Magnet Group Leader, Electron-Ion Collider - Brookhaven National Laboratory

Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is the building site for the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC), a one-of-a-kind nuclear physics research facility.  The EIC will be a discovery machine for unlocking the secrets of the “glue” that binds the building blocks of visible matter in the universe. The machine design is based on the existing and highly optimized RHIC Ion-Ion collider.   It will consist of two intersecting accelerators, one producing an intense beam of electrons, the other a beam of protons or heavier atomic nuclei which are steered into collisions.  Beyond sparking scientific discoveries in a new frontier of fundamental physics, the Electron-Ion Collider will trigger technological breakthroughs that have broad-ranging impact on human health and national challenges.

Position Description

The Technical Systems Division (TSD) of the Electron Ion Collider (EIC) directorate has an opening for an experienced engineering manager to serve as the Magnet Group Leader.  The team is responsible for the design, specification, fabrication, and procurement of particle accelerator conventional and superconducting magnets. This includes the definition and design of magnet system elements including interfaces. Applicants should be highly motivated to work in a cross-disciplinary environment on R&D and engineering activities related to magnet design and development. The group leader will manage a team of magnet engineers and scientists.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan and lead accelerator magnet development projects in response to the needs of three different sets of EIC accelerator ring system specifications.

• Work with Accelerator Physicists and EIC System Managers to oversee the development, definition, and execution of the scope for conventional and superconducting (SC) magnets.

  • Definition and specification of EIC magnet functionality and performance.

  • Develop magnets and associated component systems from performance requirements and initial concept through computer aided analysis, detailed 3D modeling and design, and system interface efforts.

• Deliver all phases of the project work – design, engineering analysis, R&D, procurement and fabrication documentation packages, procurement and fabrication oversight and support, prototypes and first articles, incoming inspection and test, magnet system integration, installation, system testing and commissioning.

  • Execute and track procurements and production with vendors and partner labs.

  • Develop and implement test plans and QA inspections that include in-process inspection and testing, detailed magnetic measurement, analysis of results, design adjustments, and final approval of magnets for beam-line installation.

  • Execute the defined magnet scope within the project cost and schedule.

  • Support other project level managers with project activities including but not limited to budgeting exercises, EVMS practices, and scheduling.

  • Assess risk and mitigation strategies.

• As the EIC Project Magnet Group Leader:

  • Assign and supervise the work of group members and ensure they have the necessary qualifications, skills, experience and resources to deliver the assigned scope and carry out all work safely and professionally.

  • Guide and develop staff with high standards for quality of work and to meet anticipated workload requirements. 

  • Maintain and build a diverse and inclusive workforce in a professional, productive, respectful work environment. 

• Prepare and deliver engineering design presentations for BNL and Department of Energy reviews.

• Translate complex technical discussions into executive level summaries for leadership consumption.

• Advise and oversee the development and execution of reviews by the magnet engineering staff.

• Publish and present progress and research results at conferences

• Maintain an environment conducive to openness, collaboration, and respect for all.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Degree in physics, engineering, or other relevant discipline

  • PhD plus 6+ years of relevant experience, or

  • Master’s degree plus 12+ years of relevant experience, or

  • Bachelor’s degree plus 15+ years of relevant experience

• 4 years’ experience leading and/or managing personnel and projects, and a demonstrated record of successes with progressively increasing responsibilities.

• Experience in the design of particle accelerator conventional and superconducting magnets or similar magnet systems.

• Possess effective coaching and mentoring skills. Experience in giving real-time performance feedback and constructive criticism, as well as structured period performance reviews.

• Experience in 2D and 3D accelerator magnet design using finite element simulations, e.g., Opera, ROXIE, and/or COMSOL. 

• Experience with superconducting magnets and/or cryogenic distribution systems and components

• Experience working independently and interacting with and reporting to senior engineering and scientific staff for assignments, guidance, and support.

• Experience in large scale magnet fabrication and installation.

• Experience with creative engineering projects collaborating with a team to develop and build unique scientific equipment.

• Project development and management skills.

• Clear and concise written and oral communication skills.

• Proficient with MS Office, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Ability to leverage interpersonal skills to guide discussions, communicate vision, and achieve consensus.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience with 3D modeling using Creo, Solid Works, AutoCAD Inventor and/or CATIA.

• Proficient in ANSYS or equivalent thermal and stress engineering analysis software and generating engineering analysis reports.

• Programming experience in C, Python and/or MATLAB.

• Experience/expertise in magnetic measurement systems and equipment.

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and/or project experience that utilizes Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) for performance monitoring.

Environmental, Health & Safety Requirements:

• Will be required to become a qualified Radiation Worker and may be required to work in low level radiation areas.

Other Information:

• Occasional travel for attending conferences and presenting research papers, and visiting vendors, both nationally and internationally.

• The selected candidate will be placed at the appropriate professional level dependent upon depth and breadth of relevant knowledge and skills, as well as years of relevant experience.

• The selected candidate will be expected to work on-site at BNL a minimum of four days per week.

Brookhaven Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. This is a multi-level role and the full salary range for this position is $134550 - $253500 / year. You will be placed at the level and salary commensurate with your experience.  Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.