Introduction

Would you like to take responsibility in the CERN Control Centre for the efficient and safe operation of one of CERN’s largest accelerator facilities and be part of the team that enhances its beam performance? Take part!

We are looking for an accelerator operations physicist in the Operations Group of the Beams Department who will participate in the running of the Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) accelerator complex and be a driving force behind the optimisation of its beam performance and availability.

The Operations Group is responsible for the operation of the CERN accelerator complex and its technical infrastructure, running a varied proton, antiproton and heavy ion experimental programme. The SPS is part of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) injector chain and also provides particle beams for a diverse fixed target physics program. The SPS together with its pre-injectors have recently undergone a vast performance upgrade in view of providing high-intensity and high-brightness beams to the future High Luminosity LHC, but also high intensity and high-quality particle beams for the diverse fixed target physics programme.

The SPS high-level control system, which comprises servers and applications written predominantly in the JAVA language, is a key ingredient for efficient and safe operation. A large number of applications with evolving requirements are developed and maintained by the operations teams. As well as playing a central role in ensuring that the SPS reaches its beam performance goals you will contribute to the modelling of the CERN accelerators within the control system, integrating new components and implementing new operational tools and methods.

Functions

As an applied physicist working on the Super Proton Synchrotron, you will:

• take responsibility for the effective and safe operation of the SPS and the beam lines to the associated experimental facilities, partly on a shift basis. .
• contribute to the re-commissioning phases of the SPS after technical stops.
• take a leading role in the optimisation of the SPS beam performance and availability in collaboration with physicists and equipment engineers and technicians.
• specify, design and develop high-level control software for CERN accelerators.
• participate in the safety organization of the SPS.

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of applied physics or accelerator science or a related field.

Experience:

The main requirement for this post is experience in commissioning, operation and performance optimisation of accelerators and accelerator systems. Including:

• Experience in the application of accelerator physics for accelerator performance optimisation;
• Experience of software development in Java and/or Python;
• Experience with modern software development techniques and principles;
• Experience with control systems and data analysis techniques;

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of accelerator physics theory
• Analysis and optimization of accelerator performance
• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: in particular Java and Python.
• Knowledge and application of software life-cycle tools and procedures: extensive knowledge for software-focused position is necessary.

Behavioural competencies:

• Solving problems: Finding the information needed to solve problems; making objective judgments based on all the facts available.
• Achieving results: Having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Communicating effectively: Providing others with timely information. Ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
• Working in teams: Gaining trust and collaboration from others. Contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues.
• Demonstrating flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in at least one of the two languages.

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 midnight CET 30th November 2022. 

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:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Shift work, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence is required.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: BE-OP-SPS-2022-135-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist