Hazardous Material Decontamination Technical Engineer

What you'll do

You will contribute to hazardous materials decontamination activities and civil engineering works across CERN’s buildings and underground infrastructures. In this role, you support the preparation, coordination and follow-up of interventions, working closely with engineers, technicians, consultants and contractors to ensure safe and compliant operations. You are involved in both planning and on-site activities, combining technical coordination with hands-on follow-up. You will join the Civil Engineering section (CE) within the Site Asset Management (SAM) Group.

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Your responsibilities

Act as the referent for pollutant-related works within the SCE-SAM group, managing the execution of hazardous materials decontamination activities at CERN.
Act as contract manager for hazardous substances decontamination frame contracts, overseeing budget, quality, schedule and safety, and managing financial variations, claims and settlements with contractors.
Serve as the referent of the civil engineering section for works in technical galleries and the Proton Synchrotron complex facility.
Collect, prioritize and process work requests from users, project stakeholders and managers, and contribute to defining technical proposals based on requirements.
Prepare technical specifications and relevant documentation for tenders and quotations.
Plan and manage the execution of works, including coordination of various trades, utilization of service and frame contracts (civil works, painting, roofing, metallic structures, etc.), chairing site and coordination meetings, and monitoring cost, quality, schedule and safety until final acceptance.
Ensure compliance with safety and environmental rules and promote a strong safety culture on work sites.
Report on and document activities on a regular basis.

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Your profile

Proven experience in the execution and/or supervision of hazardous substance decontamination works.
Demonstrated civil engineering experience in the maintenance and operation of buildings or infrastructures.
Experience in coordinating multi-technical trades across projects.
Experience on large-scale sites in industrial and/or scientific environments would be an asset.
Experience in building envelope renovation works would be an asset.
Experience in concrete and steel structure works would be an asset.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of civil engineering or a related field. Certification as a pollutant removal specialist, compliant with Swiss regulations and registered with SUVA and ideally a valid certification in "SS3 Technical Management" in accordance with French regulations and labour code

Your skills

Hazardous materials response operations.
Knowledge of building construction, consolidation and renovation.
Contract management.
Organisation, planning and control.
Cost and schedule management.
Takes initiative beyond regular tasks and makes things happen.
Has a structured and organised approach towards work; is able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
Readily accepts new tasks or work/projects.
Utilises effective negotiation techniques to achieve long-term results acceptable to all parties involved.
Works well in groups and readily fits into a team; participates fully and takes an active role in team activities.
Spoken and written French, with a commitment to learn English.

Ideal start date: 01/10/2026

Contract duration (in months): 36

Grade range: 4

Benchmark job: 301120 - Civil Engineering Technical Engineer

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Medical hazard

Exposure to ionising radiation and classified as category A.
Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.
Exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction.
Exposure to asbestos.
Exposure to lead.

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.
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
Work in Radiation Areas.
Interventions in underground installations.

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum net entry-salary of 7006 Swiss Francs per month, 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

SCE department manages and develops CERN's real estate assets and infrastructures in agreement with CERN's scientific strategy, as well as all the services related to the caretaking and campus operation of the CERN site, including Science Gateway.

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.