Mechanical Engineer for the CMS High-Granularity Calorimeter

What you'll do

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will contribute to the development, procurement, assembly, testing and installation of innovative mechanical structures for the High Granularity Calorimeter (HGCAL) of the Compact Muon Solenoid experiment, working with advanced materials and challenging structural and thermal requirements.

You will help oversee the surface assembly and testing of the 250-tonne detector, including its CO? cooling, dry gas, cabling and fibre services, as well as its installation and commissioning 100 metres underground. Working in a multinational, multidisciplinary team, you will apply your expertise in structural and thermal calculations, finite element analysis and 3D CAD.

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Your responsibilities

Coordinate a team of technicians in assembling and testing the steel structures of HGCAL, comprising more than 200 tonnes of steel plates per endcap.
Provide engineering support for all activities at CERN related to the large-scale active detector components, known as “cassettes” (30–60-degree segments of circular structures with diameters of up to 5 m). This will include the cold testing of “electromagnetic cassettes” and their subsequent stacking with lead plates to form the complete electromagnetic endcaps.
Integrate the hadronic cassettes into the steel structures and provide support for their testing.
Integrate the electromagnetic (30 tonnes) and hadronic (200 tonnes) sections, including their cabling and piping, and support subsequent large-scale testing on the surface.
Help oversee the lowering of the HGCAL endcaps into the CMS cavern and their connection to CMS, including the connection and testing of services.

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Your profile

Strong track record in planning and coordinating the handling, assembling and testing of large mechanical structures.
Demonstrated experience in performing thermal and structural calculations of complex mechanical structures using finite element analysis.
Demonstrated experience in developing mechanical assemblies using 3D CAD.
Ability to work successfully and efficiently within multinational, multicultural teams of engineers, scientists and technicians would be an advantage.
Master's Degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment: Knowledge of usual manufacturing methods (milling, turning, etc.), assembly methods (bolted, welding, etc.).
Knowledge and application of mechanical measurement techniques: including quality control methods.
Assembly and integration of detectors: capability to develop and validate manufacturing and installation methods.
Production of 2D drawings and 3D models: proficiency in Catia V5 or equivalent 3D modelling software, good knowledge of drawing annotations.
Knowledge and application of numerical modelling applied to mechanics.
Proficiency in ANSYS would be a strong asset.
Basic understanding of process engineering systems (i.e. cooling plants) would be an asset.
Works well autonomously; takes on activities and tasks without prompting.
Adopts a pragmatic approach; understands the value of adopting generic rather than gold -plated' technical solutions.
Works well in groups and readily fits into a team; participates fully and takes an active role in team activities.
Delivers presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusts style and content to the audience; responds calmly and confidently to questions.
Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 48

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200090 - Mechanical Engineer

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

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 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.

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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 EP department conducts research in experimental particle physics in close collaboration with and supporting the wider scientific community working at CERN. This includes designing and operating experiments, developing and constructing detectors, acquiring and analysing physics data.

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.