Mechanical Engineer (TE-CRG-ME-2025-148-LD)

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 engineeering 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 CERN, helium needs to flow like water from a tap. CERN is the world's largest particle physics laboratory and its flagship accelerator, the Large Hadron Collider, depends on having an unrivalled set of cryogenic systems on hand to guarantee reliable operation. To sustain and extend its discovery potential, the LHC in undertaking a major upgrade, known as High Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC). New large-scale cryogenic infrastructure interfacing with existing machines and cryogenic distribution lines will be required. 

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 Mechanical Engineer in the Technology Department (TE), Cryogenics Group (CRG), Mechanical and Engineering support section (ME), and as a member of the Project Team for the Cryogenic Distribution System of the HL-LHC project your functions will include:

• Designing cryogenic equipment and overseeing its construction in close collaboration with external suppliers and internal partners. Managing the associated technical documentation;
• Organising the installation of complex cryogenic equipment. Preparing and managing the corresponding quality controls and documentation;
• Contributing to project management activities and quality assurance;
• Managing components procurement and production follow-up;
• Collaborating with people and services inside and outside the Organization.

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

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in the mechanical design of industrial equipment, preferably including pressure equipment;
• Contributing to the management of industrial projects, including planning, coordination of installation and commissioning activities, and interaction with suppliers and contractors;
• Experience with complex industrial processes, particularly in cryogenics or vacuum technologies, would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Design and analysis of mechanical structures: including thermo-mechanical analysis;
• 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 knowledge of tools and methods.

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.

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 14.01.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (4 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

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern