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 a qualified and proactive Applied Physicist? Are you someone who has expertise in the operation and maintenance of very large experiments and the associated infrastructure within the most powerful particle accelerator complex in the world? Then this opportunity is for you. Join the largest particle physics research laboratory in the world! CERN, take part!
The Experimental Physics (EP) Department carries out research in the field of experimental particle physics supporting several experiments at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN. One of the experiments, ATLAS, is a general-purpose particle physics experiment run by an international collaboration and is designed to exploit the full discovery potential and the huge range of physics opportunities that the LHC provides. The efficient operation of such a large experiment relies on the ability to keep under control and in good conditions all the detector systems and their infrastructures.
As Operation Manager of the ATLAS detector (OPM), you will play a major role in defining and organizing all the works needed to keep the detector in the best possible conditions, operating and maintaining parts of the experiment infrastructure, in close collaboration with the ATLAS Technical Coordination (TC), Run Coordination and the experts of the ATLAS detector systems. ATLAS is preparing substantial upgrades that will be installed during the years 2026 – 2029. During these years the OPM will play a leading role for the infrastructure upgrades and – together with the detector systems – prepare the complex commissioning and operation of the new and upgraded detectors.
Functions
After having acquired an excellent understanding and knowledge of all ATLAS subsystems and infrastructures, which enables you to oversee the consequences of interventions on the full system, you will:
Manage the operation of all ATLAS experiment installations, in particular with respect to planning of interventions and 24/7 problem response.Organize and chair regular meetings where interventions on and maintenance of the ATLAS detector and its experiment infrastructure are defined and scheduled, liaising with the different system run coordinators, detector experts, commissioning coordinators, safety experts and with the CERN technical services. Analyse the consequences of the proposed maintenance interventions.Interact with the upgrade projects to define future needs for the operation of the experiments.Together with colleagues from Technical Coordination, oversee and coordinate the commissioning of the upgraded detector systems and prepare the infrastructure necessary for operation inside the ATLAS underground area.Hands-on work for maintenance and repair of dedicated counting room equipment under TC responsibility to guarantee smooth operation.Follow-up and produce documentation on the interventions performed on the different systems.Develop and/or maintain computer-based systems to assist you in the understanding of the complex relations between different parts of the detector.Act as link person between the CERN technical sector and ATLAS for the operation, including participating in meetings with the LHC machine.Play a leading role in the evolution of the operation model due to the upgrade activities.Qualifications
PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of applied physics or experimental physics or a related field.
Experience:
Proven experience with the operation of large physics experiments.In depth experience with the operation of at least one detector system (e.g. Silicon trackers, calorimeters, muon spectrometers).Experience in planning activities that involve and impact several stakeholders.Experience coordinating the work of other physicists, engineers and technicians.Experience in the organization of complex, heterogeneous counting rooms would be an asset.Experience with using software applications and diagnosing problems in distributed network environments would be an asset.Technical competencies:
Analysis and interpretation of experimental dataAnalysis and optimization of experiment performanceAssembly and integration of infrastructure for detectors or experimental facilitiesOperation and support of experimental facilitiesOperation of experimentsBehavioural competencies:
Working in Teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activitiesCommunicating Effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documentedDemonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisionsSolving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address themDemonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements, and demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances while supporting initiatives for change.Language skills:
Spoken and written English: ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in English. Basic French skills acquired in a professional environment are an asset.
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 21.04.2025 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.Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays.Interventions in underground installations.A valid driving licence.Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.Job grade: 6-7
Job reference: EP-ADO-SO-2025-49-LD
Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist