Particle Accelerator Engineer; BE-OP-PSB--LD

• Contract

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.

Introduction:

You will play a key role in operating LINAC3, CERN’s ion linear accelerator, helping ensure reliable and efficient beam delivery across the injector chain. You will oversee the safe operation and performance of ion beams supplied to downstream machines, supporting daily operations, commissioning and machine development.

Working closely with operators, equipment experts and machine coordinators, you will contribute to optimising beam quality, availability and operational efficiency, while advancing automation and operational tools.

The Operations Group manages the full CERN accelerator complex and its technical infrastructure, including the LHC, delivering proton and heavy ion beams for a diverse experimental program. You will contribute directly to preparing beams for CERN’s physics research.

Functions:

• Contribute to and coordinate the daily operation of the LINAC3 ion accelerator, ensuring safe, reliable and timely beam delivery to downstream accelerators.
• Prepare, coordinate, and follow up the machine restart, beam commissioning, development and technical interventions.
• Coordinate closely with operators, engineers and equipment specialists to diagnose and resolve operational issues.
• Monitor beam quality and machine performance, analyse operational data and take corrective actions when needed.
  Use, maintain, and evolve standard operational tools, diagnostics and monitoring applications required for routine operation, troubleshooting and performance follow-up.
• Participate in and lead machine development activities aimed at improving performance, stability and availability.
• Develop and integrate advanced tools and algorithms for beam measurements, corrections, automation and performance optimisation, in close collaboration with machine and equipment experts.
• Produce and maintain operational and safety documentation for the accelerator, including new ion species.
• Contribute to shift coordination and operational planning, including participation in coordination rotas.
• Prepare and present clear status updates and reports for coordination meetings and management.
• Support knowledge transfer and on-the-job training of operators and junior colleagues.
• Contribute to cross-machine activities to ensure synergies and share best practices.

Master’s Degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Applied Physics or Control & Automation Engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Solid background in accelerator or beam physics, with a good understanding of charged particle beams and accelerator components.
• Hands‑on experience with the operation, commissioning or performance optimisation of a complex scientific or industrial facility.
• Ability to analyse operational data, identify performance limitations and propose practical solutions.
• Experience working with and development of operational software, control system and data analysis tools (e.g. Python, Java and scientific programming languages).
• Practical knowledge of computer programs for beam simulations and accelerator modelling would be an asset.
• Proven ability to coordinate activities involving multiple technical teams and stakeholders.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to take responsibility in operational and time‑critical situations.
• Good communication skills, with the ability to explain technical topics clearly to different audiences.
• Interest in contributing to continuous improvement of operational tools, procedures and safety practices.
• Experience in mentoring, training or knowledge transfer is considered an asset.
• Operation of accelerators.
• Analysis and optimisation of accelerator performance.
• Knowledge and application of…