Laboratory Technician

What you'll do

Within the environmental protection group, attached to the laboratory, you will carry out sampling and physicochemical analyses to assess the quality of CERN’s water discharges in compliance with the regulations of the two host countries.

Your responsibilities

Collect environmental samples and carry out physicochemical measurement campaigns in effluents and river water, from CERN sites and surrounding natural environments.
Prepare samples for physicochemical analysis.
Conduct physicochemical analyses such as Ionic chromatography, Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), High Pressure Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLCMS-MS), and photometry.
Supervise the installation, maintenance and qualification of laboratory analysis and quality control (QC) equipment.
Manage laboratory stocks and inventory.
Draft technical documents and reports, including tables of analytical results.
Ensure the accuracy and reliability of data and analytical reports to meet the needs of internal stakeholders.
Conduct on-site investigations in case of environmental events.
Follow the trends of the physicochemical continuous monitoring of CERN’s effluents.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Demonstrated technical expertise in physicochemical analyses using laboratory instruments such as ICP-MS, HPLC-MS/MS, IC, AOX, TOC-TN, FTIR, and Photometry.
Knowledge of laboratory quality management systems.
Experience in the follow-up and coordination of laboratory instrumentation maintenance.
Knowledge of technical norms and environmental regulations related to sampling, measurement, and analysis would be an asset.
Field experience, including sampling campaigns and in-situ measurements would be an asset.
Knowledge of wastewater treatment and sanitation infrastructure, including operational processes and environmental constraints, or water treatment technologies (physical, chemical, and biological treatment methods) would be an asset.
Higher technical diploma or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Analytical Chemistry or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge and application of instrumentation and measurement techniques, troubleshooting and resolving issues related to laboratory instrumentation.
Metrics and analytics, development, validation, and optimisation of analytical methods. Proficient use of MS Office and laboratory data management systems (e.g. LIMS).
Stakeholder relationship management, and the ability to coordinate exchanges with various stakeholders.
Quality management - iSO17025.
Delivers high quality work on time and fulfils expectations.
Adopts a pragmatic approach; understands the value of adopting generic rather than gold -plated' technical solutions.
Keeps up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbs new information.
Contributes to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addresses issues.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Ideal start date: 01/06/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 3

Benchmark job: 300080 - Material Science/Chemical Technician

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Medical hazard

Exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction.

Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Employment conditions

A valid driving licence.
Residence in the immediate vicinity of the Organisation's installations.
Stand-by duty, and work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
Interventions in underground installations.
Work in Radiation Areas.

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. 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

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!

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.