Applied Physicist/Engineer – ATLAS ITk Integration

What you'll do

The CERN ATLAS Team plays a major role in the construction and integration of the future silicon ATLAS Inner Tracker (ITk). The different parts of the ITk system are being constructed and integrated in institutes and then transported to CERN where the entire ITk will be assembled.

As an applied physicist or engineer in the CERN-ATL Team, you will join the Tracker section (EP-ATL-TRK) and work closely with the teams in the different institutes to synchronise the integration testing of the ATLAS ITk parts on surface, support their integration and commissioning into the ATLAS ITk and prepare the cavern commissioning.

Your responsibilities

Testing and verification of integrated ITk Strip Barrel and Endcap structures and services in the surface integration facility (SR1) at CERN.
Work closely with integration sites off CERN, e.g. DESY or NIKHEF, synchronise the testing and provide trouble shooting support for integration teams including support at the sites.
Develop software and hardware elements for the integration testing of ITk Barrel and Endcaps in the various integration sites and validate the procedures in SR1.
Streamline and document procedures for ITk integration testing and service validation and extend the testing procedures for the ITk Detector after installation and during commissioning.
Participate hands-on in the ITk Detector integration work in the ATLAS SR1 cleanroom and during ITk installation in the cavern including the preparation of equipment in the cavern.

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Your profile

Proven experience in the integration, testing and operation of silicon detectors for high energy physics experiments.
Proven experience in integration and commissioning of silicon trackers including services validation.
Demonstrated experience in the development of DAQ/online software or detector control systems for silicon detectors in high energy physics experiments.
Demonstrated experience in developing and streamlining testing procedures.
Demonstrated experience in integration and commissioning of silicon trackers including services validation.
Previous work on particle detector operation in an experiment is advantageous.
Experience with the assembly of sensitive equipment in a clean room environment is advantageous.
Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Applied Physicist or Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Testing and validation of detector, accelerator and beam line components.
Assembly and integration of detectors.
Construction, test and installation of electromechanical equipment and systems.
Development of application software.
Assembly and integration of infrastructure for detectors or experimental facilities.
Delivers high quality work on time and fulfils expectations.
Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Builds and maintains constructive and effective work relationships.
Works well autonomously; takes on activities and tasks without prompting.
Expresses opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeps to the point.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 54

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200140 - Applied Physicist

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Employment conditions

A valid driving licence.
Work in Radiation Areas.
Interventions in underground installations.
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum net entry-salary of 9236 Swiss Francs per month, increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Let's get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot, Croatian and Turkish nationals, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
You have relevant qualifications and professional experience.
If you have previously held a Staff contract at CERN, you will not be eligible for these positions.
Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

Your CV (English or French)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The EP department conducts research in experimental particle physics in close collaboration with and supporting the wider scientific community working at CERN. This includes designing and operating experiments, developing and constructing detectors, acquiring and analysing physics data.

Overview of CERN

Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

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Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
How big would the team be?

The size of the team you'll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
What is the working language at CERN?

The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
What support does CERN provide for relocation?

CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the “Salary, Benefits and Support“ page.
Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
What would my salary be?

Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.