ACCELERATOR OPERATOR

Job Description:

• • 1) Controls operation of particle accelerator used in research experiments involving properties of subatomic particles: Reviews experiment schedule to ascertain particle beam parameters specified by experimenter, such as energy, intensity, and repetition rate.
  • 2) Communicates with accelerator maintenance personnel to ensure readiness of support systems, such as vacuum, water cooling, and radiofrequency power source.
  • 3) Sets control panel switches, according to standard procedures, to route electric power from source and direct particle beam through injector unit.
  • 4) Turns panel controls and watches meters and panel lights to adjust beam steering units and direct beam to accelerator.
  • 5) Pushes console buttons in prescribed sequence to control beam path in accelerator.
  • 6) Adjusts controls to increase beam pulse rate, energy, and intensity to specified levels.
  • 7) Notifies experimenter in target control room when beam parameters meet specifications.
  • 8) Pushes control levers to steer beam to experimenter’s target, as directed.
  • 9) Monitors readings at console during experiment to ensure accelerator systems meet specifications and notifies experimenter of condition.
  • 10) Alters beam parameters during experiment as directed.
  • 11) Ensures that maintenance workers vacate hazardous locations before operations.
  • 12) Records data in log relative to beam specifications, equipment settings used, and beam conditions obtained for future reference.
  • 13) Participates in maintenance and modification of systems as member of team.
  • 14) May be designated according to type of accelerator operated.