Operation Engineer in Cryogenics

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. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Job Description
Introduction

Come and join the team managing the CERN's cryogenic facilities, a unique opportunity to work on technologies and equipment that constitute nearly half the world's stock of large helium cryogenic plants. It is challenging and exciting place to work. Take part!

CERN is the world's largest high energy physics laboratory and its flagship accelerator, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), and its detectors, depends on having an unrivalled set of cryogenic systems. From commissioning to steady-state operation, maintenance support and emergency interventions, no stone is left unturned in the quest towards safe and highly reliable operation.

The experience you will gain as a member of the expert team of LHC cryogenics could not be acquired anywhere else, teaching you to work on complex industrial processes in a large and multi-cultural environment. Meet the team!
https://home.cern/about/engineering/cryogenics-low-temperatures-high-performance

Functions

As an operation engineer in cryogenics, you will follow theoretical, processes and hands-on training in the operation of the unique helium, nitrogen and argon cryogenic systems dedicated to the LHC accelerator and its detectors. The above will be combined with your own sound knowledge on several engineering fields. You will progressively perform data and process analysis on the related cryogenic technologies and equipment to identify potential malfunctioning or degradation and implement improvements and optimizations of their control and operation.

Leading a small team of technical engineers and operators, you will notably:

-Take responsibility for the operation of cryogenic equipment for the LHC accelerator and its detectors.
-Diagnose and resolve non-routine complex problems concerning operation, process, and controls.
-Define functional specifications for the process controls of existing or new equipment.
-Develop and maintain data analysis algorithms to support daily operation and provide pertinent information to the experts from large data set.
-Participate in the commissioning, acceptance testing and performance evaluation of new cryogenic equipment and ancillary infrastructure.

These functions require close collaboration with people and services inside and outside the Organization.

Qualifications
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of mechanical engineering, applied physics, chemical engineering, process engineering, control engineering or a related field.

Experience:

-Demonstrated experience in thermodynamical processes calculation, sizing, and design, with an interest in extending one's knowledge in the field of cryogenics (technologies below 120 K).
-Experience in thermodynamical processes modelling and simulation.
-Experience in laboratory or large-scale cryogenics operation and/or associated process controls would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

-Knowledge and application of thermodynamics and energetics: and fluid dynamics
-Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: (Python, Matlab, R, others)
-Elements and use of process control automation and process dynamic simulation would be an asset.
-Elements from artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques would be an asset.


Behavioural competencies:

-Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them Producing workable and timely solutions that meet requirements
-Working in Teams: gaining trust and collaboration from others
-Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting Demonstrating a receptive approach to feedback; being open to criticism and reconsidering position accordingly
-Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements Demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supporting initiatives for change
-Learning and Sharing Knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer

Language skills:

English or French: spoken and written, with the ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports, and/or to make oral presentations.

The ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts would be an advantage.

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 10.01.2024 at midday.

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.
-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.