Protocol Officer

What you'll do

As a Protocol Officer, you will be part of the team that coordinates all aspects of the visit and event programmes, which enable high-level visitors to fully appreciate the role and value of CERN in line with the strategic directions of the Directorate and established protocol guidelines. You will be at the forefront of the representational function of the laboratory, working closely with colleagues from across CERN and the scientific collaborations.

Learn more

Your responsibilities

Act as the central contact point for the design and organisation of visit and event programmes, coordinating with external stakeholders and internal services.
Coordinate protocol and logistical arrangements, ensuring compliance with relevant guidelines and timelines, and adapting to last-minute changes as required.
Advise CERN Management and senior colleagues on protocol matters.
Contribute to statistics, performance indicators, and regular reporting for the Protocol Office.
Support the ongoing development of protocol-related policies, guidelines, and procedures.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Demonstrated experience in organising and hosting diplomatic protocol events.
Experience working in teams, preferably in an international environment / international organisation.
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Protocol, Hospitality, Communications or a related field.

Your skills

Diplomatic and ceremonial protocol and etiquette.
Customer service.
Event organisation and management.
Drafting and writing of official documents to high-ranking officials or offices in French and English.
Use of office software packages.
Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Delivers prompt and efficient service taking into account customer needs.
Works well autonomously; takes on activities and tasks without prompting.
Shows courtesy and consideration in dealings with others.
Delivers presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusts style and content to the audience; responds calmly and confidently to questions.
Spoken and written both English and French.

Ideal start date: 01/06/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 5A0020 - Communications/Public Relations /External Relations Professional

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Employment conditions

Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
Work in Radiation Areas.

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. Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
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

Department: SR

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!

Ready To apply?

Be prepared with our resources and tips

All good?

Apply now Allow 15 minutes to complete your online application

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.