Mechanical Technical Engineer – Vacuum Equipment

What you'll do

Looking for an opportunity to apply your mechanical engineering skills to the upgrade of the world’s most powerful particle accelerator? Join CERN’s Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings (VSC) Group and contribute to the upgrade of critical beam vacuum systems that are essential for the performance and reliability of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC).

Working alongside experienced engineers, technicians and physicists, you will support the installation, testing and commissioning of key equipment that will help prepare the LHC for future scientific discoveries. No prior experience in particle accelerators is required. We will provide all the necessary training and support, making this an excellent opportunity to develop specialist skills in a unique international environment.

Your responsibilities

Perform vacuum acceptance testing of baked components intended for installation in the HL-LHC collimator upgrade.
Test and validate vacuum equipment before installation, perform residual gas analysis (RGA) ensuring it meets performance and quality requirements.
Carry out leak tests, bake-out system installation and non-evaporable-getter (NEG) activation on vacuum components and assemblies.
Assemble and prepare mechanical and vacuum systems for installation and operation.
Support the installation, testing and commissioning of equipment for the LHC upgrade programme.
Prepare technical documentation, test reports and intervention records.
Coordinate with suppliers and support the procurement and delivery of technical components.
Participate in maintenance, upgrade and repair activities on equipment installed in the LHC tunnel.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Experience with helium leak detection methods and equipment.
Experience with on-site vacuum system work, including mechanical installation and in-situ testing.
Basic experience with outgassing phenomena in vacuum systems and with quadruple mass spectrometers (RGA) for residual gas analysis in UHV environments.
Practical familiarity with techniques for achieving and maintaining UHV conditions.
Your studies focused on BSc in Technical and Applied Studies.

Your skills

Understanding of ultra-high vacuum (UHV) principles and fundamentals.
The ability to analyse data from ultra-high vacuum (UHV) gauges.
Basic knowledge on how to assemble and install UHV-compatible components and systems.
Knowledge of helium leak detector use and the ability to perform leak testing and interpret results.
The ability to prepare, update, and manage technical documentation.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language.

Ideal start date: 01/11/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Employment conditions

A valid driving licence.
Work in Radiation Areas.
Interventions in underground installations.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend of either 5266 or 5793 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree.
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. 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.
By the application deadline, you have a maximum of 2 years of professional experience since graduation in the respective field and your highest educational qualification is either a bachelor’s or master’s degree. You must have a university degree and can’t hold a 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)
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The TE department specializes in maintaining world-class expertise in accelerator technologies, supporting R&D, and managing technical facilities to advance CERN's technological capabilities.

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.