AI Solutions Engineer

What you'll do

You will work at the forefront of applying artificial intelligence to accelerator control systems and operational workflows at CERN. Working collaboratively across the BE-CSS group and the broader Accelerator and Technology Sector (ATS), you will design, develop, and deploy practical AI solutions — from LLM-based knowledge assistants to agentic AI workflows.

A defining aspect of your role will be contributing to the newly established ATS AI Core Team, where you will provide expertise in LLM and agentic AI systems, secure knowledge connectors, and safe agent deployment patterns.

Your work will span hands-on software development, cross-group collaboration, and technical leadership — an excellent opportunity to work alongside engineers and scientists from across CERN and to shape the organisation’s AI capabilities in a meaningful and lasting way.

Your responsibilities

Contribute to the AI-driven evolution of the BE-CSS group’s software product portfolio, identifying and implementing opportunities to embed AI capabilities across group applications.
Design and develop LLM-based solutions, including a first-line support chatbot backed by retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) pipelines, vector databases, and secure knowledge connectors, in close collaboration with the CERN IT department providing the underlying MLOPs substrate.
Join the ATS AI Core Team and take a major role in the rollout of LLM/agentic AI and knowledge systems, contributing to reusable patterns, evaluation frameworks, and safe agent deployment practices across the sector.
Collaborate with engineers, domain experts, and scientists from across CERN —including CERN IT, BE-CSS colleagues, and other ATS groups — to align AI solutions with operational needs and organisational standards.
Contribute to other AI-related initiatives in the BE-CSS group and across the ATS sector, sharing expertise and adapting to emerging priorities in the rapidly evolving field of applied AI.
Help define and deliver the central AI infrastructure needed across ATS, contributing to shared tooling, reference architectures, MLOps practices, and evaluation frameworks that enable groups to adopt AI solutions safely and efficiently.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Solid experience in Python software development, including the design and delivery of production-ready applications in a collaborative engineering environment.
Practical knowledge of LLM frameworks (such as LangChain or LlamaIndex) and hands-on experience building retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) pipelines and working with vector databases, chunking and embedding techniques.
Familiarity with agentic AI orchestration approaches and the Model Context Protocol (MCP), or a strong motivation and demonstrated ability to develop this expertise rapidly.
Understanding of evaluation and safety frameworks for LLM-based systems, including techniques for assessing reliability, output quality, and responsible deployment.
Experience with MLOps practices and CI/CD workflows; ability to write clear technical documentation and communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences.
Ability to build effective working relationships and communicate clearly with colleagues from diverse scientific and engineering backgrounds, including non-specialist audiences.
Curiosity about the application of AI in complex scientific and operational environments, with an openness to learning the accelerator domain context through direct engagement with its challenges.
Master's Degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Computer Science or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: notably Python.
Architecture and design of ICT systems.
Identification and selection of relevant emerging ICT technologies.
Development, validation and deployment of machine learning and AI solutions.
Design and implementation of data pipelines and knowledge retrieval systems.
Has a structured and organised approach towards work; is able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
Works conscientiously and reliably; delivers on promises.
Adopts a pragmatic approach; understands the value of adopting generic rather than gold -plated' technical solutions.
Builds and maintains constructive and effective work relationships.
Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/09/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200020 - Computing Engineer

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum net entry-salary of 9236 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

The BE department is at the heart of CERN's accelerator complex.

Its mission is to lead the development, construction, and operation of advanced particle accelerators, and to provide cutting-edge technology solutions that enable new discoveries in fundamental physics. Committed to promoting a culture of excellence, creativity and collaboration, individuals from diverse backgrounds contribute to the advancement of science and technology, as well as engaging in scientific education, outreach, and broader knowledge and technology transfer initiatives.

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.