Procurement and Contracts Officer

What you'll do

As part of the Industry, Procurement and Knowledge Transfer (IPT) Department, you will join the Procurement and Industrial Services Group (PI), which is responsible for procuring all supplies and services for the Organization, ensuring that the specified and contractual technical, delivery and performance requirements are met at the lowest possible overall cost whilst achieving balanced industrial returns for CERN Member States and respecting CERN’s Procurement Rules. The Group monitors and reports procurement activities and statistics to CERN Management and Member State representatives.

Your responsibilities

Advise and support the Organization in identifying procurement strategies, ensuring cost efficiency and quality.
Carry out research to identify and participate in the qualification of potential suppliers.
Prepare price enquiries, market surveys and invitations to tender in accordance with the Organization's Procurement Rules and on an international basis.
Analyse offers, prepare proposals for adjudications and submit these to CERN’s Management.
Ensure the preparation, negotiation and follow-up of numerous orders and contracts.
Contribute to the advancement of CERN's procurement techniques and tools, influencing their modernisation and optimisation.
Foster and sustain a wide-ranging network of relationships across diverse levels, both internally and externally, while actively representing CERN in global business events.

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Your profile

Demonstrated experience in procurement of technical supplies or services with a strong understanding of source-to-contract processes and procurement systems.
Experience in setting category or procurement project-level strategies.
Experience in executing plans in a matrix-driven decision-making process.
Experience in collaborating with diverse teams and senior stakeholders.
Experience in public procurement and contract management is desired.
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Economics, Purchasing, Law, Engineering, or a related field.

Your skills

Definition of tendering and contracting strategies.
Negotiating with external suppliers and service contract providers.
Drafting of commercial documents for a supply or a service contract.
Contract management: managing the commercial aspects of contracts, including the critical examination of offers and the handling of claims and disputes.
Reviewing technical documents for a supply or a service contract.
Delivers high quality work on time and fulfils expectations.
Takes initiative beyond regular tasks and makes things happen.
Utilises effective negotiation techniques to achieve long-term results acceptable to all parties involved.
Identifies, defines and assesses problems, takes action to address them.
Demonstrates a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supports initiatives for change.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 5A0090 - Procurement Professional

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, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot and Croatian nationals, 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 IPT department supports CERN’s mission through procurement and knowledge transfer, ensuring effective partnerships and maximising CERN's impact on society.

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.