Library Cataloguer

What you'll do

Are you interested in becoming a library cataloguer and contributing to the dissemination of cutting-edge scientific research?

The Scientific Information Service plays a central role in ensuring that CERN’s scientific publications are accurately described, indexed, and made discoverable through major digital repositories. Each year, the team curates around 13’000 records, helping to maximise the visibility, accessibility, and long-term preservation of CERN’s research outputs.

The selected candidate will work within the Archives & Library Section, gaining hands-on experience in the curation and cataloguing of scientific documents. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop practical skills in metadata creation, quality control, and information organisation in a large international research environment. You will contribute directly to the quality and reliability of bibliographic data used by researchers worldwide.

You will join a diverse, dynamic, and supportive team of dedicated librarians, where cataloguing responsibilities are shared and collaboration is strongly encouraged. The team works closely together, allowing for continuous learning, peer support, and knowledge exchange in day-to-day activities.

Comprehensive training and guidance will be provided, making this position particularly suitable for candidates at an early stage of their career who are motivated to learn and grow professionally. This is a unique opportunity to develop core library and information science skills while contributing to meaningful, long-term projects in an international and collaborative setting.

Learn more

Your responsibilities

Cataloguing scientific articles, preprints, conference papers, theses, and other document types using JSON and MARC formats.
Reviewing, checking, and updating existing records to ensure the accuracy, consistency, and quality of metadata.
Contributing to the maintenance, update, and documentation of cataloguing and curation procedures.
Analysing existing cataloguing practices and propose improvements in line with international standards.
Cleaning, harmonising, and improving metadata.
Identifying and resolving metadata issues to ensure the correct migration of content.
Contributing to the definition of requirements and providing input to specifications related to the migration.
Taking part in Library service desk shifts to support researchers in their use of Library services.
Participating in Archives re-boxing activities.
Carrying out additional tasks related to Library and Archives operations, in line with organisational needs and ongoing projects.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Experience or strong interest in metadata management.
Completion of in-depth cataloguing coursework as part of academic studies.
Familiarity with, or interest in, digital repositories and library management systems.
Interest in library services and user-facing information support.
Your studies focused on Library & Information Science.

Your skills

Strong knowledge of cataloguing standards and bibliographic formats, such as RDA, MARC21 and DataCite.
Familiarity with structured metadata formats such as JSON and XML is considered an asset.
Good organisational skills and the ability to work accurately while following instructions and documented procedures.
Willingness to contribute to a wide range of Library and Archives activities, including user support and collections-related tasks.
Good communication skills, with the ability to interact clearly and effectively with Library service users.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/09/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend between 5266-5793 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree.
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 and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

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

The OSI department is a transversal service provider aiming to increase efficiency, resilience, openness and sustainability. It provides expert guidance on continuous improvement, risk and crisis management, service and process optimisation, and scientific information management, and coordinates CERN’s open science, preservation, and sustainability efforts.

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.