Mechanical Engineer for scientific equipment

Context & Job Description

You will join a team of engineers and technicians dedicated to the development of advanced instrumentation for the beamlines and accelerator complex of the ESRF. You will contribute to high‑performance mechanical engineering projects involving ultra‑high precision technologies, opto‑mechanics, vacuum systems and cooling technologies, and will work in close collaboration with senior engineers, who are experienced experts in these fields of advanced instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Carry out feasibility studies and mechanical design studies using computer‑assisted tools for components of beamlines and for the accelerators: general layout, high stability supports, opto‑mechanical devices (mirrors, monochromators), motorised precision mechanical systems, experimental sample stations
• Carry out engineering calculations
• Supervise the production of detailed mechanical drawings, and coordinate the procurement, manufacturing, testing and installation phases of these equipment up to their commissioning on the beamlines
• Follow up the installation of major mechanical equipment, in close collaboration with other ESRF services such as infrastructure, electronics, vacuum, alignment and mechanical assembly teams

In the short term, your main mission will be to contribute to mechanical instrument projects as a member of the project team. Your responsibilities will be in line with your own skills and experience. After an adaptation period, you will be expected to take on complete projects with full autonomy and will be the mechanical correspondent for two ESRF beamlines.

Expected profile

Education

• Higher university degree (Master or equivalent – 300 ECTS) in mechanical engineering or a related discipline

Technical Skills

• 7 to 10 years of relevant professional experience
• Solid skills in drafting, mechanical design, and engineering calculations
• Proficiency in mechanical CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks)
• Strong interest in scientific instrumentation
• Experience in procurement, manufacturing, technical follow-up, and/or project management is a strong asset
• Proficiency in English, the working language at the ESRF

Non-technical Skills

• Autonomy and ability to work independently
• Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise tasks
• Team‑oriented mindset and ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary environments
• Hands‑on, practical approach to problem‑solving
• Ability to work in a demanding technical environment

Working conditions

Permanent contract. The salary will be calculated on the basis of relevant qualifications and professional experience.

What We Offer

• Join an innovative international research institute, with a workforce from 38 different countries
• Collaborate with global experts to advance science and address societal challenges
• Live in a vibrant city in the heart of the Alps and Europe\'s Green Capital 2022
• Enjoy a workplace designed to support your quality of life
• Benefit from our competitive compensation and allowances package, including financial support for relocation to Grenoble

For further information on employment terms and conditions, please refer to the "What we offer" section of our Careers page:

The ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons.

Company Description

The European Synchrotron, the ESRF, is an international research centre based in Grenoble, France. Through its engineering and scientific vision, it is recognised as a top research facility worldwide. Its particle accelerator produces intense X‑ray beams used by scientists across biology, medicine, environmental sciences, cultural heritage, materials science and physics. Supported by 19 countries, the ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diversity.