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.
Job Description
Introduction
Are you eager to contribute to the next generation of superconducting technologies that power CERN's world-leading accelerators? Join us as an Electromechanical Technician in the Magnets, Superconductors and Cryostats Group (MSC) of the Technology Department (TE).
The MSC Group designs, constructs, and measures the superconducting and normal conducting magnets for the CERN accelerator complex; develops magnet cryostats; performs magnet quality controls; and provides critical support to accelerator operations.
Within MSC, the Low Temperature Superconductors and Characterization Section (LSC) is at the forefront of developing and supplying superconducting wires and cables (Nb-Ti and Nb3Sn) for CERN's accelerator magnets and research and development (R&D) projects, including high-field magnets and medical applications. The Section also runs a dedicated laboratory for cryogenic and room-temperature characterization of superconductors.
By joining our team, you will play a hands-on role in the fabrication, testing, and characterization of superconducting materials that are vital to CERNs current and future accelerator performance.
Functions
As an Electromechanical Technician, you will work on the development, fabrication and characterization of high current Low Temperature Superconducting (LTS) wires and cables for superconducting magnets, in particular the Nb3Sn wires and cables developed in the framework of the High Field Magnet (HFM) programme.
You will:
- Perform reception and acceptance tests of materials at room temperature, prepare samples for optical imaging analysis and organise storage for superconducting wires and cables.
- Prepare and test samples of superconducting wires and cables, performing characterization measurements at cryogenic temperatures.
- Support, operate and maintain cryogenic test stations incorporating high field superconducting magnets.
- Contribute to the development and construction of new cryogenic test stations with high field superconducting magnets.
- Participate in the development and assembly of sample inserts and holders used for the cryogenic characterization of superconducting wires and cables.
- Operate existing and future cabling machines, perform quality control of the produced cables and assist in the development of related equipment and cabling tooling.
Qualifications
Higher technical diploma or equivalent relevant experience in the field of electromechanical engineering or a related field.
Experience:
Experience in:
- Construction or design or maintenance of test stations for electrical or electromechanical tests.
- Electrical or electromechanical tests or measurements performed in an industrial or laboratory environment.
- Quality Control, Quality Assurance and inspection procedures on electrical or electromechanical components.
Additional Experience considered an advantage:
- Operation and maintenance of superconducting, cryogenic or vacuum systems;
- Knowledge in instrumentation and test, preferably in the fields of cryogenics and applied superconductivity.
Necessary training will be provided where needed.
Technical competencies:
- Installation, operation and maintenance of industrial data-acquisition, monitoring and control systems.
- Construction, test and installation of electromechanical equipment and systems.
- Operation and maintenance of electromechanical equipment and systems.
- Assembly of electronic crates, racks and cabinets.
- Operation and maintenance of cryogenic systems.
Behavioural competencies:
- Demonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisions.
- Managing Self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
- Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
- Solving Problems: anticipating obstacles; assessing alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan.
- Working in Teams: cooperating constructively with others in the pursuit of team goals; balancing personal goals with team goals.
Language skills:
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.
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 17.11.2025 at 23:59 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.
Working Hours: 40 hours per week
Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite
This position involves:
- A valid driving licence.
- Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
- Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.
- Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions
- Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.
Job grade: 3-4
Job reference: TE-MSC-LSC-2025-212-LD
Field of work: Mechanical Engineering
Benchmark Job Title: Electromechanical Technician