Operator Development  at SLAC
Scott Anderson

WAO ‘98 Abstract

Accelerator operators at the Main Control Center at SLAC are charged with the safe and 
efficient operation of the accelerator systems which deliver high energy  e- and e+ beams 
to many experiments at SLAC, such as the SLC, fixed target experiments, ILC 
development projects such as the Final Focus Test Beam,  and the new PEP II B-factory. 
Accelerator operator training is complex due to the large number of tasks an operator 
must perform rapidly, efficiently and safely.  The development of an accelerator operator 
at SLAC is an ongoing process, which starts with hiring and continues with qualification 
steps along the way

New operators rarely come to SLAC with the specific skills needed to operate an 
accelerator. Good analytical, communication and self motivation skills are sought in new 
hires and these baseline attributes form the foundation of the training program. The 
operator training program is a combination of on the job training, training lectures, and 
self study.  Safety and machine operation  training are separate areas of qualification for 
an operator.  The safety duties of the job have stringent qualification standards detailed in 
written procedures and reference documents. Safety qualification is obtained by studying 
all written procedures and then demonstrating these procedures to  senior operations staff 
and the operator supervisor. Accelerator operation methods are learned mostly through 
on the job training and self study with qualification through checklists signed off by  
senior operations staff.  Off shift and downtime projects are encouraged because they 
provide opportunities for in-depth study of specific aspects of machine operation.  
Supplemental outside training such as USPASs and local university course work is also 
encouraged, though the direct application to machine operation is usually limited.