Collimator Systems Engineer (SY-STI-TCD-2025-70-GRAP)
π Job Overview
- Job Title: Collimator Systems Engineer (SY-STI-TCD-2025-70-GRAP)
- Company: CERN
- Location: Geneva, Genève, Switzerland
- Job Type: Full-time
- Category: Mechanical Engineer (Web Infrastructure)
- Date Posted: 2025-06-12
- Experience Level: 2-5 years
- Remote Status: On-site
π Role Summary
- Oversee the production of collimators and masks for the High-Luminosity LHC Project (HL-LHC) within WP5 of the Targets, Collimators, and Dumps (TCD) Section.
- Collaborate with industry partners, manage quality assessments, and ensure project timelines and quality standards are met.
- Coordinate installation procedures, document technical information, and participate in test campaigns and machine installations.
π Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a crucial phase of the HL-LHC Project, requiring a blend of technical proficiency, project management skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
π» Primary Responsibilities
- Project Management & Quality Assurance: Oversee collimators reception tests, quality checks, and assembly activities, ensuring adherence to project timelines and quality standards.
- Industry Collaboration: Follow up on collimator production activities in industry, including production problem-solving and duty trips to Member State countries.
- Surface Activities Management: Supervise and manage surface activities related to collimators at CERN, ensuring operational efficiency and compliance with safety protocols.
- Documentation & Technical Information Management: Document installation procedures of collimators in the machine and manage technical documentation associated with the production and operation of the collimators.
- Contract Management & Logistics: If required, coordinate contracts with industry partners, oversee shipment logistics, maintain inventory records, and conduct quality assessments of received components.
π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outlined above may vary slightly depending on the priorities of the project and how the schedule progresses.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education: A Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience, or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience.
Required Skills:
- Experience with precise mechanical engineering assemblies.
- Knowledge of assemblies in ultra-high vacuum environment (desired).
- Project management skills.
- Strong knowledge of mechanical engineering concepts (structural, thermal).
- Ability to work in diverse, multicultural, multidisciplinary environments.
- Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in assemblies in ultra-high vacuum environment.
- Familiarity with the High-Luminosity LHC Project (HL-LHC) or similar large-scale scientific projects.
π Enhancement Note: As this role involves work in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations, candidates should possess relevant safety certifications and be comfortable working in such environments.
π Web Portfolio & Project Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- Demonstrate experience in mechanical engineering assemblies, with a focus on precision and quality.
- Showcase project management skills through successful completion of projects, including timelines, budgets, and stakeholder communication.
- Highlight problem-solving abilities through case studies or examples of overcoming technical challenges.
Technical Documentation:
- Provide examples of technical documentation, such as assembly procedures, test results, or quality assurance reports.
- Demonstrate familiarity with technical documentation standards and best practices.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: 6287 - 6911 Swiss Francs per month (net of tax)
Benefits:
- Health scheme (for yourself, your spouse, and children)
- Pension Fund
- 30 days of paid leave per year
- Training opportunities and in-house language courses for English and/or French
- Installation grant, family, child, and infant allowances; payment of travel expenses at the beginning and end of contract (depending on individual circumstances)
π― Team & Company Context
Company Culture:
- Industry: Scientific research and engineering, focusing on particle physics and high-energy physics.
- Company Size: Large, with over 2,700 employees from over 600 institutions in over 110 countries.
- Founded: 1954, with a rich history in groundbreaking scientific research and international collaboration.
Team Structure:
- The Targets, Collimators, and Dumps (TCD) Section is part of the Sources, Targets, and Interactions (STI) Group within the Accelerator Systems (SY) Department.
- The team works closely with industry partners, other CERN departments, and international collaborators.
Development Methodology:
- CERN follows a structured project management approach, with clear objectives, milestones, and deliverables.
- The organization emphasizes collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and continuous learning.
Company Website: http://home.cern/
π Enhancement Note: CERN offers a unique work environment, fostering international collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of scientific discovery. The organization values diversity and is committed to providing equal opportunities for all employees.
π Work Environment
Office Type: On-site, with a focus on collaboration and knowledge-sharing in a multicultural environment.
Office Location(s): CERN, Geneva, Switzerland
Workspace Context:
- The work environment is highly collaborative, with team members working together on complex projects.
- CERN provides state-of-the-art facilities, including workshops, laboratories, and offices designed to support scientific research and engineering.
- The organization encourages a flexible work-life balance, with opportunities for professional development and training.
Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, with flexible working hours and the possibility of overtime during peak project phases.
π Enhancement Note: As CERN is an international organization, the work environment is diverse and multicultural, with employees from over 110 countries. This enriching environment fosters collaboration and innovation in scientific research and engineering.
π Application & Technical Interview Process
Interview Process:
- Online Application Review: CERN will review your application, focusing on your educational background, professional experience, and relevant skills.
- Phone or Video Screening: A brief phone or video call to discuss your application and assess your communication skills and cultural fit.
- Technical Interview: A panel interview focusing on your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of mechanical engineering concepts. You may be asked to discuss specific projects or case studies.
- Final Decision: CERN will make a final decision based on your interview performance, references, and overall fit for the role.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Highlight your experience in mechanical engineering assemblies, project management, and problem-solving.
- Include examples of your technical documentation and quality assurance efforts.
- Emphasize your ability to work in diverse, multicultural environments and your commitment to learning the other language (English or French).
Technical Challenge Preparation:
- Brush up on your mechanical engineering knowledge, focusing on structural and thermal concepts.
