Liaison Officer for Local Community Engagement

What you'll do

You will join the International Relations Sector (IR), Education, Communications and Outreach Group (ECO) that is responsible for maintaining support for CERN’s scientific and societal missions from all its stakeholders; generating public engagement with CERN’s activities and with fundamental research; fostering community-building within the international particle physics community; and raising awareness of CERN’s societal impact. As Liaison Officer for Local Community Engagement, you will play a central role in strengthening CERN’s relationships with local communities and stakeholders, responding to civil society enquiries helping CERN to be and remain a transparent, trusted and responsive neighbour.

CERN is undertaking studies for a proposed next-generation research infrastructure that would extend over the Franco-Swiss border. Engagement and dialogue with local communities and civil society is essential in such an initiative for the future of basic research. In this context, we are seeking a proactive and skilled professional to drive local community engagement efforts, accompanying local outreach initiatives in the context of the development of the Organization’s upcoming projects.

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Your responsibilities

Develop and implement engagement activities to promote mutual understanding and long-term collaboration with local communities;
Establish and maintain contacts with civil society representatives, community leaders, identifying opportunities for dialogue, synergies and joint initiatives in France and Switzerland;
Engage actively with local communities to better understand their needs, concerns and expectations, and ensure these perspectives are taken into account in CERN's activities;
Lead public dialogue efforts and represent the Organization in engagements with those stakeholders;
Serve as the first point of contact for incoming requests from local individuals and groups; ensure timely and effective responses that reflect CERN's values and responsibilities;
Plan and coordinate events, site visits, and other initiatives that promote dialogue, inclusivity and transparency; organise regular meetings and information sessions to foster ongoing community involvement;
Contribute to the development of content for newsletters, and other communication tools;
Prepare official reports and presentations related to the area of work.

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Your profile

Demonstrated extensive experience in stakeholder and community engagement or liaison roles, ideally within large-scale scientific, engineering or infrastructure projects, managing community and multilateral relations, with a track record of success.
Solid understanding of nonprofit networks and/or substantial experience in community or nonprofit organizations.
Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with authorities and senior officials, including local, civil society groups and national representatives.
Proven capacity to contribute to complex projects and adapting frameworks to meet unique challenges.
Solid public speaking experience.
Extensive experience in media relations, including speaking to journalists, supporting interviews, and participating in or coordinating media visits.
Demonstrated experience in writing engaging, concise and accessible texts on complex scientific subjects in both CERN's official languages of French and English.
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of international relations, public relations or administration, sociology, journalism or communication, or STEM with a science communication profile or a related field.

Your skills

Stakeholder relationship management and community engagement; Strategic communications planning; Implementation of vision and strategic agility; Participatory processes and community dialogue techniques.
Strong organisational, interpersonal and multicultural skills; Strong listening skills, with the ability to actively hear and react to community concerns.
Works conscientiously and reliably; delivers on promises.
Demonstrates respect, diplomacy and tact with external partners.
Delivers presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusts style and content to the audience; responds calmly and confidently to questions.
Understands when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; includes others accordingly and shares information.
Spoken and written both English and French.

Ideal start date: 01/03/2026

Contract duration: 60 month contract

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 5A0020 - Communications/Public Relations /External Relations Professional

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Employment conditions

Shift work, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
A valid driving licence.

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum entry-salary of 9113 Swiss Francs per month (tax free), 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.
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 IR sector implements CERN’s international relations strategy, fostering global support and partnerships to advance CERN's scientific and societal missions.

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.