Communications Support Officer

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research organization established in 195

• It is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics and operates the world's largest particle physics laboratory. CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the globe, representing more than 100 nationalities. The organization is dedicated to understanding the fundamental structure of the universe and operates in multiple countries, with its headquarters located in Geneva, Switzerland.

Job Overview:
The Communications Support Officer position at CERN is designed for a self-motivated communications professional who possesses experience in scientific communication tailored for diverse audiences, including policymakers, educators, and the general public. The successful candidate will be responsible for promoting the CMS (Compact Muon Solenoid) experiment, one of the four major experiments at the CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC). This role involves producing simplified scientific materials across various media formats, such as social media, videos, printed documents, and web pages, as well as organizing communication events globally. The CMS experiment has been operational for over 15 years and is known for its significant contributions to particle physics, including the discovery of the Higgs boson. The Communications Support Officer will play a crucial role in sharing the achievements and technologies of CMS and will work closely with CMS management and CERN's central communications team to enhance the visibility and understanding of CMS's work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a member of the CMS External Communications team, the Communications Support Officer will implement and evolve the strategic communication plan for CMS. Key responsibilities include supporting the CMS Head of External Communications in all aspects of the strategic plan, producing and disseminating information about CMS's physics program and technological developments, managing social media platforms, and creating printed and promotional materials. The officer will also liaise with various teams within CMS and CERN, coordinate events for external audiences, and supervise interns and students. This role requires effective collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders to ensure the successful communication of CMS's work and achievements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in Science Communications or a related field. A basic understanding of particle physics and CERN's scientific programs is essential. The ideal candidate should have a strong track record in writing scientific content for non-expert audiences, particularly in the context of particle physics. Skills in creating and editing multimedia content, familiarity with the Adobe software suite, and effective use of social media platforms are highly desirable. The ability to work successfully in a multinational and multicultural environment is also crucial.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in Science Communications or a related field is required. Candidates with equivalent relevant experience may also be considered. A strong foundation in scientific principles, particularly in particle physics, will be beneficial for this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a basic knowledge of particle physics and CERN's scientific programs. Experience in writing scientific content for non-expert audiences is essential, ideally within a particle physics context. Candidates should also have a proven ability to create and edit multimedia content and effectively utilize social media to reach diverse audiences. Experience working in multinational and multicultural environments, particularly in scientific settings, is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, with a commitment to learning French considered an asset. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader audience.

Additional Notes:
This position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of applying for an indefinite position subject to certain conditions. The working hours are 40 hours per week, and the job offers hybrid flexibility. The role may require work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays based on the organization's needs. The job grade is classified as 4-5, and the reference for this position is EP-CMX-2025-233-LD. CERN values diversity and encourages applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.