Administrative Assistant

What you'll do

The CERN Staff Association (SA) is committed to promoting the welfare of CERN personnel through a wide range of services and initiatives. Among these is the Jardin des Particules (JDP), an early childhood education and childcare facility located at CERN, welcoming children from 4 months to 10 years old.

We are looking for an experienced Administrative Assistant to play a central role in the day-to-day administration and management of the Jardin des Particules. This is a varied position combining human resources administration, financial management and operational coordination within a Swiss employment framework.

If you enjoy taking ownership of diverse administrative responsibilities, have solid knowledge of Swiss employment administration and thrive in an international environment, then join the CERN Staff Association and contribute to an essential service for the CERN community.

Learn more

Your responsibilities

Managing the full administrative lifecycle of JDP employees, including recruitment administration, employment contracts, amendments, onboarding and departures.
Coordinating payroll administration with the external fiduciary and ensuring the accuracy of salary-related information.
Managing personnel administration in accordance with Swiss employment legislation, including social insurance, pension schemes (LPP), employment contracts, leave management and other statutory obligations.
Acting as the main administrative contact for JDP staff on employment-related matters.
Monitoring the JDP budget, processing invoices and payments, maintaining accounting records and supporting financial reporting.
Performing financial monitoring and analysis to support sound budget management.
Liaising with external partners including the fiduciary, insurance providers and public authorities when required.
Preparing communication and promotional material for the Jardin des Particules and supporting its visibility within the CERN community.
Contributing to the continuous improvement of administrative and financial processes.
In addition, you will provide occasional support to the Staff Association Secretariat by welcoming visitors and responding to general enquiries.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Demonstrated experience managing employment administration under Swiss labour legislation, including employment contracts, payroll administration, social insurance, occupational pension schemes (LPP) and other statutory employment obligations.
Proven experience in administrative, HR and financial administration within a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) in Switzerland.
Experience working with external fiduciaries or payroll providers would be an asset.
Experience in an international or multicultural environment would be an advantage.
Technical Certificate or General Secondary Education or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Administration, Human Resources, Accounting, Finance or a related field.

Your skills

Secretarial work.
Use of office software packages.
Knowledge of accounting software, such as Crésus, would be an asset.
Accounting, budget monitoring and financial control.
Administration of employment contracts and personnel records under Swiss employment legislation.
Gains trust and collaboration from others.
Ensures that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
Works conscientiously and reliably; delivers on promises.
Relates well to all people regardless of category/level within the Organization.
Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Spoken and written both English and French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 3

Benchmark job: 5B0010 - Process/Services Assistant

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum net entry-salary of 5929 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, Croatian and Turkish 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 HR department attracts and engages a diverse and talented community at CERN, supporting their growth and collaboration through tailored HR services and policies.

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.