in the world? Take part in the challenge!

The challenge of defining complex powering systems in the context of the High Luminosity LHC phase; delivering very high current (up to 18 kA) to superconductive magnets with very demanding performances (output current controlled with a precision of more than 1 part per million!).

The challenge of designing demanding power electronics systems for particle accelerators.

The challenge of applying your engineering creativity to the whole lifecycle, from specifications to design, commissioning and operation of power systems.

As a Power Electronics Engineer, you will join the Electrical Power Converter Group (TE-EPC) which is responsible for the power converters for the CERN accelerator complex, and the Medium Power Converter Section (TE-EPC-MPC) whose members develop and operate specific power systems. These systems are in the range of 10 kW up to several MW for magnets including those of the LHC injector chain and LHC superconducting magnets.

Functions

To extend its discovery potential, the LHC will need a major upgrade to increase luminosity (rate of collisions) by a factor of 10 beyond its design value. The HL-LHC is the project that will develop these new technologies and be in charge of the design, production, installation, commissioning and operation of the equipment required to reach this objective.

More details on the project can be found here: http://hilumilhc.web.cern.ch/

You will be joining the team in charge of powering the High Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC)!

As a member of the HL-LHC project, you will interact with the different stakeholders of the project in order to:

• Define power converter specifications with particular focus on circuital integration.
• Design and implement the control algorithms for the power converters of the HL-LHC Interaction Regions quadrupoles.
• Participate in the commissioning of the dedicated Inner Triplet String test facility, where test and validation of the powering solutions will be carried out.

As a Power Electronics Engineer you will be a member of the team responsible for the design, development, production, installation and commissioning of new power converters for the LHC, its injectors, as well as their operation and maintenance. Alongside, you will also:

• Select the most suitable topology for each application (energy recovery, low noise, high availability) within the function of expected performances.
• Draw up technical specifications and ensure the follow-up of manufacturing and testing activities in the framework of industrial contracts.
• Ensure the effective reception, integration and commissioning of the new power converters in the LHC and the injectors.
• Participate in the operation and maintenance of power converters.

Master's degree, or equivalent experience in the fields of electronics, electrical engineering, or a related field.

Experience

• Demonstrated experience in power electronics in the power level of 10 kW up to several MW.
• Initial experience of management of projects, from the initial specifications to the final plan.
• Experience in operation, commissioning, or maintenance of power systems would be an advantage.

Technical competencies

• Design and modelling of power electronic components and systems: power design, power electronics topologies, IGBT-Diode-Thyristor modules or Presspacks, system analysis, integration. 
• Use of PSIM or equivalent.
• Construction, testing, and installation of power electronic components and systems.
• Design and implementation of analogue control systems.
• Design and implementation of digital control systems: use of simulation tools (MATLAB/SIMULINK or equivalent).

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations; having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind; objectively assessing and monitoring own work.
• Working in teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities; engaging in open and positive interactions.
• Communicating effectively: ensuring that information, procedures, and decisions are appropriately documented.
• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting; and using time efficiently and effectively.
• Solving problems: producing a range of innovative and workable solutions; finding the information needed to solve problems; making objective judgments based on all the facts available.

Language skills:

• Spoken and written English.
• Basic knowledge of French or an undertaking to acquire it rapidly.

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. (https://home.cern/about/member-states)

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 22.11.2018.

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:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays, and official holidays.
• Work in radiation areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-EPC-MPC-2018-110-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electrical Engineer

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