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:

The Engineering Department (EN) pushes forward the limits of technology to provide innovative research tools to the physics and engineering worldwide community. The position is open in the Mechanical and Materials Engineering (MME) Group, which provides specific engineering solutions for CERN, combining mechanical design, fabrication facilities, and material science support.

In particular, you will work in the MME Main Workshop, which masters a wide range of machining technologies and performs critical production for the CERN Accelerator Complex and Experiments, through dedicated in-house fabrication facilities and subcontracting. You will join a team of highly qualified technicians and engineers, and you will use state-of-the-art CNC machining equipment for the fabrication of complex parts.

As a Mechanical Technician in CERN's Engineering Department, you'll have the opportunity to be part in the process of mechanical fabrication of components for CERN's particle accelerators. Come test yourself against a diverse range of technologies, serving as the enabler of physics experiments through mechanical fabrication.

Functions:

As a CNC machining technician specializing in milling-turning, you will join an existing team of technicians and engineers, contribute through hands-on, technical expertise, and extend current knowledge and practices. In particular, you will be responsible for the manufacturing of mechanical parts:

• Developing machining and manufacturing methods for the production of high-precision prototypes and components for accelerators and experimental facilities.
• Participating in the whole fabrication process, including product design review, materials and parts selection, CNC programming, tooling set-up, and assembly methods.
• Setting up and performing a wide range of machining operations, including CNC programming and hands-on machining on both CNC and conventional equipment. Producing complex mechanical setups, writing and modifying programs as needed to meet quality and fabrication
• Designing and fabricating holding fixtures to ensure precision, safety, and repeatability during machining operations.
• Planning machining sequences for both standard and custom high-precision components, documenting processes, and executing quality control on the machined parts.

Qualifications

Higher technical diploma or equivalent relevant experience in the field of mechanics, with specialization in machining or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated, hands-on experience in operating state-of-the-art CNC milling machines and/or CNC lathes.
• For milling: demonstrated, hands-on experience with advanced programming of CNC milling machines (SIEMENS).
• For lathes: demonstrated, hands-on experience with advanced programming of CNC turning machines (FANUC). Specific experience in operating and programming advanced WFL MILLTURN Programming would be an asset.
• Experience leading a team within a small mechanical workshop would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of conventional dimensional metrology: ability to read/interpret technical drawings and ISO dimensioning and tolerancing; ability to perform conventional dimensional metrology with equipment within workshop environment; knowledge of CAD tools, preferably CATIATM, would be an asset.
• Manufacturing of mechanical parts.
• Programming and use of CNC machine-tools and machining centres: CNC machining at advanced level, including programming (e.g. SIEMENS, Fanuc, WFL Millturn Programming).

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations; having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Communicating effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
• Demonstrating flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Solving problems: being open to original ideas and creative options by which to address issues; continually driving change by seeking new ways to improve outcomes.
• Working in teams: contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Additional Information

Eligibility and closing date:

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 08.08.2025 at 23:59 CEST.

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 driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 3-4

Job reference: EN-MME-MA-2025-139-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Technician