Project Safety Support Specialist

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 uncover 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, 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 fundamental particles and their interactions.

Job Overview:
The Project Safety Support Specialist role is designed for a proactive individual who will play a crucial part in supporting the execution and safety readiness of various new projects at CERN. These projects include the establishment of a chemical laboratory for nano-materials and a new beam dump facility. The position requires a blend of project management assistance and safety coordination, ensuring that safety protocols are seamlessly integrated throughout all phases of the projects. The work environment is a combination of office-based tasks and on-site project support, which necessitates a flexible approach to work. The specialist will be expected to support project managers from the design phase through to commissioning, facilitating the coordination of schedules, resources, documentation, and stakeholder communication. This role is vital in maintaining safety standards and ensuring that all safety documentation is prepared and monitored effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Safety Support Specialist include supporting project managers across all phases of project execution, from design through commissioning. This involves facilitating coordination of schedules, resources, documentation, and stakeholder communication. The specialist will assist safety officers and work package leaders with conducting risk assessments related to chemical, nano, and radiological hazards, as well as implementing and monitoring safety controls. Preparation of safety documentation, including user requirements and safety files, is a key responsibility. The role also includes providing advice on critical safety elements associated with target systems, such as production targets, shielding, and vacuum vessels. Additionally, the specialist will support design and optimization efforts for a service cell for radioactive waste packaging and highly radioactive target inspection. The execution of D/FFMEA studies and processes for the HI-ECN3 project, as well as overseeing a nuclear dismantling contract for a large underground structure within the NA-CONS project, are also part of the responsibilities. On-site supervision and contractor coordination will be required as needed, making this a multifaceted role that demands a high level of expertise and attention to detail.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Project Safety Support Specialist position must demonstrate experience in project execution, safety documentation, worksite risk management, and commissioning activities. They should have a proven track record of working in complex project environments and safety-critical worksites. Strong knowledge of chemical and radiological safety standards is essential, along with effective written and verbal communication skills to coordinate multiple stakeholders. The ability to take initiative, pay attention to detail, and work independently is also crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in engineering or a related field. Candidates with a PhD in a relevant area are also considered, provided they have no more than three years of post-graduation professional experience. The educational qualifications are designed to ensure that the specialist has a solid foundation in engineering principles and safety protocols relevant to the projects at CERN.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Project Safety Support Specialist position includes having 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. This experience should be in areas related to project execution, safety documentation, and worksite risk management, particularly in complex project environments.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is spoken and written English. Candidates should also have a commitment to learn French, which is considered a good to have language skill for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with a possible extension of up to 36 months maximum. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job flexibility is fully onsite. The target start date for this position is January 1, 202

• This role involves work in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations, necessitating a valid driving license. The job reference for this position is SY-STI-RBS-2025-183-GRAP. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6287 to 6911 Swiss Francs per month (net of tax), coverage by CERN's comprehensive health scheme for the employee and their family, and membership in the CERN Pension Fund. Additional benefits may include installation grants, family allowances, and travel expense payments at the beginning and end of the contract. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year, and there are opportunities for on-the-job and formal training at CERN, as well as in-house language courses for English and/or French.