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:

It's big, it's loud, it's cold, and it's one of the most challenging and exciting environments you can work in! Join the mechanical engineering team of the Cryogenic Group for a unique opportunity to work on machines that constitute nearly half of the world's large helium liquefiers. CERN, Take Part!

At this world-leading research centre, helium needs to flow like water from a tap! To prepare for the next generation of particle colliders, such as the Future Circular Collider, CERN is launching an ambitious program for the development of Cryogenic Superconducting Radio Frequency Cavities and for the construction of dedicated cryogenic test facilities.

The Cryogenics Group (CRG) in the Technology Department (TE) is responsible for the design, construction, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of cryogenic systems for accelerators and detectors, as well as for cryogenic test facilities. The group also supports low-temperature developments and tests at the Central Cryogenic Laboratory which provides expertise in cryogenic design and instrumentation.

Functions:

As a Mechanical Engineer in the Technology Department (TE), Cryogenics Group (CRG), Mechanical and Engineering support section (ME), you will contribute to the design, procurement, installation and commissioning of cryogenic systems and devices needed for CERN accelerators, detectors and test facilities. Your main functions will include:

• Perform thermo-hydraulic and thermo-mechanical design and analysis of cryogenic equipment.
• Design cryogenic equipment and follow its construction in close collaboration with external suppliers and internal partners.
• Write technical specifications of cryogenic components and systems.
• Contribute to the management of projects and their quality control.
• Manage market surveys, material procurement and production follow-up.
• Supervise teams for the design, construction, assembly, installation, testing and commissioning of cryogenic equipment.
• Manage the associated technical documentation and Quality Assurance plan.

Qualifications

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of mechanical engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Mechanical design of industrial equipment, preferably in the process or cryogenics field, including the preparation of technical specifications and support to procurement.
• Contributing to the management of industrial projects, including planning, coordination of installation and commissioning activities, and interaction with suppliers and contractors.
• Dealing with complex industrial processes, involving cryogenics, pressure equipment or vacuum technologies, would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Design and analysis of mechanical structures: including thermo-mechanical analysis.
• Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in solid mechanics.
• Knowledge and application of thermodynamics and energetics: including heat transfer and fluid mechanics.
• Knowledge and application of manufacturing methods and work preparation: including definition, process, preparation, planning, drawing, and control.
• Project management: including the knowledge of tools and method.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: being rigorous and producing quality results at first attempt; having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer.
• Solving problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.
• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting; taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
• Working in teams: seeking to help other team members when own work is done; supporting others; working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

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 20.09.2025 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:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Exposure to ionizing radiation and classified as category A
• Operations on electrical installations or in their vicinity (over 1000 Volt AC or 1500 Volt DC) requiring a specific authorization.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-CRG-ME-2025-148-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Engineer