Engineer in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)

Engineer in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)

European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)

March 27, 2026May 11, 2026GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading research institution established in 195
  • It is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics and technology. CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world. The organization operates in multiple countries, primarily in Europe, and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Its mission is to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe through innovative research and collaboration.

Job Overview:
The position is within the Mechanical and Materials Engineering (MME) Group at CERN, specifically in the Materials, Metrology and NDT Section. The engineer will be responsible for developing and applying advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques to inspect critical materials and assemblies used in CERN's accelerators and detectors. This role is crucial for ensuring the reliability and safety of CERN's cutting-edge physics projects. The engineer will work closely with an experienced NDT team and will be involved in various inspection activities, including ultrasonic testing, digital radiography, and computed tomography. The position requires a proactive approach to optimize existing techniques and develop new methodologies to enhance inspection capabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The engineer will collaborate with the NDT team to participate in inspection activities that involve ultrasonic testing, digital radiography, and computed tomography. Key responsibilities include optimizing Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) techniques for medium/thin austenitic welds to improve inspection reliability and expand application domains. The engineer will also develop the use of PAUT probes in an immersion setup to enhance inspection flexibility and capabilities. Additionally, the engineer will support the implementation and development of an innovative mobile system for radiography and tomography based on collaborative robots, enabling in-situ inspections of accelerator components in the LHC tunnel and medium-sized components in a bunker. Communication of inspection results to project engineers and documentation of testing protocols and findings are also essential duties.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should have experience in ultrasonic or digital radiographic techniques for NDT, with familiarity in both areas preferred. ISO 9712 certifications are advantageous. Holding a valid certificate by Swiss or French authorities for handling X-ray electric generators for industrial radiography is also a plus. The ideal candidate should possess skills to configure parameters for manual, encoded, and automated PAUT systems, and use software for inspection simulation and result visualization. Familiarity with material science, welding processes, and international NDT standards is required, along with strong technical writing skills for procedures and reports.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a professional background in Materials Science, Welding Engineering, NDT, or a related field. A Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience is required, or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. Candidates must not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
The position requires a professional background in the relevant fields, with specific experience in Non-Destructive Testing techniques. Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of experience post-graduation for those with a Master's degree, or up to 3 years for those with a PhD. Experience with ultrasonic testing and digital radiography is essential, and familiarity with both areas is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language being essential for effective communication within the team and organization.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is 24 months, with a possible extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The position requires full-time commitment with working hours set at 40 hours per week. The role involves working in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations, necessitating a valid driving license. Candidates may be required to work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays as needed by the organization. The job reference is EN-MME-MM-2026-50-GRAP, and the field of work is Material and Surface Science. The benchmark job is 200080 - Material Science/Chemical Engineer/Chemist. Compensation includes a monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs (tax-free), 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, a relocation package, and opportunities for on-the-job and formal training, including language classes.
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