CERN Position: Mechanical Technician for the LHCb Calorimeter Detector (EP-DT-CO-2025-160-LD)

Location: Geneva, ch

Company Description:

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.

Job Description:

Introduction

Are you an enthusiastic mechanical Technician interested in joining a team that develops and manufactures high-precision detectors for physics experiments? Take part!

You will join the Detector Technologies Group (DT) in the Experimental Physics Department (EP), which is involved in the development, construction, and operation of particle detectors for experiments at CERN, including both LHC detector consolidation and upgrade projects as well as non-LHC activities.

The electromagnetic calorimeter of the Large Hadron Collider beauty (LHCb) experiment is scheduled for a significant upgrade in the coming years. As part of this project, you will contribute to the mechanical assembly of the new calorimeter detector modules, which incorporate optical plastic fibres housed within 3D-printed structures. Ensuring quality assurance will be a key aspect of the assembly process. At a later stage, you will also take part in the assembly of the calorimeter to integrate the new detector modules.

Functions

• Assembly of sophisticated mechanical structures (e.g. calorimeter detector modules);
• Production of high-precision parts with additive manufacturing (3D printing);
• Manufacturing of mechanical parts on conventional and CNC machines;
• Preparation of complex 3D models for production of mechanical parts;
• Participation in the development of new tooling and assembly procedures ;
• Ensuring that mechanical specifications are met during production.

Qualifications:

Technical certificate or general secondary education or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanics or a related field.

Experience:

The required experience for this post is:

• Different 3-D printing technologies (FDM and DLP);
• Conventional machining of precise parts;
• Precision assembly and adjustment;
• Use of CAD (2D and 3D) and CAM software;
• Good understanding of mechanical drawings and geometric tolerancing;

The following experience would be an advantage:

• Knowledge of the CATIA CAD software package;
• Characterisation of optical components (transmission and reflection);
• Assembly of optical plastic fibres including dedicated gluing and polishing (diamond tooling).

Technical competencies:

• Manufacturing of mechanical parts: (conventional);
• Production of 2D drawings and 3D models;
• Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment;
• Proficiency in CAD software for multi-part assembly design and integration;
• Part design, printer operation, post processing and maintenance for additive manufacturing.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Solving Problems: adopting a pragmatic approach; understanding the value of adopting generic rather than ”gold -plated” technical solutions.
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• 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, with a commitment to learn French.

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. 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 01.09.2025 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:

• 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.
• Exposure to lead.
• Exposure to ionising radiation and classified as category A.
• Use of certain mobile work equipment or equipment used for lifting loads (lifting equipment, bridge cranes, aerial work platforms, etc.) requiring a driving authorisation.
• Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 3-4

Job reference: EP-DT-CO-2025-160-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Technician

Level of Education: Master Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: 24