Mechanical Engineer (Ultra-High Vacuum) (TE-VSC-DLM-2025-263-LD)

Introduction

You will have a pivotal role designing, prototyping, and industrialising ultra-high-vacuum components for accelerator upgrades and new projects, owning structural analyses, test and acceptance plans, supplier interfaces and fabrication follow-up to deliver installation-ready hardware. You’ll work with a team within the Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings (VSC) Group which values clear engineering standards, rigorous safety and quality and close collaboration with operations, test facilities and industry partners. 

Functions

• Design and evaluate the structural performance of high-vacuum equipment using finite element modelling (FEM) codes, with emphasis on buckling and vibrational behaviour; 
• Select the most appropriate and affordable materials and fabrication techniques for accelerator vacuum components; 
• Bring designed equipment first to prototyping and then to industrial production. Write technical specifications. Search, select and cooperate with industrial suppliers and service contract providers;
• Follow-up the technical aspects of industrial contracts providing the preparation and implementation of quality assurance (QA) and control (QC) programmes; 
• Identify new opportunities of collaboration and in-kind contribution with external institutes and industry partners for accelerator vacuum components; 
• Document the results in reports, scientific publications and presentations.  

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical Engineering. A PhD in the field of Structural Mechanics or a related field would be an asset.

Experience:

• Proven experience in the design and simulation of complex mechanical systems; 
• Proven experience in preparing and implementing QA/QC protocols;
• Demonstrated experience in preparing technical specifications and monitoring technical contracts with industrial suppliers; 
• Experience in scientific writing and presenting technical results at management and scientific forums; 
• Knowledge in standard high and ultra-high-vacuum components and piping would be an advantage; 
• Knowledge in ultra-high-vacuum sealing techniques would be an advantage;
• Knowledge in the operation and maintenance of ultra-high-vacuum systems would be an advantage. 

Technical competencies:

• Design and analysis of mechanical structures (static, dynamic, modal, and vibration);
• Drafting of commercial documents for a supply or a service contract;
• Specification and follow-up of technical aspects of a contract;
• Knowledge and application of manufacturing methods and work preparation;
• Knowledge and application of conventional dimensional metrology;
• Design and analysis of high-vacuum systems.

Behavioural competencies:

• Working in Teams: cooperating constructively with others in the pursuit of team goals; balancing personal goals with team goals;
• Communicating Effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented;
• Achieving Results: defining clear objectives, milestones and deliverables before initiating work/ project;
• Solving Problems: testing solutions for long-term suitability, cross-checking with all concerned before implementation;
• Managing Self: maintaining a positive outlook even in difficult situations; demonstrating resilience and persistence in response to setbacks and adversity.

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 Organisation. 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 31.01.2026 at 23:59 CET.

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

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Shift work, stand-by duty, and work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-VSC-DLM-2025-263-LD

Field of work: Mechanical Engineering

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