EU Projects Financial Officer

What you'll do

You will have a unique opportunity to become an expert in applying European Commission (EC) financial rules, playing a pivotal role in your assigned projects. By managing all financial aspects, from analysing proposals and developing strategic budgets to overseeing expenses, you will not only ensure compliance with EC and CERN rules but also provide invaluable financial guidance to both internal teams and external partners.

Your responsibilities

Ensuring compliance with EU financial rules and CERN internal rules and regulations, analyze EC project proposals from their funding scheme perspective under the Horizon Europe program in order to develop appropriate budgets.
Define, manage and monitor EC project budgets and expenses and propose corrective actions if needed.
Follow up EC projects end-to-end from a financial standpoint.
Provide specialist financial advice and guidance on grant related financial matters to the members in CERN departments as well as partners outside the Organization.
Prepare financial reports on a regular basis and in accordance with imposed deadline for both, internal and external audiences such as the European Commission and external auditors.
Propose improvements to internal financial procedures.

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Your profile

Extensive experience in financial services within international environments, with a demonstrated ability to manage complex financial activities with a high degree of autonomy.
Proven experience in applying European Commission financial rules (H2020 and/or Horizon Europe), or well-established exposure to their practical implementation in project contexts.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Finance, Accounting, Treasury or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge of Funding Programmes.
Financial reporting and analysis.
Accounting control and analysis.
Process analysis, definition and improvement.
Personnel and material resources planning.
Assimilates large quantities of information, identifies key issues and formulates conclusions clearly and concisely.
Works well autonomously; takes on activities and tasks without prompting.
Expresses opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeps to the point.
Gains trust and collaboration from others.
Keeps up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbs new information.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/09/2026

Contract duration (in months): 60

Grade range: 4

Benchmark job: 5B0120 - Financial Support Officer

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum entry-salary of 7006 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. Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, 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 SR 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.