Procurement Professional

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 physicists and engineers who work on groundbreaking projects using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, making it a leading institution in the field of particle physics.

Job Overview:
As a Procurement Professional within the Supplies section of CERN's Procurement and Industrial Services Group, you will play a crucial role in supporting the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) project. This position involves developing, implementing, and monitoring procurement strategies for contracts of varying sizes, ensuring that technical, delivery, and performance requirements are met while adhering to CERN's Procurement Rules. Your work will be pivotal in achieving balanced industrial returns for Member States and ensuring that the project is executed at the lowest overall cost. You will collaborate with technical teams to define procurement needs, set budgetary constraints, and establish delivery timelines, while also conducting market research to stay informed about trends that may impact the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your responsibilities will include collaborating with technical teams to define procurement needs for the HL-LHC project, setting budgetary constraints, and establishing delivery timelines. You will conduct thorough research on market and technological trends that could affect the project, such as fluctuations in raw material prices, economic conditions impacting contractor stability, and changes in regulatory frameworks. Additionally, you will work with technical teams to develop a cost-efficient procurement strategy and policies that align with project quality and objectives. You will identify and source a pipeline of qualified suppliers, lead specific procurements by conducting price inquiries, negotiating terms, and placing orders and contracts. Regular reporting to management on procurement progress will be essential, as will documenting lessons learned and suggesting improvements for future projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess knowledge and experience in the procurement of mechanical engineering work and/or indirect purchases. Strong communication skills are essential, as you will need to challenge constructively, adapt to feedback, and persuade others effectively. Proficiency in leading negotiation teams in commercial, technical, and contractual negotiations is required, along with the ability to navigate ambiguity and conflict. Skills in commercial and contractual documentation writing, reviewing complex technical specifications, and excellent presentation abilities are also necessary. Experience working in cross-functional teams will be beneficial.

Educational Background:
A professional background in Engineering, Purchasing, Economics, or a related field is required. Candidates should have 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 to note that candidates must not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a professional background that includes either 2 to 6 years of experience post-Master's degree or up to 3 years of experience post-PhD. This experience should be relevant to procurement and project management within engineering or related fields, demonstrating a solid understanding of the procurement process and the ability to manage contracts effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and candidates should be committed to learning French. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication and collaboration 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 working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers a hybrid working model. The target start date for this position is February 1, 202

• The job reference is IPT-PI-SU-2025-188-GRAP. Compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6287 to 6911 Swiss Francs (net of tax), comprehensive health coverage for the employee and their family, and membership in the CERN Pension Fund. Additional benefits may include an installation grant, family allowances, and travel expense coverage at the beginning and end of the contract. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year, and opportunities for on-the-job and formal training, as well as in-house language courses, are provided.