Procurement Support Officer

Procurement Support Officer

European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)

February 26, 2026April 12, 2026GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution established in 195
  • It is located in Geneva, Switzerland, and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics. CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world, representing more than 100 nationalities. The organization operates in multiple countries, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration in the pursuit of scientific knowledge.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Support Officer position at CERN involves managing simplified tender processes for contracts valued between CHF 10,000 and CHF 50,00
  • The role requires ensuring compliance with CERN's procurement rules and procedures while providing operational support and guidance to CERN users throughout their procurement activities. This position is particularly suited for individuals eager to develop expertise in procurement within a dynamic and international organization. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in verifying the conformity of orders with CERN's purchasing regulations, ensuring that technical, delivery, and performance requirements are met. Additionally, maintaining accurate documentation and records for auditing and reporting purposes is a key responsibility.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Manage simplified tender processes for contracts valued between CHF 10,000 and CHF 50,000, ensuring adherence to CERN's procurement rules and procedures.
  • Verify the conformity of orders with CERN's purchasing regulations, ensuring that all technical, delivery, and performance requirements are met.
  • Provide operational support and guidance to CERN users throughout their procurement journey, assisting them in navigating the procurement process effectively.
  • Maintain accurate documentation and records for auditing and reporting purposes, ensuring compliance with internal and external regulations.
  • Collaborate with various stakeholders, both internally and externally, to facilitate smooth procurement operations.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of procurement strategies that align with CERN's objectives.
  • Participate in training sessions and workshops to enhance procurement knowledge and skills.

Required Qualifications:
  • Initial experience in procurement, contract management, or administrative support is required.
  • Proficiency in leading contractual negotiations is essential.
  • Experience working in an international or multicultural setting is an advantage.
  • Familiarity with ERP systems and standard office tools is necessary.
  • Strong skills in commercial and contractual documentation writing are required.
  • Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in contract management and compliance with procedures is crucial.
  • Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
  • Strong communication skills to interact with multi-cultural stakeholders, both internally and externally.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Business Administration, Procurement, or a related field. Applicants without a university degree are not eligible for this position, and those with a PhD are also not eligible. The educational background should be relevant to the responsibilities of the role, ensuring that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for effective procurement management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in a relevant field such as Business Administration or Procurement. This experience should ideally include exposure to procurement processes, contract management, or administrative support roles, providing a solid foundation for the responsibilities of the Procurement Support Officer position.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is spoken and written English. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English, with a commitment to learn French being an additional asset. Knowledge of French will enhance communication with multi-cultural stakeholders and contribute to a more effective procurement process at CERN.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 12 months, with a possible extension of up to 36 months maximum. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers flexibility with a hybrid working model. The target start date for this position is 01-May-202
  • The job reference for this position is IPT-PI-OS-2026-53-GRAE. The role falls under the field of Support Services, specifically in Finance, HR, Legal, and Procurement. The benchmark job code is 5B0150 - Procurement Support Officer. Compensation includes a monthly stipend between 5266-5793 Swiss Francs per month, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks of annual closure. Additionally, coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme is provided for the employee, their spouse, and children, along with membership in the CERN Pension Fund. Family, child, and infant monthly allowances may also be available depending on individual circumstances. A relocation package, including an installation grant and travel expenses, may be offered based on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will be provided to support professional development.
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