Ion Beam Systems Technical Engineer (SY-STI-LP-2025-172-LD)

At CERN, the European Organisation 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.

Introduction

Are you a practical hands-on and curious technical engineer? Would you like to contribute to the forefront of nuclear science and the fight against cancer by supporting the production of the rarest nuclei and purest radioisotopes? Working with cutting-edge laser systems and isotope mass separators at the CERN-MEDICIS and ISOLDE facilities you will produce the purest beams of radioisotopes for targeted cancer therapies, medical research and fundamental sciences.  

You will join the Accelerator Systems Department (SY), which is responsible for the beam-related technical systems of the CERN accelerators. The SY teams design, build and operate equipment systems in all CERN accelerators, and are engaged in ambitious forward-looking R&D programmes.? 

You will work in the Sources, Targets and Interactions (STI) Group, within the Accelerator Systems Department (SY), focusing on radiation effects, beam-machine interactions, and particle-matter simulations.  

You will join the Lasers and Photocathodes Section (SY-STI-LP), responsible for laser installations and optical beam lines used to produce charged particle beams in the CERN accelerator complex and research facilities and operation of the RILIS and MELISSA laser ion sources and the MEDICIS isotope separator. 

Functions

As an electro-mechanical technical engineer for ion beam production, you will operate and maintain the laser and optical systems as well as the mass separators, used to produce radioactive ion beams at CERN-MEDICIS and ISOLDE.

 You will: 

• Operate, maintain, and support the MEDICIS mass separator and high-power laser systems in line with experimental schedules.
• Coordinate machine interventions, performance monitoring, and radioactive sample handling, ensuring compliance with radiological safety protocols.
• Develop and implement automation systems for beam tuning and laser optimization.
• Maintain and update technical documentation, including procedures, schematics, equipment layouts, and safety files.
• Participate in equipment upgrades, infrastructure consolidation, and hands-on mechanical and electrical interventions.
• Provide technical updates in coordination meetings.
• Support on-call operations during ISOLDE RILIS activities.
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team and engage in continuous hands-on training and development tailored to your experience.

Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of electromechanics, photonics engineering or a related field.

Experience:

Required experience

• Hands-on experience operating in an accelerator facility or comparable large-scale technical infrastructure (e.g., vacuum, cryogenic, or radiation environments).
• Strong practical skills in mechanical assembly, integration, or system maintenance.
• Ability to manage and maintain technical documentation, procedures, and system specifications to professional standards.
• Interest in or experience with tunable high-power laser systems, including alignment, maintenance, or operation under laboratory conditions.

Desired experience

• Familiarity with mechatronics, including integration of mechanical, electronic, and control systems.
• Familiarity with quality control principles, system validation, and basic project management methodologies (e.g., planning, risk assessment, technical reporting).
• Previous experience working with or around radioactive materials, with an understanding of associated safety and procedural requirements.

Technical competencies:

• Operation and maintenance of electromechanical equipment and systems;
• Operation and support of experimental facilities;
• Analysis and optimisation of accelerator performance;
• Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment;
• Specification and follow-up of technical aspects of a contract.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Working in Teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements; readily absorbing new techniques and working practices; proposing new or improved ways of working.
• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them; anticipating obstacles; assessing alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan.
• Learning and Sharing Knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organisation. 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 14.09.2025 at 23:59 CEST.

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

This position involves:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• A valid driving licence.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
• Operations on electrical installations or in their vicinity (over 1000 Volt AC or 1500 Volt DC) requiring a specific authorisation
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: SY-STI-LP-2025-172-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electromechanical Technical Engineer