Introduction

With a total of 130 km of vacuum vessel, CERN operates one of the largest vacuum systems in the world. Are you interested in performing chemical analysis for diagnostics, quality control and R&D for this unique accelerator infrastructure? Then come and join the Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings Group! Take part!

The Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings Group is responsible for all high and ultra-high vacuum systems for the CERN accelerators. Its mandate covers all activities from development to operation, including design, production and procurement, surface engineering and analysis, acceptance tests, control and monitoring. The Surface Coatings and Chemistry section (SCC) takes care of surface and chemical analyses, thin film coatings by PVD and surface finishing.

Functions

Within the VSC Group of the TE Department, you will:

• Perform chemical analyses of different materials, including polymers and metallic alloys, by operating the wide range of instruments of the chemistry laboratory at CERN.
• Discuss with CERN collaborators requesting chemical analyses to define the methods of sampling, the analyses, and their schedule.
• Collaborate with the team in charge of surface finishing for the chemical analyses related to quality control and developments.
• Document the results in technical and scientific reports.
• Contribute to some R&D projects related to chemistry in the domain of accelerator technology, including qualification of innovative gases and liquids for electronics refrigeration, monitoring of cleanliness for ultra-high-vacuum applications.
• Participate in the maintenance of the chemistry laboratory equipment.

Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of chemistry or a related field.

Experience:

• Proven experience of chemical analytical methods applied to organic and inorganic compounds, gases, liquids and solids, including FTIR, GC-TCD, GC-MS, ICP-OES, TG-DCS, XRF and classical wet chemistry methods.
• Industrial experience or equivalent experience in research laboratory would be an advantage.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of chemical, electro-chemical and radio-chemical analysis
• Knowledge of physico-chemical properties of materials and characterization methods.
• Knowledge of chemical and electrochemical surface finishing techniques would be an advantage.

Behavioural competencies:

• Working in teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Communicating effectively: providing others with timely information; ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Working in the interest of the organization: actively promoting safety and encouraging others to do the same; respecting safety rules and procedures; giving personal best in all activities.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in routine situations.

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 February 1st 2023 at midnight (12.00 AM CET). 

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.
• 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: 4-5

Job reference: TE-VSC-SCC-2022-169-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Material Science/Chemical Technical Engineer