Power Electronics Engineer for high-power systems (SY-EPC-HPC-2025-109-LD)

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

We are seeking a Power Electronics Engineer to join our team and contribute to the development of large-scale power electronics systems that drive CERN’s particle accelerators. These accelerators act as a powerful microscope, enabling scientists to explore the fundamental laws of nature. In close collaboartion with experts in power electronics, digital control, and system integration, you will work on the design, simulation, installation, testing, and commissioning of high-power systems, including Static Var Compensators (SVCs) and power converters in the multi-megawatt range as well as their operation and maintenance. 

You will join the  Accelerator Systems Department  (SY), which is responsible for the beam-related technical systems of CERN’s accelerators. The SY teams design, build, and operate equipment systems across the entire CERN accelerator complex while also leading ambitious R&D programs for future advancements. Within this department, the  Electrical Power Converter Group  (EPC) oversees the electrical power systems that supply the CERN accelerator infrastructure. You will be part of the  High-Power Converter  Section, working in a dynamic and collaborative environment where knowledge sharing and innovation are key. 

Functions

As a Power Electronics Engineer, your work will involve the following activities: 

• Contributing to the construction, testing, and deployment of Static Var Compensators (SVC) and high-power converters;
• Design and modeling of power electronic components and systems: Performing simulations of SVCs and specifying key system components;
• Application of advanced power electronics techniques: Developing and simulating control systems for SVCs;
• Design and implementation of digital control systems: Implementing control strategies within CERN’s control platform;
• Operation and maintenance of power electronic components and systems: Analyzing operational challenges, proposing and implementing solutions, and coordinating system interventions and preparing test procedures and reports;
• Supervision of junior team members and personnel from external companies.

Qualifications

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of electrical or electronics engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Design of power converters and power systems, with the ability to use simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent;
• Understanding of analog and digital control principles, with the ability to program microcontrollers and develop logic for programmable systems;
• Prior experience in the design, operation and / or maintenance of power systems in the multi megawatt range would be advantage.  

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of power electronics techniques, in particular understanding of common topologies for high-power converters and reactive power compensation systems;
• Design and modelling of power electronic components and systems;
• Operation and maintenance of power electronic components and systems;
• Knowledge and application of automation and control theory.

Behavioural competencies:

• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting
• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind
• Solving problems: addressing complex problems by breaking them down into manageable components
• Working in teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities
• Communicating effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

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 June 24, 2025 at 23:59 CET.

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:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SY-EPC-HPC-2025-109-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electrical Engineer