Safety Engineer

Safety Engineer

European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)

August 1, 2026September 15, 2026GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. It employs physicists and engineers who utilize the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN operates in multiple countries and is known for its collaborative environment that fosters innovation and scientific discovery. The organization values diversity and inclusion, making it a core part of its mission since its inception.

Job Overview:
As a Safety Engineer at CERN, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the world's most complex particle accelerators. This position is not just about supporting safety; it involves actively shaping safety protocols in a cutting-edge scientific environment. You will be responsible for evaluating safety requirements, implementing risk mitigation strategies, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations in various installations, laboratories, and workshops. Your work will directly contribute to the safe operation of CERN's fixed target experimental areas, enhancing both safety and performance in the Beams Department.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your primary duties will include evaluating safety requirements and implementing risk mitigation strategies for accelerator operations and large-scale projects. You will conduct safety audits, inspections, and testing to assess compliance with safety standards. Authorizing activities through safety evaluations and issuing safety permits will be part of your responsibilities, ensuring that all operations adhere to CERN's safety rules. Additionally, you will provide training and promote awareness on safety-related matters, ensuring that best practices are understood and applied across the organization. You will also contribute to the continuous improvement of CERN's safety and quality management systems, including maintaining accurate documentation.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, you must possess a Master's Degree or equivalent relevant experience in fields such as Nuclear Engineering, Occupational Health and Safety, Aerospace Engineering, or Process Engineering. Strong candidates will have demonstrated experience in safety engineering, risk evaluation, and the licensing process within complex technical environments, such as research facilities or large-scale engineering projects. Experience in writing documentation and quality management for regulated industries is essential, as is the ability to conduct inspections and incident analyses effectively. Strong communication skills and the ability to foster a safety culture through training and stakeholder engagement are also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Master's Degree or equivalent in a relevant field, such as Nuclear Engineering, Occupational Health and Safety, Aerospace Engineering, or Process Engineering. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of safety engineering in high-stakes environments.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in safety engineering and risk evaluation, particularly in complex technical environments. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on safety documentation and quality management in regulated industries. Experience in conducting inspections and incident analyses, as well as liaising with stakeholders to promote safety culture, is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the other language being a strong asset. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the diverse environment at CERN.

Additional Notes:
This position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract thereafter. The job requires a commitment to working 40 hours per week, fully onsite, and may involve work in radiation areas, interventions in underground installations, and occasional work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays as required by the organization. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this position is BE-ASR-SU-2026-163-LD. CERN offers a competitive salary that is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance, and various family allowances depending on individual circumstances.
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