Legal Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific intergovernmental organization established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. It employs physicists and engineers who utilize the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN has a mission to advance knowledge and understanding of the universe, and it operates in multiple countries, fostering a collaborative environment that values diversity and teamwork. The organization is known for its commitment to excellence and innovation, and it employs a diverse workforce to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The position of Legal Adviser at CERN involves providing legal support to the Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Department, which is responsible for establishing and interpreting the organization's regulatory framework concerning safety, radiation protection, occupational medicine, and environmental impact. The Legal Adviser will draft and review rules and policies related to health and safety and environmental protection, advise on legal matters within the HSE Department's mandate, and support various safety initiatives and committees. This role is crucial in ensuring compliance with legal standards and fostering a safe working environment at CERN, which is essential for the organization's scientific endeavors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Adviser will be responsible for the following duties:

• Drafting and reviewing the organization's rules and policies concerning health and safety and environmental protection.
• Advising on legal matters related to the HSE Department's mandate and strategic orientations of safety at CERN.
• Providing legal support for HSE initiatives and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
• Supporting internal and external safety committees, including those established through agreements with Host-States.
• Offering legal assistance in HSE matters to various stakeholders, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and understood.
• Collaborating with other departments to ensure a cohesive approach to health and safety regulations and practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in Law or a related field. They should have demonstrated knowledge and experience in legal and legal-drafting work, preferably in an international context. Experience in drafting internal regulations is advantageous, as is familiarity with the interpretation or implementation of EU and international regulations concerning health and safety or environmental protection. The ability to understand and interpret regulations and standards in technical domains is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in Law or a related field is required for this position. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in legal principles, particularly those relevant to health and safety and environmental law, enabling the candidate to effectively navigate the complexities of legal frameworks in an international scientific organization.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in legal work, particularly in legal drafting and advisory roles. Experience in an international environment is preferred, as it equips candidates with the necessary skills to handle the diverse legal challenges that may arise in a multinational organization like CERN. Familiarity with health and safety legislation and environmental regulations is also essential, as these areas are critical to the role.

Languages:
Fluency in both spoken and written English and French is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders, as CERN operates in a multilingual environment. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract tenure. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers hybrid flexibility. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this position is HSE-TS-2026-36-LD. CERN offers a competitive, tax-free salary that increases with relevant experience, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. The organization emphasizes diversity and welcomes applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.