CERN - European Organization for Nuclear Research

Company Description

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

Job Description

Introduction

Are you a professional firefighter looking for an exciting new challenge? Are you eager to join a world-renowned international organization that offers a unique, cutting-edge environment? No matter your family situation, we have an amazing opportunity for you.

At CERN’s Fire and Rescue Service, you’ll work in a dynamic, high-tech industrial setting while collaborating with firefighting professionals from 15 different countries. Our diverse and inclusive team is committed to excellence in fire safety, emergency response, and professional growth. Join us and take part of something extraordinary!

Firefighters at CERN operate on a 12-hour shift system and are on call 24/7. In addition to emergency response duties, they engage in regular training and maintenance activities, ensuring optimal operational capacity and fire safety. Maintenance primarily focuses on fire extinguishers and hose reels, with most tasks performed during the week.

CERN’s Fire and Rescue Service collaborates closely with emergency services from both France and Switzerland, conducting joint interventions and training exercises whenever possible.

Functions

After completing an initial 10-week on-the-job training program tailored to CERN’s environment, you will join your assigned team and take on the following responsibilities:

• Emergency response: perform firefighting, medical emergency response, and rescue operations.
• Safety Control Room operations: monitor and manage emergency dispatch activities.
• Technical inspections & patrols: conduct safety checks and ensure compliance with fire regulations.
• Specialized assistance: provide support in confined space operations, hazardous material handling, and transport missions involving special risks.
• Training & exercises: participate in regular drills and continuous professional development in line with the Fire and Rescue Service’s training plan.
• Fire prevention & awareness: engage in fire safety initiatives, training sessions, and collaborative safety projects.
• Equipment maintenance: ensure the upkeep of firefighting and medical emergency equipment, including fire extinguishers and hydrants.
• Project participation: contribute to ongoing projects within the Fire and Rescue Service.
• Administrative & operational support: assist with necessary administrative duties and team-wide responsibilities.
• Physical training: participate in both individual and group fitness programs.

Qualifications

You have the diplomas and/or certificates that bring proof of you being educated and trained as a firefighter. These diplomas and certificates are issued by a public body or a private body acting under the delegation of a public service.

Experience:

You currently work, and have demonstrated experience, as a professional firefighter in a public or company fire service. Experience in control room or ambulance settings would be an advantage.

Technical competencies:

• Emergency first response: firefighting, rescue operations, and emergency medical care.
• Hazardous materials response operations: response operations for hazardous material incidents.
• Teaching and training: providing training to fellow firefighters and the general public.
• Fire safety inspections: conducting technical assessments and compliance checks.
• Firefighting operations: interior firefighting and fire engine operation.

Behavioural competencies:

• Demonstrating Flexibility: demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supporting initiatives for change being able to deal with ambiguous or unpredictable situations; adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information; acknowledging the contribution of colleagues; recognizing their limitations and offering support to overcome their difficulties.
• Building Relationships: relating well to all people regardless of category/level within the Organization; caring about the well-being of others.
• Demonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisions.
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting; taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language. The ability to understand and speak the other language in everyday/emergency situations is an advantage. CERN offers language courses to quickly master both French and English.

Additional Information

Eligibility and closing date:

For more information about working in CERN's Fire and Rescue Service, click here.

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 17.08.2025 at 23:59 CEST. Please ensure to include a CV in either English or French.

Start date: 01 March 2026.

Virtual Q&A Sessions

We will be hosting 2 virtual Q&A sessions in July and August. Please register on the link below for the respective date that you would like to join.

• 22.07.2025 (interaction via camera/microphone possible)
• 12.08.2025 (no camera/microphone option)

You can also join the CERN Firefighter Talent Community via this link.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:

• A valid C driving licence.
• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Residence in the immediate vicinity of the Organization's installations.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Shift work, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Interventions in underground installations.

Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 2-3

Job reference: HSE-FRS-OP-2025-83-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Firefighter

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