Introduction

At CERN, helium needs to flow like water from a tap. CERN is the world's largest particle physics laboratory and its flagship accelerator, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), depends on having an unrivalled set of cryogenic systems on hand to guarantee reliable operation. To sustain and extend its discovery potential, the LHC is undertaking a major upgrade, known as High Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) for which new large-scale cryogenic infrastructure and test facilities will be required.

The Cryogenics Group (TE-CRG) is in charge of the design, construction, commissioning and operation of the cryogenic systems for CERN accelerators, detectors and test facilities. It also provides support for low-temperature developments and tests at the Central Cryogenic Laboratory as well as consultancy and support in cryogenic design and cryogenic instrumentation.

For more information on the CERN Cryogenics group, please consult: https://te-dep.web.cern.ch/cryogenics-crg

For more information on the HL-LHC project, please consult: http://hilumilhc.web.cern.ch/

Functions

As a Mechanical Engineer in the Technology Department (TE), Cryogenics Group (CRG), Mechanical and Engineering support section (ME) and as a member of the project team for the HL-LHC IT test facility, you will:

• Perform functional analysis of the cryogenic process to fulfil the system requirements;
• Carry out thermo-hydraulic and thermo-mechanical design and analysis of cryogenic equipment;
• Draw-up technical specifications of cryogenic components and distribution systems. Carry out market surveys, material procurement and production follow-up;
• Define and follow the commissioning of cryogenic systems. Analyse the system performance and write the corresponding technical reports;
• Manage the cryogenics project and associated technical documentation for the Quality Assurance Plan.

Master’s Degree or PhD/doctorate or equivalent relevant experience  in  the  field  of mechanics, thermodynamics or system engineering, or equivalent.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in thermo-hydraulic and thermo-mechanical design and/or in the field of installation and commissioning of cryogenic or complex industrial plants.
• Initial experience in contributing to the management of industrial projects with associated quality assurance.
• Experience with complex industrial processes, involving cryogenics or vacuum technologies, would be a major asset.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of thermodynamics: heat transfer & fluid mechanics. 
• Design, analysis and optimization of thermal systems
• Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in fluid mechanics and/or heat transfer
• Design and analysis of mechanical structures: and pressurised vessels.
• Project management

Behavioural competencies:

• Solving problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.
• Achieving results: delivering prompt and efficient service taking into account customer needs.
• Working in teams: seeking to help other team members when own work is done; supporting others Working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting Remaining objective, focussed and productive in a stressful environment; focusing on solutions rather than problems.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in English.

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 13.12.2022 at midnight CET.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (4 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

These functions require:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence is required.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Shift work, 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-ME-2022-152-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Engineer