Mechanical Designer

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 Mechanical and Materials Engineering (MME) Group provides the CERN community with specific engineering solutions combining mechanical design, fabrication, and material sciences.

Are you passionate by mechanics, and are you skilled in computer-aided design? This is an opportunity for you. You will be part of a multidisciplinary project team designing, fabricating and testing a new generation of components for the Future Circular Collider (FCC).

As a Mechanical Technical Engineer in the MME Design Office (EN-MME-MD), you will be in charge of mechanical engineering and design of new complex equipment and mechanical systems for high-energy physics projects and new accelerators and in particular for Superconducting Radio Frequency (SRF) equipment for the FCC.

Structural and thermomechanical studies, design of pressure equipment, cryogenics, ultra-high vacuum technology, sustainable design and manufa

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Your responsibilities

Technical management of design office activities in collaboration with other services within the EN-MME group and with experts and stakeholders CERN wide, in particular for accelerating cavities within the scope of the FCC project.
Analysis of design requirements based on functional specifications or other relevant information.
Execution of design studies of mechanical assemblies, components, tooling, equipment integration and layout.
Creation of detailed 3D models and technical drawings (including specification, detail, manufacturing, assembly, installation, as-built and verification drawings), in consultation with CERN manufacturing and materials experts and in compliance with relevant design and drafting standards.
Preparation of the project documentation according to the Design Office quality assurance procedures.
Preparation of presentations, technical reports, engineering specifications and calculation notes.
Preparation of technical specification and participation in contract negotiations.
Follow-up, in close interaction with other teams and services, of the manufacturing, assembling and installation of mechanical components.
Provide technical oversight and guidance to a team of designers and draftsmen to ensure quality, consistency, and compliance with requirements.
Ensure follow-up of assigned activities using internal administrative tools, including the preparation of estimates, maintenance of job descriptions, and processing of amendments to support timely and accurate invoicing.

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Your profile

Proven experience as a designer in a mechanical design office, performing mechanical dimensioning and using standard mechanical analysis tools (both analytical and numerical).
Proven experience with computer-aided design.
Experience in the production of technical drawings of mechanical components and systems, ideally according to ISO Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) standards for drawing dimensioning and tolerancing.
Experience with the CATIA computer-aided-design software suite would be an asset.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Design and construction of machines: ability to analyse and solve mechanical engineering problems using strength of materials and materials selection principles.
Design and analysis of mechanical structures: with basic knowledge of numerical and analytical calculation methods.
Production of 2D drawings and 3D models: in compliance with relevant standards for drawing dimensioning and tolerancing, in particular ISO Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS).
Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment: knowledge of manufacturing methods and processes such as machining, forming, joining (e.g. welding, brazing).
Configuration and use of information management systems. Ability to effectively use Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools.
Shows a sincere interest in the concerns and perspectives of others
Demonstrates a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supports initiatives for change.
Takes initiative beyond regular tasks and makes things happen.
Identifies, defines and assesses problems, takes action to address them.
Supports and acts in accordance with team decisions; accepts joint responsibility for team successes and shortcomings.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/09/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 4

Benchmark job: 301190 - Mechanical Technical Engineer

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Medical hazard

Shift work.

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.
Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
Work in Radiation Areas.

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.