Civil Structural Engineer

Civil Structural Engineer

European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)

June 29, 2025August 13, 2025GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With a mission to probe the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's commitment to diversity and inclusion is a core value, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances innovation and discovery.

Job Overview:
The Civil Structural Engineer position at CERN is a unique opportunity for professionals with a background in structural and earthquake engineering to contribute to the enhancement of structural and building safety within a challenging infrastructure environment. The role involves providing design assistance and conducting research focused on structural safety, particularly in the context of earthquake engineering and fire safety. The successful candidate will work closely with a multi-disciplinary team, engaging in various activities that include the design of new structures, retrofitting existing buildings, and conducting on-site inspections. This position not only offers the chance to deepen one's expertise in civil engineering but also to be part of a mission that pushes the boundaries of scientific understanding.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Civil Structural Engineer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: supporting the design of new structures made from steel, concrete, timber, and masonry; assisting in the static and seismic retrofitting of existing buildings; checking and verifying structural design reports and technical specifications; revising structural safety aspects in technical specifications and tendering documents; conducting on-site inspections and diagnosing structural deficiencies; engaging in research related to structural safety, particularly in earthquake engineering and structural fire safety; supporting or executing fire resistance assessments of structures; contributing to Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) initiatives; and preparing guidelines, manuals, procedures, and presentations related to structural safety.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a solid background in civil structural engineering, with experience in designing concrete and steel structures. A thorough understanding of the structural Eurocodes is essential, along with knowledge of structural dynamics and finite element modeling. Experience in research within the fields of structural and earthquake engineering is required, as is proficiency in coding with Python or MATLAB. Additionally, knowledge of geotechnical design and Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) for underground infrastructures is considered valuable, as is familiarity with structural fire modeling and a multi-hazard approach to engineering.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate will have a professional background in Civil Structural Engineering or a related field, holding either a Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. It is important that candidates have not previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in civil structural engineering, with a focus on structural design and safety. Those with a PhD should have some post-doctoral experience, ideally within the context of structural and earthquake engineering research.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered a valuable asset for the position.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered on a contract basis for a duration of 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the target start date is January 1, 202
  • The role involves working in radiation areas and conducting interventions in underground installations, necessitating a valid driving license. The compensation package includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6287 to 6911 Swiss Francs (net of tax), comprehensive health coverage for the employee and their family, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year and will have access to both on-the-job and formal training opportunities at CERN, as well as in-house language courses.
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