Cryogenic Engineer

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. It employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the globe. CERN's mission is to probe the fundamental structure of the universe, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. The organization operates in multiple countries and is committed to diversity and inclusion as a core value.

Job Overview:
As a Cryogenic Engineer at CERN, you will be part of the Engineering Department, specifically within the Mechanical & Materials Engineering Group. Your primary focus will be on developing and operating advanced thermal property measurement systems that are crucial for testing materials and components used in high-energy physics projects. This role requires a hands-on approach to work in a laboratory environment, where you will engage in measuring thermal conductivity and specific heat at cryogenic temperatures, down to 2 K. You will also contribute to the validation and optimization of cryogenic instrumentation and experimental techniques, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams that include engineers, material scientists, and external research institutions. This position is ideal for someone who is eager to push the boundaries of material testing under extreme conditions and is passionate about contributing to groundbreaking scientific research.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and operate advanced thermal property measurement systems for measuring thermal conductivity and specific heat at cryogenic temperatures.
• Validate and optimize cryogenic instrumentation and experimental techniques used at CERN and in collaboration with international partners.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and material scientists, on R&D initiatives and global projects such as VAMAS.
• Support the design, commissioning, and continual improvement of cryogenic test benches.
• Engage in hands-on laboratory work to push the limits of material testing under extreme conditions.
• Document and report findings and progress to relevant stakeholders.
• Participate in training and development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge in cryogenics and material science.

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of cryogenic systems and technologies.
• Hands-on laboratory experience in a relevant field.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and good organizational abilities.
• Ability to build relationships and show courtesy and consideration in dealings with others.
• Spoken and written proficiency in English, with a commitment to learn French.
• Eligibility criteria include being a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and having a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in Cryogenics, Material Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Applicants must hold either a Bachelor's or Master's degree; those without a university degree or with a PhD are not eligible.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess either a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cryogenics, Material Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Applicants without a university degree are not eligible, and those with a PhD are also not eligible for this position.

Experience:
The position requires a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in a relevant field such as Cryogenics, Material Science, or Mechanical Engineering. This experience should be hands-on and applicable to the duties outlined in the job description.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French as part of their professional development.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is for 24 months, with a possible extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The target start date for this position is November 1, 202

• The job reference is EN-MME-EDM-2025-135-GRAE. The position offers a monthly stipend ranging between 5196 and 5716 Swiss Francs (net of tax), coverage by CERN's comprehensive health scheme, and membership in the CERN Pension Fund. Additional benefits may include an installation grant, family allowances, and payment of travel expenses at the beginning and end of the contract. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year and will have access to on-the-job and formal training, as well as in-house language courses for English and/or French.