Fire 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 pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. CERN's mission is to explore the fundamental structure of the universe, using advanced scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter and the fundamental laws of nature.

Job Overview:
The Fire Officer position at CERN involves a combination of operational command and managerial responsibilities within the Fire and Rescue Service. The successful candidate will lead and coordinate emergency response operations, ensuring effective planning, training, and continuous improvement of the service. This role requires a hands-on approach, with direct engagement in daily fire station activities and team leadership. The Fire Officer will be responsible for maintaining operational readiness, overseeing personnel, vehicles, and equipment, and ensuring timely interventions during emergencies. The position also involves contributing to operational planning, emergency preparedness, and risk management, as well as leading firefighter training and exercises to promote operational competence and teamwork. The Fire Officer will participate in both operational and administrative management, supporting projects and stakeholder engagement to enhance safety and operational excellence.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide operational command during firefighting, rescue, and accident response incidents in a high-risk industrial environment.
• Act as the on-duty Fire Officer, coordinating effectively with internal services and external emergency responders in both France and Switzerland.
• Maintain continuous operational readiness through oversight of personnel, vehicles, and equipment.
• Engage in daily fire station activities, demonstrating strong leadership and operational presence.
• Contribute to operational planning, emergency preparedness, and risk management, including post-incident follow-up and continuous improvement actions.
• Lead and support firefighter training, drills, and exercises to promote operational competence and teamwork.
• Participate in operational and administrative management, supporting projects, innovation, and stakeholder engagement to enhance safety and operational excellence.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess diplomas and/or certificates proving their education and training as a Fire Officer or in related fields such as Emergency Management, Operations Management, Incident Command, Fire Science, Fire Engineering, Civil Protection, or Public Safety. A recognized Fire Officer certification issued by a public authority or an accredited body is required, along with formal training in incident command (Bronze level or equivalent).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes formal training in fire science, emergency management, or a related field. Candidates should have completed a recognized fire officer training program that equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform effectively in high-pressure emergency situations.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least five years of experience as a Fire Officer in an urban, industrial, or large organized fire service. This experience should demonstrate proven operational command capability and a sound knowledge of incident command systems. Candidates should have a strong understanding of fire station operations, readiness management, training, exercises, and operational preparedness. Experience working with partner emergency services and stakeholders is essential, along with a strong interest in innovation, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing.

Languages:
Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective communication within the diverse international environment at CERN.

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 role is fully onsite. The Fire Officer will participate in regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays, and official holidays, and will be required to work in radiation areas. The selected candidate must reside in the immediate vicinity of CERN's installations and obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed. The job grade is 4-5, and the reference for this position is HSE-FRS-2026-3-LD. The compensation package includes a competitive salary, 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances.