Electrical Engineer for Einstein Telescope

What you'll do

The Electrical Group of the Engineering Department (EN-EL) is responsible of operation, maintenance and works on the CERN electrical network. Within the Electrical Group, you will join the Electrical Project Management Section (EPM), which is responsible for the management of projects related to the CERN’s electrical transmission and distribution network and to the powering of future scientific infrastructures.

The Einstein Telescope (ET) is a proposed underground facility for a third-generation gravitational-wave observatory. Building on the success of Advanced Virgo and Advanced LIGO, which detected merging black holes and neutron stars, ET will have a much higher sensitivity. This will be achieved with 10km interferometer arms (up from Virgo’s 3km), a depth of 150-300 meters underground, and new technologies like cryogenic cooling of optics around 15K, quantum techniques to reduce light fluctuations, and advanced noise-reduction systems. ET will enable exploration of the Universe’s gravitational waves back to the cosmological dark ages, offering insights into fundamental physics and cosmology.

The ET project is in the ‘study’ phase at present and will transition into an execution project after its approval.

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Your responsibilities

Defining the electrical requirements with users and producing the Electrical Load List.
Preparation of conceptual design specifications and reports.
Develop and use models of the HV, MV and LV networks of the telescope using commercially available software applications to perform various electrical system studies such as load flow, short circuit, transient stability, harmonic analysis etc.
Preparing the transmission and distribution single line diagrams, failure mode scenarios and backup power supply solutions for both surface and underground facilities.
Contribute to the study for a potential deployment of energy storage, grid control, FACTS, and DC grids.
Providing the inputs required and supporting the grid connection preparation.
Perform surveys/ carry out measurements on CERN existing electrical systems (surface and underground) and other similar telescope installations globally as appropriate, to retrieve the information useful for the studies.
Support the preparation of bill of quantities and cost estimate (CAPEX and OPEX).
Define and review the requirements of the electrical systems and co-ordinate with the other Study team members for 3D modelling of the electrical infrastructure for its integration into the overall model and the civil works.
Contribute to the (technological) survey of new technologies in the electrical distribution domain that could be deployed on the project.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Experience in developing and the use of the models for High Voltage, Medium Voltage, and Low Voltage networks.
Experience in the conceptual design of the electrical installations in the industrial facilities.
Previous professional experience in the domain of the electrical network studies is considered an asset.
Experience in the cost estimation processing would be an advantage.
Your studies focused on Electrical Engineering (or a related field).

Your skills

Know-how/ appreciation of the Clean Room application would be an advantage.
Knowledge of designing the underground installations would be considered as an asset.
Innovative problem-solving attitude.
Mindset to manoeuvre through and carry out multiple design iterations to support the early-stage development of the project.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Employment conditions

A valid driving licence.
Work in Radiation Areas.
Interventions in underground installations.
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend of either 6372 or 7004 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree and years of post-graduation 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 and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

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.
By the application deadline, you have a master’s degree with 2 to 6 years of professional experience since graduation or a PhD with a maximum of 3 years of professional experience since graduation. You are not eligible with only a bachelor’s degree.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
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)
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
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.