Mechanical Technician – Superconducting Magnets

What you'll do

As a mechanical technician, you will support the development, manufacturing and maintenance of key components used in superconducting accelerator magnets, including busbars and interconnections for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), as well as preparations for the upcoming upgrade activities for the LHC (Long shutdown 3). You will work hands-on in a workshop environment, contributing to production, integration and refurbishment activities for ongoing accelerator upgrades.

Your responsibilities

Contribute to the construction and assembly of powering busbars for superconducting accelerator magnets, including brazing of components and installation of insulating protections.
Participate in the development and construction of tooling and mock-ups for activities related to busbars and magnet interconnections.
Procure components and tooling, both from the central warehouse and from external suppliers, following internal procurement processes.
Contribute to the preparation of consolidation campaigns in the LHC tunnel, including drafting/updating procedures (with support from the section’s quality team) and managing the inventory of tooling and components.
Intervene in the accelerator tunnel with colleagues for activities related to busbar splices and interconnections of superconducting magnets, in line with safety and quality requirements.

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Your profile

Hands-on experience in mechanical manufacturing.
Experience in mechanical assembly and conventional (non-CNC) machining (milling/turning); ability to read detailed 2D technical drawings.
Experience developing/adapting custom tooling and mock-ups for first-of-a-kind work, while implementing procedures to ensure high QA/QC standards.
Experience with procurement follow-up and inventory management (components, tooling, spare parts).
Asset: practical experience with superconducting magnets or similar high-precision electromechanical equipment.
Asset: 3D CAD (CATIA) and mechanical drafting; ability to produce/modify 2D drawings.
Asset: hands-on experience in brazing and / or soldering.
Asset: producing, managing and updating technical documentation.
Technical certificate or general secondary education or equivalent relevant experience in the field of mechanical engineering, electromechanical engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge and application of joining techniques: brazing and soldering.
Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment.
Construction, test and installation of superconducting magnets and systems.
Knowledge and application of manufacturing methods and work preparation: including inventory and procurement follow-up of components and tooling, QA/QC and related procedures.
Manufacturing of mechanical parts, using conventional machining tools.
Works well in groups and readily fits into a team; participates fully and takes an active role in team activities.
Takes responsibility for own actions and decisions.
Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Listens actively to others and lets others speak.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Ideal start date: 05/01/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 3

Benchmark job: 300090 - Mechanical Technician

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Employment conditions

A valid driving licence.
Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum entry-salary of 5929 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 TE department specializes in maintaining world-class expertise in accelerator technologies, supporting R&D, and managing technical facilities to advance CERN's technological capabilities.

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.