Cooling and Ventilation Engineer

What you'll do

Within the CERN Engineering department (EN), the Cooling and Ventilation (EN-CV) group is responsible for the design, the building, the operation, and the maintenance of the cooling and ventilation plants for large energy physics accelerators, experiments, and technical facilities. The EN-CV group pursues sustainable cooling and ventilation systems enhancing energy saving and recovery.

You will join the Project Section (EN-CV-PJ), which is in charge of coordination and management of cooling and ventilation projects for installation of new systems, upgrade of existing systems and consolidation of old systems both for CERN accelerators and experiments.

The section is responsible for entire project cycles, starting from collecting user requirements to the final commissioning of cooling and ventilation systems.

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Your responsibilities

Pursue and define user requirements from main stakeholders.
Perform feasibility studies and detailed designs of industrial cooling and HVAC systems, including sizing and cost estimates for the proposed solutions.
Write up technical reports and notes.
Draw up technical specifications and all relevant documents, follow up the tendering process up to the adjudication of future contracts.
Follow up and regularly report on the project's progress.
Ensure technical coordination and supervision of contractors.
Monitor cost and schedule up to the commissioning and formal acceptance of the systems.
Support operation teams in the troubleshooting and process improvement of existing plants.
Actively contribute to the development and improvement of the internal procedures, technical prescriptions, and standardisation of the technical solutions.

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Your profile

Demonstrated experience in the design, construction and testing of industrial cooling systems including experience in selecting related equipment and instrumentation.
Initial experience in the design, construction and testing of HVAC installations and their related hydraulic components.
Proven experience in contract management.
Demonstrated experience in project management.
Master's Degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
Certification in project management (PMP/PMI) would be an asset.

Your skills

Design and construction of cooling water systems: (cooling tower, demineralised and chilled water) and networks including test of plants and their associated equipment.
Design and construction of HVAC plants and networks: including test of plant and associated equipment.
Water cooling process design and analysis: as well as HVAC process.
Project management.
Contract management.
Has a structured and organised approach towards work; is able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
Ensures that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
Readily absorbs new techniques and working practices; proposes new or improved ways of working.
Works well autonomously; takes on activities and tasks without prompting.
Understands when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; includes others accordingly and shares information.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/11/2026

Contract duration (in months): 48

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200090 - Mechanical Engineer

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Medical hazard

Shift work.
Exposure to risk of falling from heights during scaffolding assembly and dismantling operations.
Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.

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

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 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.