Junior Automation Controls Engineer

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 thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and exploration. The organization operates numerous facilities and experiments, including the Large Hadron Collider, and is dedicated to advancing our understanding of the universe through cutting-edge research and technology.

Job Overview:
The Junior Automation Controls Engineer position at CERN involves working within a team of control and automation experts to develop applications based on the UNICOS-CPC framework. This framework is utilized across CERN for the development of PLC-based control systems. The role requires collaboration with process and equipment experts to develop, test, commission, and maintain control systems across various domains. The engineer will be responsible for ensuring that the control systems meet operational needs and contribute to the maintenance and further development of tooling and testing infrastructure. Additionally, the position includes evaluating emerging automation technologies to help shape the future of control systems at CERN.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties and responsibilities of the Junior Automation Controls Engineer include:

• Developing, commissioning, and maintaining control applications based on the UNICOS-CPC framework for standardized PLC application generation, specifically supporting Siemens and Schneider PLCs.
• Collaborating closely with process and equipment experts to specify, implement, commission, and support control systems that align with their operational requirements.
• Contributing to the maintenance and enhancement of tooling and testing infrastructure that supports application development.
• Participating in the evaluation of emerging automation technologies and providing insights to help shape the next generation of control systems at CERN.
• Engaging in hands-on development, testing, and troubleshooting of PLC programs using IEC 61131-3 languages.
• Utilizing strong problem-solving skills to address technical challenges and communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a background and/or interest in automation and control, along with basic hands-on experience in developing, testing, or troubleshooting PLC programs using IEC 61131-3 languages. Knowledge of industrial communication protocols is considered an asset, as is initial experience with Python. Strong problem-solving abilities and technical communication skills are essential, along with a basic understanding of control theory and automation principles. Familiarity with Continuous Integration based on GitLab CI is also advantageous. Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and a commitment to learning French is expected.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Automation, Control Engineering, or a related field. Applicants must have graduated within the last two years and should not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract. Those without a university degree or with a PhD are not eligible for this position.

Experience:
Candidates should have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in the relevant fields of Automation or Control Engineering. This experience should ideally include practical exposure to PLC programming and automation technologies.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. While not required, knowledge of French is considered beneficial and candidates are expected to commit to learning the language during their tenure at CERN.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers a hybrid flexibility model. The target start date for this position is January 1, 202

• A valid driving license is required for this role. The job reference number is BE-ICS-ACS-2026-247-GRAE. The position falls under the field of Data Science, AI & Analytics, with a benchmark job classification of 200020 - Computing Engineer. Compensation includes a monthly net stipend ranging from 5266 to 5793 Swiss Francs, depending on the candidate's degree, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and various allowances based on individual circumstances. A relocation package is also available.