Radiation Protection Physicist

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 operates with a diverse workforce of over 2,500 employees and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world. The organization is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering innovation and collaboration among professionals from various fields, including engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative roles. Diversity is a core value at CERN, and it remains central to its mission and continued success, as the organization strives to create an inclusive environment where every contribution is valued and every team member can thrive. CERN's work not only contributes to our understanding of the universe but also drives advancements in technology and engineering, making it a pivotal institution in the global scientific community.

Job Overview:
The position of Radiation Protection Physicist involves leading projects aimed at establishing disposal pathways for radioactive waste in collaboration with the French agency ANDRA and the Cyclife-France processing facility. The successful candidate will be responsible for defining the most appropriate methods and tools to produce waste packages that comply with French specifications. This role requires demonstrating the efficiency and effectiveness of the waste disposal process through the elimination of a pilot waste batch. The candidate will assess all operational aspects of new and existing disposal pathways for very-low-level to short-lived intermediate-level waste, evaluate processing opportunities in accordance with CERN's regulatory framework, and prepare necessary project documentation for approval. The position also entails defining operational documentation for approved pathways, implementing and optimizing pathway workflows within CERN's radioactive waste treatment center, and contributing to the development of CERN's radioactive waste traceability system. Additionally, the role includes team supervision responsibilities, making it essential for the candidate to possess strong leadership and organizational skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Radiation Protection Physicist include: assessing all operational aspects of new and existing disposal pathways for very-low-level to short-lived intermediate-level waste; evaluating processing opportunities at CERN and externally; preparing and submitting project documentation for establishing or upgrading pathways; defining operational documentation for approved pathways; implementing, testing, and optimizing pathway workflows; organizing waste package production, validation, and disposal; developing measurement techniques for characterizing radioactive waste packages; contributing to the development of CERN's radioactive waste traceability system; and contributing to the clearance of radioactive waste from regulatory control. The role also involves supervising a team and ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety requirements throughout all activities related to radioactive waste management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have proven experience in radioactive waste management, including operational and technical activities. They should possess operational experience in radiation areas, including the handling and management of radioactive waste. Experience in coordinating and supervising radioactive waste processing and packaging activities is essential, as is experience in organizing and executing radioactive waste transport, ensuring regulatory compliance, logistics coordination, and documentation. Familiarity with waste disposal to French national repositories, including preparation of waste packages and compliance with acceptance criteria for the Andra CIRES and CSA facilities, is also required. Additionally, candidates should have experience in preparing and managing technical and project documentation, including regulatory submissions and reporting, as well as practical experience in radiation protection implementation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a professional background in Nuclear Engineering or a related field. Candidates should hold 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 that candidates have never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract before applying for this position.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Radiation Protection Physicist position includes a strong background in radioactive waste management, with specific operational experience in radiation areas. Candidates should have a proven track record of coordinating and supervising radioactive waste processing and packaging activities, as well as experience in organizing and executing radioactive waste transport. Familiarity with the regulatory requirements and safety standards associated with radioactive waste management is crucial, along with experience in preparing and managing technical documentation and regulatory submissions.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is proficiency in spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication with the French agency ANDRA and other stakeholders involved in the waste disposal process.

Additional Notes:
This position is fully onsite and involves working in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations. Candidates must possess a valid driving license and be prepared for exposure to asbestos, lead, and the risk of falling from heights during scaffolding assembly and dismantling operations. Due to the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed. The contract duration is 24 months, with a possible extension of up to 36 months. The working hours are 40 hours per week, and the target start date is July 1, 202

• The position offers a monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs (tax-free) depending on the candidate's degree, along with 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.