Mechanical Hydraulic Technician for the CMS Experiment

What you'll do

You will join the CERN Experimental Physics Department (EP) to work in the CMS Experiment Systems Group (CMX) Safety, Coordination and Integration (SCI) section.

The CMS Experiment is one of the four large experiments of the LHC at CERN. The CMS detector weighs around 14000 tonnes and is divided into large moveable segments, weighing up to 2000 tonnes, that facilitate maintenance and upgrade of the equipment. Within the EP-CMX-SCI section, you will be part of the CMS Technical Coordination team, including technicians, engineers and physicists who are in charge of all technical aspects related to the operation, maintenance, and upgrade of the CMS detector. This includes configuration changes and installation of new detectors.

Your responsibilities

Participate actively in the assembly/disassembly of the detector, including opening and closing of the large CMS components using screw jacks, hydraulic jacks, strand-jack system and high-pressure air-pads, and pneumatic locking systems.
Maintain the dedicated heavy lifting and hydraulic tools, improve them, design, install and commission new ones.
Supervise and organize the various on-site activities of the collaboration technicians and/or external suppliers.
Support the operation and maintenance of the mechanical workshop at the CMS site, acting as deputy to the workshop supervisor.
Interpret 2D/3D designs, construct tooling and manufacture mechanical pieces accordingly.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Demonstrated experience in operating and maintaining heavy lifting hydraulic, mechanical and pneumatic systems
Demonstrated experience in performing mechanical site work
Initial experience in running a mechanical workshop (use of tools and machines, maintenance of equipment, safety, validation of procedures, work scheduling)
Initial experience in supervision of technical teams
Higher technical diploma or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Hydraulics, Mechanics, Electro-Mechanics or a related field. Trainings/certificates considered a plus: High pressure training and certificate, Welding certificate, Scaffolding certificate

Your skills

Operation and maintenance of lifting and handling equipment.
Definition and installation of transport systems.
Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment.
Manufacturing of mechanical parts.
Operation and maintenance of electromechanical equipment and systems.
Having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind; Delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
Building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships; Expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
Actively participating in the implementation of new processes and technologies; Working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting; Taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Ideal start date: 01/09/2025

Contract duration: 60 month contract

Grade range: 3

Benchmark job: 300090 - Mechanical Technician

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Medical hazard

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.
Work in Radiation Areas.
Interventions in underground installations.
Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum entry-salary of 5850 Swiss Francs per month (tax free), 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.
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 EP department conducts research in experimental particle physics and serves as a key reference center for the European physics community, contributing to the education and training of young scientists.

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.