Mechanical Technician In Heavy Handling Section (En-He-Hh-2026-5-Ld)

At CERN, the European Organisation 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.

Introduction

The Engineering Department (EN) provides CERN with the Engineering expertise, Infrastructure Systems and Technical Coordination necessary for the design, installation, operation, maintenance and dismantling phases of the CERN accelerator complex and its experimental facilities.

The position is within the Handling Engineering Group (EN-HE), responsible for preparing, organising and coordinating all transport and handling operations for the CERN accelerators and experiments. The Group also manages the transport of thousands of conventional and unconventional items, chemical and radioactive products each year.

As a Mechanical Technician in EN-HE, you will be responsible for organising and supervising transport, handling and lifting operations of goods in accelerators complex, experimental areas and industrial buildings both underground and in surface premises.

Functions

As a Mechanical Technician, member of EN-HE-HH Section, you will:

• Coordinate transport and handling operations for the Accelerators complex, Experiments, and surface premises.
• Collaborate with the EN-HE design office to develop special handling tools and conduct logistic studies.
• Collaborate with Radiation Protection Services to establish/redact the Work Dose Planning and Radiological work permit (DIMR).
• Participate in coordination and planning meetings in order to evaluate technical and resources needs.
• Propose and/or assess possible handling and transport solutions.
• For specific operations, analyse working procedures and Safety assessment.
• Supervise activities on site, ensuring Safety during the operations in both conventional and radioactive environments.
• Perform handling operations in specific situations.
• Participate in the on-call service.

Technical certificate or general secondary education or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanics or Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Experience:

As Mechanical Technician:

• Extensive experience in heavy handling and transport operation.s
• Proven experience in worksite logistics.
• Proven experience in technical contract supervision.
• Proven experience of work in radioactive environment will be an asset.
• Proven experience in the field of transport of dangerous items (radioactive and chemical products) will be an asset.
• Basic knowledge of remote-handling systems.

Technical competencies:

• Design, construction, operation and maintenance of compressed air systems.
• Definition of transport systems in collaboration with other services of the group
• Operation of lifting and handling equipment.
• Operation of transport systems.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Solving Problems: anticipating obstacles; assessing alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan.
• Working in Teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Working in the Interest of the Organisation: following rules and regulations and encouraging others to do the same.

Language skills:

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

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 12.02.2026 at 23:59 CET.

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

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Shift work, and work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
• Exposure to risk of falling from heights during scaffolding assembly and dismantling operations.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 3-4

Job reference: EN-HE-HH-2026-5-LD

Field of work: Mechanical Engineering

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Technician

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