Company Description

At CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

Job Description

Introduction

Within the CERN Engineering department (EN), the Cooling and Ventilation (EN-CV) group is responsible for the design, the building, the operation and the maintenance of the cooling and ventilation plants for large energy physics accelerators, experiments and technical facilities. You will join the Project (PJ) section, which is in charge of coordination and management of cooling and ventilation projects for the installation of new systems, the upgrade of existing systems, and the consolidation of old systems, both for CERN accelerators and experiments.

The EN-CV Project section (EN-CV-PJ) is responsible for the entire project cycle, starting from collecting user requirements to the final commissioning of cooling and ventilation systems.

The EN-CV group pursues sustainable cooling and ventilation systems, enhancing energy saving and/or recovery.

Functions

You will take a leading role in the design and construction of Cooling and refrigeration systems within the context of PJ section projects.

• Pursue and define user requirements from the main stakeholders;
• Perform feasibility studies and detailed designs of industrial cooling and refrigeration systems including sizing and cost estimates for the proposed solutions;
• Write up technical reports and notes;
• Draw up technical specifications and all relevant documents, follow up the tendering process up to the adjudication of future contracts;
• Follow up and regularly report on the project's progress issues;
• Ensure technical coordination and supervision of contractors;
• Monitor cost and schedule up to the commissioning and formal acceptance of the systems;
• Support operation teams in the troubleshooting and process improvement of existing plants;
• Actively contribute to the development and improvement of the internal procedures, technical prescriptions and standardisation of the technical solutions.

Qualifications

Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of mechanical engineering or a related field.

Certification in project management would be an asset.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in the design, construction and test of industrial cooling and refrigeration including experience in selecting related equipment and instrumentation;
• Initial experience in the design, construction and test of HVAC installations and their related hydraulic components;
• Proven experience in contract management;
• Demonstrated experience in project management.

The following competencies would be an asset:

• Experience in the refrigeration with R744 and natural refrigerants in general.

Technical competencies:

• Project management;
• Contract management;
• Design and construction of HVAC plants and networks: including test of plant and associated equipment;
• Water cooling process design and analysis: as well as HVAC process;
• Design and construction of refrigeration and cooling water systems (cooling tower, demineralised and chilled water) and networks including test of plants and their associated equipment.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Communicating Effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: readily absorbing new techniques and working practices; proposing new or improved ways of working.
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Additional Information

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organisation. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 29.10.2025 at 23:59 CET.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Stand-by duty, shift work and work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
• Operations on electrical installations or in their vicinity (over 1000 Volt AC or 1500 Volt DC) requiring a specific authorisation.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EN-CV-PJ-2025-205-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Engineer