Mechanical Technician for CMS Detector Upgrades

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With over 2,500 employees and thousands of scientists from around the globe, CERN operates in 23 member states and collaborates with numerous other countries. The organization's mission is to explore the fundamental structure of the universe by using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's work has led to groundbreaking discoveries in particle physics, including the Higgs boson, and continues to push the boundaries of our understanding of the universe.

Job Overview:
As a Mechanical Technician at CERN, you will play a crucial role in the upgrade projects of the CMS (Compact Muon Solenoid) detector. This position encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including workshop-based mechanical work, installation of detector systems, and the design and use of tooling for the removal and installation of CMS sub-detectors. You will also be responsible for radioprotection duties in experimental areas and associated laboratories. Your role will involve close collaboration with the CMS Technical coordination-team" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Coordination team, sub-detector groups, and CMS technical support teams, ensuring that all activities are conducted safely and efficiently. You will be expected to manage a mechanical workshop, provide technical support, and assist in the development and testing of custom tooling for sub-detectors, all while adhering to strict safety protocols and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Take responsibility for safety and radioprotection activities related to sub-detector removal and installation, collaborating with CMS safety officers and sub-detector teams in radioprotection-classified areas.
• Manage a mechanical workshop, advising and assisting CMS sub-detector teams, ensuring the availability and proper use of equipment and tools, and supplying necessary consumables.
• Provide technical support and hands-on assistance to CMS sub-detector project teams in mechanical manufacturing, assembly, structures, and welding.
• Participate in the development, testing, on-site installation, and operation of custom tooling for sub-detectors, working closely with technical teams.
• Operate and maintain hydraulic, mechanical, and electromechanical systems.
• Organize and supervise the storage of sub-detector equipment, ensuring proper inventory and space management.
• Assist the territorial safety officer in supervising work on infrastructure for general safety, utilizing mobile cranes and forklifts as needed.
• Serve as the technical contact for mechanical activities with sub-detector teams and report regularly to Technical Coordination managers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a higher technical diploma or equivalent relevant experience in Mechanics, Manufacturing Methods, or a related field. Additional trainings or certificates such as welding certification, radioprotection formal training, and hydraulic certification are considered advantageous. Applicants should demonstrate a proven ability to manage a mechanical workshop and possess strong organizational skills for coordinating teamwork and on-site technical activities. Proficiency in reading and producing 2D and 3D technical drawings is essential, along with a solid background in the design, construction, and assembly of mechanical components and customized tooling. Experience in the installation of structures and the use of specialized tooling for handling large equipment is also required.

Educational Background:
A higher technical diploma in Mechanics, Manufacturing Methods, or a related field is required. Candidates with equivalent relevant experience may also be considered. Additional certifications in welding, radioprotection, and hydraulics are beneficial and may enhance a candidate's application.

Experience:
Candidates should have experience in radioprotection and the ability to work in classified areas. Proven experience in managing a mechanical workshop, including the use of standard machines and tools, is essential. Strong organizational skills for coordinating teamwork and on-site technical activities are necessary. Experience in reading and producing 2D and 3D technical drawings, as well as a solid background in the design, construction, and assembly of mechanical components, is required. Familiarity with hydraulic, mechanical, and electromechanical systems is considered a plus.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, with a commitment to learn French being highly desirable. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This 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 40 hours per week, and the position is fully onsite. The role involves working in radiation areas, interventions in underground installations, and may require night, weekend, and holiday work as needed. The selected candidate must obtain medical clearance due to occupational health risks associated with the position. The job grade is 3-4, and the reference for this position is EP-CMS-IC-2026-97-LD. CERN offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, paid leave, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances.