Electrical Engineer for Power Converters R&D (SY-EPC-FPC-2025-106-LD)

Social network you want to login/join with:

Electrical Engineer for Power Converters R&D (SY-EPC-FPC-2025-106-LD), Geneva

Client: CERN

Location: Geneva

Job Category: Other

Job Reference: 4070b05bca85

Job Views: 1

Posted: 23.05.2025

Expiry Date: 07.07.2025

Job Description

Introduction

Are you ready to play a pivotal role in powering accelerating systems for the world’s largest particle accelerator currently under study, the Future Circular Collider (FCC)? Join CERN’s Electrical Power Converter Group (EPC) and leave your mark on the development and operation of the electrical systems for CERN's particle accelerators. Take part!

You will join the Accelerator Systems Department (SY), responsible for the beam-related technical systems of CERN accelerators. The SY teams design, build, and operate equipment systems and are engaged in ambitious R&D programmes.

The Electrical Power Converter Group within the Accelerator Systems Department (SY) handles the electrical power systems for the entire CERN accelerator complex.

You will be part of the Fast-Pulsed Converter Section, responsible for high voltage power converters ranging from tens of kilowatts to multi-megawatts at CERN.

Functions

As an Electrical Engineer, you will be an integral part of a multidisciplinary R&D team, actively shaping the future of accelerator technology. Your role involves defining and developing power systems for RF equipment ranging from a few kilowatts up to 130 megawatts, critical for particle beam acceleration in next-generation projects.

You will:

• Power Converter design and modelling
• Define optimal topologies and switching technologies for LV and HV DC/DC and AC/DC power converters, including high-voltage protection devices like solid-state switches (e.g., IGBT-based fast disconnectors). Power ratings range from tens of kilowatts to several megawatts.
• Develop analytical and numerical models to evaluate performance, considering efficiency, response, size, footprint, and cost based on specific requirements.
• Design and refine digital control strategies to enhance performance and reliability.
• Validate models through simulations and small-scale prototypes when necessary.

• System-Level Optimization
• Integrate converter models into system-wide optimization frameworks to reduce costs and improve overall performance.
• Collaborate with specialists in various accelerator technology domains for cohesive system design.

• Reporting and Communication
• Present project progress, challenges, and outcomes internally and at conferences.
• Produce detailed technical documentation to support R&D activities and knowledge sharing.

Qualifications

Master's degree, PhD, or equivalent experience in electrical engineering, power electronics, or related fields.

Experience:

• Design and modelling of power electronics converters topologies.
• Experience with power semiconductors, thermal and electrical simulation tools like Matlab/Simulink.

Desired experience:

• Initial experience with Python.
• Initial experience in numerical optimization.

Technical competencies:

• Design and modelling of power electronic components and systems.
• Knowledge of power electronics techniques.
• Functional analysis of control systems.

Behavioural competencies:

• Structured and organized approach to work, with ability to prioritize.
• Autonomous work ethic, proactive in taking initiatives.
• Effective teamwork and relationship building.
• Problem-solving skills, breaking down complex issues.
• Effective communication, providing constructive feedback.

Language skills:

Fluent in spoken and written English; willingness to learn French.

Additional Information

Eligibility and closing date:

CERN values diversity and welcomes applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible; applications should be received by June 22, 2025, at 23:59 CET.

Employment Conditions

• Limited duration contract (5 years), with possibility for extension.
• 40 hours/week.
• Requires a valid driving license.
• Work during nights, Sundays, holidays, and standby duty as needed.
• Medical clearance required due to occupational health risks.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SY-EPC-FPC-2025-106-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Electrical Engineer