Mechanical Engineer for Vacuum Technology

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is at the forefront of scientific research and technological innovation. Established in 1954, CERN has grown to become one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research, employing over 2,500 staff members and hosting thousands of scientists from around the globe. The organization operates in multiple countries, with its headquarters located in Geneva, Switzerland. CERN's mission is to push the boundaries of knowledge and understanding of the universe through groundbreaking research in particle physics, and it is renowned for its Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and other advanced scientific facilities.

Job Overview:
As a Mechanical Engineer in the Experimental Vacuum team at CERN, you will play a crucial role in supporting the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) experiments. Your responsibilities will encompass the design, development, production, and testing of ultra-high vacuum equipment that is essential for the operation of the ATLAS, ALICE, CMS, and LHCb experiments. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in projects from their inception, involving initial engineering concepts, through design, simulation, prototyping, and ultimately to testing, installation, and operational follow-up. You will collaborate with a diverse team of engineers, technicians, and specialists from various disciplines, gaining hands-on experience with complex mechanical systems in a stimulating scientific environment. Your work will directly contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge research in particle physics.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your primary duties will include designing and developing precision mechanical equipment tailored for ultra-high vacuum applications. You will create 3D CAD models and conduct structural, thermal, and modal analyses to validate your designs. You will oversee projects from the design phase through prototyping, manufacturing, assembly, and testing. Additionally, you will plan and execute laboratory tests, which will include leak detection, residual gas analysis, and vacuum performance measurements. Collaboration with CERN workshops, suppliers, and technical teams will be essential to support production and ensure quality control. You will also contribute to the installation, commissioning, and enhancement of vacuum equipment for the LHC experiments, working across engineering disciplines to address technical challenges and deliver reliable solutions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a solid foundation in mechanical engineering and design, with proficiency in mechanical design and CAD software such as CATIA, Autodesk Inventor, or SolidWorks. Familiarity with engineering simulation and analysis tools like ANSYS is also required. Experience in precision mechanics, manufacturing, assembly, or testing is essential, and knowledge of vacuum technology or laboratory environments is highly desirable. While experience with ultra-high vacuum systems, leak detection, or residual gas analysis is advantageous, it is not mandatory to have expertise in all these areas.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate will have a professional background in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Candidates should hold either a Master's degree accompanied by 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 to note that candidates must not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a professional background in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, with varying levels of experience based on educational qualifications. Specifically, candidates with a Master's degree should have between 2 to 6 years of relevant professional experience, while those with a PhD should have no more than 3 years of post-graduation experience. This ensures that applicants have a solid understanding of the field and are equipped to handle the responsibilities of the role effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the diverse and international environment at CERN.

Additional Notes:
This position is fully onsite and involves working in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations. The contract duration is set for 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are 40 hours per week, and the target start date for this position is January 1, 202

• The job reference for this position is TE-VSC-BVO-2026-155-GRAP. Compensation includes a monthly net stipend ranging from 6,372 to 7,004 Swiss Francs, depending on the candidate's degree. Additional benefits include 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage for the employee and their family, and a relocation package based on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training opportunities, including language classes, will also be provided.