Legal Advisor

What you'll do

Are you keen to work as a lawyer of one of the world’s leading scientific Intergovernmental Organisations? Come and join a unique environment whose core value is excellence, and whose defining characteristic is teamwork. CERN, take part!

You will provide legal support to the HSE Department, which, reporting to the Director-General, is responsible for the establishment, and interpretation of the Organisation’s regulatory framework in matters of Safety, radiation protection, occupational medicine, fire and rescue services and monitoring of – and reporting on the environmental and radiological impact of the Organisation’s activities.

Your responsibilities

Draft and review the Organisation's rules and policies in matters of health and safety and environmental protection.
Advice and follow up on legal matters related to subjects falling within the mandate of the HSE Department and on strategic orientations of Safety at CERN.
Provide legal support for HSE initiatives.
Provide legal support to internal and external Safety committees, including those established following agreements with Host-States.
Provide legal support in HSE matters to stakeholders.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Demonstrated knowledge and experience in legal and legal-drafting work, preferably acquired in an international environment.
Experience with drafting of internal regulations represents an advantage.
Experience with interpretation or implementation of EU and international regulations, in matters of health and safety or environmental protection (this includes the ability to understand and interpret regulations and standards in technical domains) would be an advantage.
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Law or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge of Environmental Law.
Knowledge of Labour Law (including Health and Safety legislation).
Knowledge of EU regulations.
Drafting and writing of legal documents.
Has a structured and organised approach towards work; is able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
Expresses opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeps to the point.
Demonstrates an openness to new ideas and situations.
Works well autonomously; takes on activities and tasks without prompting.
Understands when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; includes others accordingly and shares information.
Spoken and written both English and French.

Ideal start date: 01/06/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 5A0070 - Legal Adviser

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum entry-salary of 9236 Swiss Francs per month (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Let's get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State.
You have relevant qualifications and professional experience.
If you have previously held a Staff contract at CERN, you will not be eligible for these positions.
Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

Your CV (English or French)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The HSE Department drives CERN’s Safety Policy, promoting a corporate and preventive Safety culture across the Organization.

It provides expertise and support in radiological and conventional safety as well as environmental protection. The Department also manages emergency services, including the CERN Fire and Rescue Service and Medical Service.

Overview of CERN

Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

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Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
How big would the team be?

The size of the team you'll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
What is the working language at CERN?

The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
What support does CERN provide for relocation?

CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the “Salary, Benefits and Support“ page.
Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
What would my salary be?

Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.