Geneva, Switzerland What you'll do
You will assist waste producers from the LHC experiments and participate in the operation of the CERN radioactive waste treatment centre, gaining experience in assessing the technical and financial impacts of end-of-life management for the engineering of radioactive components. This involves developing the ability to advise waste producers on the safe, effective, and efficient handling, packaging, interim storage, and transport of a wide range of spent experimental equipment, from extremely low-activated items to intermediate-level waste.
Your responsibilities
- Advise radioactive waste producers.
- Assist with the reception of radioactive waste items.
- Measure the physical properties of radioactive waste items affecting their safe handling, interim storage, and elimination.
- Ensure traceability of radioactive waste characteristics and of the actions performed on them (measurements, transport, processing).
- Define appropriate interim storage conditions and processing pathways.
- Monitor and control radiation protection and the technical operability of radioactive waste interim storage and processing facilities.
- Contribute to the radiological classification of waste packages.
- Verify compliance of final waste packages with applicable specifications.
- Draft engineering and technical documentation in English and/or French.
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Your profile
- Educational background in health physics or radiation protection, with a solid understanding of radiation protection principles and applicable regulatory frameworks.
- Hands-on experience using radiation detection and measurement instruments, acquired through academic laboratories, internships, or early professional assignments, including detection and quantification of ionising radiation.
- Introductory experience with quality management systems (QMS), including basic control, verification, traceability, and documentation practices.
- Foundational knowledge of operational process analysis, including consideration of performance, risk, and safety aspects, developed through academic projects or initial professional experience.
- Exposure to radioactive waste management and/or decommissioning projects would be considered an asset.
- Your studies focused on Radiation Protection.
Your skills
- Strong foundation in health physics, with particular emphasis on radiation protection principles and regulatory compliance.
- Solid knowledge of radiation detection and measurement techniques, including interpretation of measurement results.
- Good understanding of quality assurance principles and tools, including documentation control, traceability, and basic verification processes.
- Understanding of engineering process performance and safety assessment methodologies, with attention to risk analysis and operational safety.
- Ability to prepare clear and structured technical documentation, including procedures, reports, and technical notes.
- Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language.
Medical hazard
- Exposure to asbestos.
- Exposure to lead.
- Exposure to risk of falling from heights during scaffolding assembly and dismantling operations.
Employment conditions
- A valid driving licence.
- Interventions in underground installations.
- Work in Radiation Areas.
Global Benefits at CERN
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.
- By the application deadline, you have a maximum of 2 years of professional experience since graduation in the respective field and your highest educational qualification is either a bachelor’s or master’s degree. You must have a university degree and can’t hold a PhD.
- You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
- 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)
- A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
- Any document you consider relevant to your application
Your CERNDepartment
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
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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.
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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.