- Familiarize yourself with the High-Luminosity LHC Project (HL-LHC) and the work of the Targets, Collimators, and Dumps (TCD) Section.
- Prepare for questions about your project management experience, problem-solving abilities, and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
ATS Keywords: Mechanical Engineering, Project Management, Quality Assurance, Assembly, Testing Procedures, Documentation, Team Supervision, Radiation Areas, Underground Installations, High-Luminosity LHC Project (HL-LHC), Targets, Collimators, and Dumps (TCD) Section, Accelerator Systems (SY) Department, CERN
π Enhancement Note: To optimize your application, tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight the required skills and experiences for this role. Focus on your mechanical engineering expertise, project management abilities, and problem-solving skills. Emphasize your ability to work in diverse, multicultural environments and your commitment to learning the other language (English or French).
π Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure
Mechanical Engineering Tools & Software:
- 3D modeling and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar)
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, or similar)
- Project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, or similar)
Web Infrastructure & Server Technologies:
- Familiarity with web infrastructure concepts is not required for this role, as it focuses on mechanical engineering and project management.
π Enhancement Note: While this role does not require expertise in web infrastructure or server technologies, a basic understanding of these concepts can be beneficial for working effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
CERN Values:
- Excellence: CERN strives for excellence in scientific research and engineering, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
- Innovation: The organization encourages creativity and innovation, pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and technological development.
- Collaboration: CERN values international collaboration and teamwork, bringing together experts from over 110 countries to work towards common goals.
- Openness: The organization promotes open communication, knowledge-sharing, and transparency in its operations and decision-making processes.
Collaboration Style:
- CERN emphasizes a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to scientific research and engineering.
- The organization encourages knowledge-sharing, mentoring, and continuous learning.
- Teams work closely together, combining their expertise to overcome technical challenges and achieve common objectives.
π Enhancement Note: CERN's unique work environment fosters international collaboration and innovation, providing employees with the opportunity to work on cutting-edge scientific research and engineering projects. The organization values diversity and is committed to providing equal opportunities for all employees.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Technical Challenges:
- Managing complex mechanical engineering projects with tight deadlines and quality standards.
- Collaborating with industry partners to ensure the successful production and delivery of collimators and masks.
- Overseeing the installation of collimators and masks in the machine, ensuring operational efficiency and compliance with safety protocols.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Technical Skill Development: Enhance your mechanical engineering skills, gaining experience in assemblies in ultra-high vacuum environments and large-scale scientific projects.
- Project Management: Develop your project management skills, working on complex projects with tight deadlines and quality standards.
- International Collaboration: Expand your professional network by working with colleagues from over 110 countries, fostering cultural exchange and learning.
- Career Progression: CERN offers opportunities for career progression, including team leadership and technical specialist roles.
π Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a crucial phase of the High-Luminosity LHC Project, requiring a blend of technical proficiency, project management skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. By joining CERN, you will have the chance to work on cutting-edge scientific research and engineering projects, collaborating with experts from around the world.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Technical Questions:
- Mechanical Engineering Fundamentals: Discuss your understanding of mechanical engineering concepts, focusing on structural and thermal aspects.
- Project Management: Describe your experience with project management, highlighting your ability to meet deadlines, manage resources, and ensure quality standards.
- Problem-Solving: Present a case study or example of a technical challenge you've faced and how you overcame it, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
- High-Luminosity LHC Project (HL-LHC) Knowledge: Show your understanding of the HL-LHC Project and the work of the Targets, Collimators, and Dumps (TCD) Section, demonstrating your ability to contribute to the project's success.
Company & Culture Questions:
- CERN Values: Discuss your understanding of CERN's values and how you can contribute to the organization's mission and objectives.
- International Collaboration: Describe your experience working in diverse, multicultural environments and your commitment to learning the other language (English or French).
- Adaptability: Explain how you can adapt to the unique work environment at CERN, focusing on collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and continuous learning.
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Highlight your experience in mechanical engineering assemblies, project management, and problem-solving.
- Include examples of your technical documentation and quality assurance efforts.
- Emphasize your ability to work in diverse, multicultural environments and your commitment to learning the other language (English or French).
π Enhancement Note: To prepare for your interview, brush up on your mechanical engineering knowledge, focusing on structural and thermal concepts. Familiarize yourself with the High-Luminosity LHC Project (HL-LHC) and the work of the Targets, Collimators, and Dumps (TCD) Section. Prepare for questions about your project management experience, problem-solving abilities, and ability to work in a collaborative environment. Tailor your portfolio and resume to highlight the required skills and experiences for this role, emphasizing your mechanical engineering expertise, project management abilities, and problem-solving skills.
π Application Steps
To apply for this Collimator Systems Engineer position at CERN:
- Submit your application through the application link provided in the job posting.
- Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your mechanical engineering expertise, project management abilities, and problem-solving skills. Emphasize your experience in mechanical engineering assemblies, project management, and quality assurance.
- Prepare for the technical interview by brushing up on your mechanical engineering knowledge, familiarizing yourself with the High-Luminosity LHC Project (HL-LHC), and practicing your problem-solving skills.
- Research CERN's mission, values, and culture to demonstrate your understanding of the organization and your commitment to its objectives.
β οΈ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and mechanical engineering industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with CERN before making application decisions.
Application Requirements
Candidates should have a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering with 2 to 6 years of experience or a PhD with up to 3 years of experience. Experience in precise mechanical engineering assemblies and project management skills are essential.