Electrical Designer

Electrical Designer

European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)

September 16, 2025October 31, 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. The organization employs over 2,500 staff members and has a diverse workforce from more than 100 nationalities. CERN operates in multiple countries, primarily in Europe, and is known for its groundbreaking research in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the fundamental constituents of matter.

Job Overview:
The Electrical Engineering Group (EN-EL) at CERN is tasked with managing the electrical power-distribution network, which spans from 400 kV to 400/230V, as well as overseeing the fibre-optics infrastructure and signal and DC-power cabling for the accelerator complex. As an Electrical Designer within the Electrical Design and Documentation Office (EN-EL-DDO), you will play a crucial role in strategic projects, including the electrical renovation of the AWAKE accelerator and various electrical substation consolidation projects. Your responsibilities will include designing low voltage distribution networks, conducting equipment sizing, and performing protection, lighting, and earthing studies. You will work closely with senior design managers, gradually taking on projects of increasing complexity as you gain experience and confidence in your role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your primary duties will include the design of electrical distribution circuits, preparation of design drawings related to single line diagrams, and the creation of calculation notes, lighting studies, and earthing studies. You will also be responsible for preparing bills of material for electrical-related equipment. In addition to these design tasks, you will need to identify the needs and requirements from design managers or project managers, support project managers in preparing technical documents, and work with CERN's equipment databases. Planning and follow-up of activities will also be part of your responsibilities, ensuring that projects are completed on time and meet the required specifications.

Required Qualifications:
To be eligible for this position, you must be a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State. A professional background in Electrical Engineering or a related field is essential. You should possess 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. Additionally, you must not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering or a closely related field. This educational background is crucial as it provides the theoretical foundation necessary for the design and analysis of electrical systems and networks, which are central to the role.

Experience:
The position requires proven experience in the design of low voltage distribution networks, including selectivity, detailed calculation notes, and knowledge of European LV standards. Familiarity with protection systems, UPS, generators, and various earthing systems is also necessary. Experience with low voltage design calculation tools such as ElecCalc or Caneco is essential, as well as proficiency in AutoCAD. Additional experience in designing lighting systems using DIALux and secondary design with E-PLAN or similar software is beneficial.

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

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The target start date is January 1, 202
  • The role involves working in radiation areas and performing interventions in underground installations, which necessitates a valid driving license. The position offers a competitive monthly stipend ranging from 6287 to 6911 Swiss Francs (net of tax), comprehensive health coverage for you and your family, and membership in the CERN Pension Fund. Additional benefits may include installation grants, family allowances, and travel expense reimbursements at the beginning and end of the contract. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year, and CERN provides on-the-job training as well as formal training opportunities, including in-house language courses.
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