Technical Engineer for Water Treatment Systems

What you'll do

The Engineering Department (EN) pushes forward the limits of technology so that physicists can carry out their research. Within the EN department, the Cooling and Ventilation (EN-CV) group is responsible for the design, the construction, the operation and the maintenance of the cooling and ventilation plants for large energy physics accelerators, experiments and technical facilities. The EN-CV group pursues sustainable cooling and ventilation systems enhancing energy savings and recovery.

You will join the Methods, Store and Electrical Section (CES), which oversees the operation and maintenance of water treatment systems, as well as the development of maintenance procedures, implementation of computerised maintenance management (CMMS), documentation management, spare parts store management and electrical works.

Are you a qualified and proactive and specialised in industrial water treatment systems, ready to contribute to a unique working environment at the heart of one of the world’s most complex scientific installations?

In this role, you will contribute to the analysis, optimisation and development of water treatment systems used for cooling and ventilation installations. You will ensure system performance, reliability and compliance with environmental and safety requirements, while supporting operation and maintenance activities.

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Your responsibilities

Study, design and validate the performance of new water treatment installations or upgrade of existing water treatment installations.
Contribute to the water treatment contract management, produce technical specification and all the documents for the tendering procedure for the renewal of the contract.
Lead technical investigations and root cause analysis for complex or recurring issues affecting water treatment systems.
Plan, coordinate and oversee preventive and corrective maintenance activities (by using the CMMS system), defining appropriate strategies and ensuring alignment with operational needs.
Monitor system performance and follow up on activities, ensuring reporting on progress, schedule and costs.
Technically coordinate contractors’ activities for maintenance and installation work, ensuring compliance with contractual clauses, technical standards and safety requirements.
Ensure that technical documentation is complete, structured and up to date, in line with quality standards.

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Your profile

Demonstrated experience in the operation, maintenance and optimisation of water treatment systems, including demineralised water production.
Proven experience in water treatment of cooling circuits (cooling towers or closed circuits), including water chemistry aspects.
Experience in the technical coordination of external contractors and activities.
Experience in the use of CMMS tools.
Experience in low-voltage electrical systems.
Experience in analysing and troubleshooting technical systems would be an asset.
Experience in contract management, would be an asset.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Environmental Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Operation and maintenance of cooling water systems and networks.
Operation and maintenance of electrical circuits and networks.
Design and construction of cooling water systems.
Operation and maintenance of HVAC plants and networks.
Work Technical supervision of contractor.
Work site supervision.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Ideal start date: 01/10/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 4

Benchmark job: 301180 - Material Science/Chemical Technical Engineer

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Medical hazard

Exposure to asbestos.
Exposure to lead.
Shift work.
Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.
Exposure to risk of falling from heights during scaffolding assembly and dismantling operations.

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.
Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
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

The EN department provides CERN with the engineering competences, infrastructure systems, and technical coordination required for the design, fabrication, installation, operation, maintenance, and dismantling of the accelerator complex and experimental facilities. Its mission is to deliver and sustain robust infrastructure systems, advanced engineering solutions, and technical coordination.

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.