Mechanical Engineer for Cryogenics (TE-CRG-CL-2025-13-LD)

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

Are you an experienced Mechanical Engineer familiar with the design and delivery of advanced cryogenic systems? 

Be part of the international collaboration building the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in Lead, SD, USA. The detector contains Time Projection Chambers housed in four liquid argon cryostats with a total argon volume of about 50.000 m³,located in caverns at 1.5 km underground.The DUNE Cryogenic System shall assure the safe operation of these large volume cryostats, while at the same moment high temperature stability and argon purity conditions of the liquid argon baths are requested.

Join CERN’s Cryogenic Group and collaborate with experts expanding on the three decades of experience in the field of high-precision liquefied rare gas detectors. As a member of the DUNE collaboration, CERN has taken on the critical role of developing, designing, and constructing key cryogenic systems for two of the experiment’s large-scale cryostats. We are looking for a seasoned professional to help us deliver on this. Take part!

Functions

As a Mechanical Engineer in the CERN Cryogenic Group, you will:

• Obtain a thorough understanding of the cryogenics system under development for the DUNE experiment by actively engaging in system evaluations and participating in the ongoing test program.
• Take a leading role in the design and development of the DUNE cryogenic system, working closely with CERN colleagues and the DUNE collaboration to deliver solutions meeting project specifications and timelines.
• Collaborate in the definition of the DUNE cryogenic system falling under the responsibility of CERN, ensuring compatibility with the overall DUNE cryogenics architecture and operational requirements.
• Translate the cryogenic system requirements into comprehensive technical specifications, driving the tendering process by providing clear and precise documentation to support supplier selection and procurement.
• Assure the design validation and follow-up on the manufacturing of the cryogenic system, coordinating with the selected supplier to ensure adherence to quality, safety, and delivery standards.

Qualifications

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical engineering, Thermodynamics or a related field.

Experience:

The experience required for this post is:

• Demonstrated experience in the design and manufacturing follow-up of large cryogenic installations, including defining requirements and preparing technical specifications.
• Experience in applying tendering processes, overseeing supplier manufacturing, and ensuring compliance with technical specifications and performance criteria.
• Experience in working in large international collaborations with the ability to represent technical interests and effectively coordinate with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in dealing with complex industrial processes, involving cryogenics or vacuum technologies, with a focus on system reliability and safety, would be a major asset.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of cryogenic heat transfer and insulation techniques
• Design, analysis and optimization of thermal systems
• Design and construction of cryogenic fluid distribution systems
• Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in fluid mechanics and/or heat transfer
• Specification and follow-up of technical aspects of a contract

Behavioural competencies:

• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting
• Learning and Sharing Knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer
• Achieving Results: delivering prompt and efficient service taking into account customer needs
• Working in Teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities

Language skills:

Spoken and written English on a professional level, including the ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations.
Spoken French would be an advantage, otherwise the willingness to acquire it is expected. 

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.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 23.02.2025 23:59h CET. 

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (3 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:

• 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.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-CRG-CL-2025-13-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Engineer

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