Mechanical Design Technician for SHiP

What you'll do

Are you a highly motivated and versatile technician dreaming to take up a challenge at the frontiers of science? Join the central project team of the newly approved Search for Hidden Particles experiment within the CERN’s Experimental Physics Department, contributing to detector component prototyping and infrastructure design.

The SHiP experiment, approved in March 2024, aims at searching for signatures of feebly interacting particles that could for instance be at the origin of neutrino mass, dark matter and associated portal interactions. SHiP will be located on the CERN SPS accelerator at a new beam dump facility. The detector will be a sophisticated instrument composed of magnets and multiple detector components, stretching over 100m in an underground experimental hall. Its operation requires complex infrastructure in terms of large-scale support structures, electrical systems, cooling systems including cryogenics.

Your responsibilities

Collaborate closely with physicists and engineers, both from CERN and from collaborating institutes;
Perform integration studies and setting up prototype tests. These activities includes the assembly set up and testing phase;
Use CATIA V5 to prepare 3D models and 2D construction drawings storing them in the PLM system;
Participating in the detector integration meetings and following up the Jira activity list, name scheme and technical documentation database of the overall project;
Define the cabling layout and signal routing schemes for the detector;
Be involved in writing technical documentations and technical specifications.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Experience with Catia V5 preferable and PLM; any other CAD software could also be valid;
Hands-on experience in mechanical systems;
Experience with cabling and machining would be additional assets;
Your studies focused on Mechanical Engineering.

Your skills

Production of 2D drawings and 3D models;
Integration of mechanical systems;
Knowledge of 2D drawings relevant standards for dimensioning and tolerances (e.g. ISO Geometrical Product Specifications, GPS);
Demonstrating flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements;
Working in teams: effective collaboration within multi-disciplinary teams;
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/03/2026

Contract duration: 24 month contract

Job flexibility: Fully On-site

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.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly stipend of 4624 Swiss Francs per month (tax free).
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.
By the application deadline, you have a maximum of 2 years of professional experience since graduation in a technical or administrative field and your highest educational qualification is a general secondary education diploma or a shorter non-university degree. You can’t hold a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD.
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)
Any document you consider relevant to your application
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)

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.