Mechanical Engineer for Tristron Project

What you'll do

A project is ongoing at CERN to increase the efficiency of RF power production, designing and prototyping a tristron (a hybrid between triode and klystron), a gridded tube with additional penultimate cavity that boosts the RF power production efficiency from 75% (IOT best) to above 90%. You will join the tristron design and engineering team, with the main task of providing engineering support to the development and fabrication of a tristron prototype. Examples of the calculations required include structural, thermal, and multiphysics analyses, by means of both analytical and numerical methods.

You will also propose and study design solutions involving high-temperature refractory materials, with complex geometries and precise manufacturing tolerances. You will participate to the regular project meetings, presenting the results of your studies and actively contributing to the advancement of the project. You will also be required to prepare reports and technical notes, to document the work done.

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Your responsibilities

Join a team of physicists, engineers, designers and fabrication experts, working at the fabrication of a tristron prototype.
Perform thermomechanical simulations to guide the design choices of the prototype.
Study and propose design concepts combining best materials, geometries and assembling performance.
Support the fabrication via ad-hoc analyses of the proposed manufacturing techniques.
Regularly report the main studies and conclusions to the project team, by means of presentations and technical notes.

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Your profile

Proven experience with finite element analysis software for thermal and structural simulations (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL).
Experience with the design of ductile and brittle materials at room and high temperatures.
Some initial experience with 3D CAD software (e.g. CATIA).
Familiarity with International Standards dealing with the design structural equipment would be an asset.
Your studies focused on Mechanical Engineering.

Your skills

Finite element analyses, particularly thermal and mechanical. Multiphysics simulation skills would be an asset.
Ability to analyse and interpret simulation data to guide design decisions and understand operational failure mechanisms.
Understanding of the behaviour and design principles of ductile and brittle materials at room and high temperatures.
3D CAD software (e.g. CATIA) - basic level.
Attitude to teamwork in a multidisciplinary environment.
Excellent communication and documentation skills.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/04/2026

Contract duration: 24 month contract

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
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 and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

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.
By the application deadline, you have a master’s degree with 2 to 6 years of professional experience since graduation or a PhD with a maximum of 3 years of professional experience since graduation. You are not eligible with only a bachelor’s degree.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
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
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)

Your CERNDepartment

The EN department provides essential engineering expertise and infrastructure systems for the design, operation, and maintenance of CERN's accelerator complex and experimental facilities.

It covers everything from mechanical engineering to infrastructure management, ensuring the smooth running of technical systems.

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.
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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.
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What would my salary be?

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