Applied Physicist/Engineer - ATLAS ITk

Applied Physicist/Engineer - ATLAS ITk

Geneva, Switzerland EP-ATL-TRK-2026-208-LD Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Before 08/11/2026 at 23:59 (Geneva Time)

What you'll do

The CERN ATLAS Team plays a major role in the construction of the future silicon ATLAS Inner Tracker (ITk). In particular, the final integration of the ITk detector prior to installation in the experiment is a crucial step to validate the full functionality.

As an applied physicist or engineer in the CERN-ATL Team, you will join the Tracker section (EP-ATL-TRK) and work closely with personnel from the Detector Technologies Group (EP-DT) on the construction and integration of the ATLAS ITk Pixel System and its integration into the ATLAS ITk.

Your responsibilities

• Reception testing of ITk Silicon Pixel Detector elements and testing of multi-module Pixel structures to be integrated into the ITk Pixel Outer Barrel.
• Testing and verification of integrated ITk Pixel Detector structures and services as well as combined testing with the ITk Strip Detector in the surface integration facility (SR1) at CERN.
• Deploy and improve software and hardware elements for integration testing and service validation (online, detector control, detector safety) for the Pixel Detector and the combined ITk.
• Document procedures and results for ITk integration testing and service validation and develop testing procedures for the ITk Detector after installation.
• Participate hands-on in the ITk Detector integration work in the surface cleanroom as well as the preparation of equipment for the different testing stages.

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Your profile

• Proven experience in the construction and integration of silicon pixel detectors for high energy physics experiments.
• Proven experience in the testing and data analysis of silicon detector systems.
• Proven experience in silicon detector operation and quality control including the development, installation and commissioning of laboratory infrastructure.
• Experience in the development of DAQ/online software or detector control systems for silicon detector testing and operation.
• Demonstrated experience in working in a multi-disciplinary team and international collaboration, including physicists, engineers and technicians involved in work on detector construction.
• Experience on interpreting CAD designs of mechanics components or cooling plant operation is advantageous.
• Experience with the assembly of sensitive equipment in a clean room environment is advantageous.
• Master's degree 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): 48

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

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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.
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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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