Although engineers and physicists may be responsible for the equipment, trained electricians install, operate and maintain it. A typical electrician might have a two-year degree, lots of practical experience or both. Physicists Nuclear physicists study the atom's nucleus. An important job for them is preparing and operating the equipment used in accelerator experiments. Accelerator physicists design, build and operate the accelerator.
Physicists have Ph.D. degrees.
Health Physicists and Safety and Environmental Specialists Operating an accelerator requires good safety. Health physicists and safety and environmental specialists make sure that the people who operate the machine are protected from the dangers that can be involved if people are not careful. They also make sure the operation of Jefferson Lab does not harm the public and the environment. Formal education for these kinds of jobs can range through and beyond a four-year college degree. Electronics and Mechanical Technicians Skilled technicians build, operate and maintain equipment.