Field Coordinator for the CMS High-Granularity Calorimeter

What you'll do

As Field Coordinator for the CMS High-Granularity Calorimeter (HGCAL), you will play a key role in coordinating and overseeing the assembly, integration, testing and commissioning of one of the most innovative particle detectors ever conceived. Working within a multinational, multidisciplinary team, you will help coordinate the mass assembly and testing of HGCAL detector elements (“cassettes”) on the surface, their integration into the complete 250-tonne detector, and the subsequent system-level testing.

You will also contribute to the installation and commissioning of HGCAL approximately 100 metres underground within CMS, including the integration and testing of essential services such as CO? cooling, dry gas, cabling and optical fibres. This role offers the opportunity to combine strong technical coordination skills with hands-on involvement in the construction and commissioning of a large-scale, state-of-the-art particle detector.

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Your responsibilities

Oversee the operation and maintenance of the HGCAL assembly and testing facilities at CERN, which include large ISO 7 cleanrooms and a large assembly hall. These areas are equipped with high-power electrical and cooling infrastructure that must be operated continuously and safely. You will be responsible for planning and organising the execution of all interventions in these facilities.
Provide technical support to physicists, engineers and technicians using these facilities. This will include liaising with the HGCAL Technical Coordinators and Safety Officer, as well as with the central CMS Technical Coordination team and CERN service groups (e.g. HVAC, electrical infrastructure, etc.).
Plan and supervise all activities related to the large-scale detector integration, including cassette insertion (Hadronic section of HGCAL - CE-H) and stacking (Electromagnetic section - CE-E), the mechanical and electrical connection between CE-E and CE-H, installation and testing of the HGCAL thermal screen (to maintain the exterior at a warm temperature while the interior is cold), and cold testing of the complete detector.
Work with the HGCAL team to plan and execute tests of “sectors” of HGCAL on the surface, and similarly when HGCAL is installed inside CMS.
Work with the HGCAL Engineering Team to ensure the safe transport of large and delicate HGCAL structures around the site, as well as the overall lowering of HGCAL into the experimental cavern.
Oversee logistics for HGCAL-related items, including detector modules, cassettes, ancillary equipment and mechanical components.

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Your profile

Strong track record in planning and coordinating facilities for the assembly and testing of complex devices, such as particle detectors.
Demonstrated experience in the assembly and testing of particle detectors, particularly those based on silicon sensors, would be an advantage.
Familiarity with project planning tools such as Merlin and MS Project.
Proven ability to work successfully and efficiently within multinational, multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists and technicians.
Master's Degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Your skills

Operation and maintenance of electromechanical equipment and systems.
Operation and support of experimental facilities.
Organisation, planning and control.
Testing and validation of detector components.
Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Coordinates activities and focuses team on goals and objectives; monitors progress of team towards agreed goals and takes corrective action when needed.
Takes initiative beyond regular tasks and makes things happen.
Anticipates obstacles; assesses alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan.
Objectively assesses and monitors own work; regularly reports on progress and advises of any changes in schedule or priorities.
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: 200140 - Applied Physicist

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.

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 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.