Junior Officer for Host State Relations

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 a diverse workforce of over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world. The organization operates in multiple countries and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.

Job Overview:
The Junior Officer for Host State Relations position is designed for recent graduates who are eager to gain professional experience within an international organization. This role is situated within the Host State Relations service, which is part of the Stakeholder Engagement group in the Stakeholder Relations sector at CERN. The mission of this service is to ensure effective collaboration with Swiss and French authorities to support CERN's operations. The successful candidate will be involved in various tasks that contribute to the organization's diplomatic and administrative functions, including research, documentation, and stakeholder communication. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with international collaboration and diplomacy, making it ideal for individuals passionate about these fields.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a Junior Officer for Host State Relations, your responsibilities will include conducting research and providing analyses on administrative and diplomatic issues, collecting documentation, and drafting notes and presentations for meetings with Host State authorities. You will follow up on meetings and processes by writing minutes, letters, and emails, including those of a confidential nature. Additionally, you will analyze requests and questions from local stakeholders and issues raised by CERN Departments and staff members related to Host States procedures, drafting positions and answers accordingly. You will prepare notes verbales, letters, and documents relevant to the Host State authorities in the context of processes, events, and visits. Furthermore, you will ensure the maintenance of the institutional memory of the Service by monitoring files and ensuring proper archiving of information.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in International Affairs, Legal Affairs, or a related field. The highest educational qualification required is either a Bachelor's or Master's degree. Applicants must not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract, and those without a university degree or with a PhD are not eligible for this position. Essential skills include a rigorous, tactful, and proactive approach, an analytical mind, excellent interpersonal communication and presentation skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team within a large international organization. A fast learner who can grasp new concepts rapidly and effectively is also essential, along with excellent writing skills in French and a good knowledge of English.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's or Master's degree in International Affairs, Legal Affairs, or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of international relations and the legal frameworks that govern them, which will be essential in performing the duties of the Junior Officer role effectively.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation. This experience should ideally be in fields related to international affairs, legal affairs, or stakeholder relations. The role is designed for recent graduates, making it an excellent opportunity for those looking to start their careers in international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, with excellent writing skills required. A good knowledge of English is also necessary, as both languages will be used in communication and documentation. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required for this position.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with a possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The job is fully onsite at CERN in Geneva. The target start date for the position is September 1, 202

• The job reference is SR-SE-HSR-2026-154-GRAE. The position falls under the field of International Relations and is benchmarked as a Communications/Public Relations/External Relations Professional. Compensation includes a monthly stipend between 5,266 and 5,793 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.