Target Materials Engineer

What you'll do

Are you a skilled and highly motivated mechanical engineer? Would you like to contribute to the forefront of nuclear science and to the fight against cancer by supporting the production of the rarest nuclei and radionuclides for medical research?

Join the multidisciplinary target and radioactive beam production team, which applies cutting edge mass separation techniques to produce high purity radioactive ion beams for fundamental science, nuclear physics and medical research. You will operate these systems and lead their further development, enabling the production of innovative target materials and the delivery of radioactive ion beams.

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Your responsibilities

Design, operate, maintain, and improve mechanical systems and target materials for radioactive ion beam production at CERN-MEDICIS and ISOLDE.
Support reliable operation of CERN-MEDICIS isotope separators, mass separators, and associated infrastructure.
Ensure safe, compliant operation of laboratory installations (e.g. glove boxes, fume hoods, hot cells) and handling unsealed radioactive materials according to radiation protection requirements.
Lead the CERN-MEDICIS planning, documentation, monitoring, and optimisation of production activities and workflows.
Support nanomaterials laboratory activities and materials development, particularly in nuclear nanomaterials.
Coordinate key steps of the medical isotope production process, from target preparation to quality control and shipment.

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Your profile

Proven experience with handling unsealed radioactive materials in controlled laboratory environments.
Quality assurance and control, system validation, project planning, risk assessment, and technical reporting.
Materials development (e.g. nanomaterials), including safe handling practices.
Developing and documenting procedures, protocols, and safety measures.
Operating complex scientific equipment (e.g. mass spectrometers).
Relevant experience from research, industry, or other regulated environments is welcome.
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical, Material or Nuclear Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge of metals and alloys: composition, structure, properties, heat treatments.
Knowledge of Radiation Safety.
Operation and support of experimental facilities.
Analysis and optimisation of accelerator performance.
Operation and maintenance of mechanical equipment and systems.
Delivers high quality work on time and fulfils expectations.
Assimilates large quantities of information, identifies key issues and formulates conclusions clearly and concisely.
Works well in groups and readily fits into a team; participates fully and takes an active role in team activities.
Demonstrates a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addresses issues of conflict constructively.
Shares knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaches others to ensure knowledge transfer.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Ideal start date: 01/09/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200090 - Mechanical Engineer

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Team supervision

Medical hazard

Exposure to ionising radiation and classified as category A.

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

Employment conditions

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

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

The SY department oversees the science and technology related to accelerator technical systems, including beam instrumentation, beam transfer, power converters, particles generation and their interaction with matter, and radio frequency systems. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of new hardware and software for CERN’s accelerator complex.

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.