Field Coordinator for the CMS High-Granularity Calorimeter (EP-CMS-EC-2026-191-LD)

Company Description

At CERN, the European Organization 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

As Field Coordinator for the CMS High-Granularity Calorimeter (HGCAL), you will play a key role in coordinating and overseeing the assembly, integration, testing and commissioning of one of the most innovative particle detectors ever conceived. Working within a multinational, multidisciplinary team, you will help coordinate the mass assembly and testing of HGCAL detector elements (“cassettes”) on the surface, their integration into the complete 250-tonne detector, and the subsequent system-level testing.

You will also contribute to the installation and commissioning of HGCAL approximately 100 metres underground within CMS, including the integration and testing of essential services such as CO? cooling, dry gas, cabling and optical fibres. This role offers the opportunity to combine strong technical coordination skills with hands-on involvement in the construction and commissioning of a large-scale, state-of-the-art particle detector.

Functions:

• Oversee the operation and maintenance of the HGCAL assembly and testing facilities at CERN, which include large ISO 7 cleanrooms and a large assembly hall. These areas are equipped with high-power electrical and cooling infrastructure that must be operated continuously and safely. You will be responsible for planning and organising the execution of all interventions in these facilities.
• Provide technical support to physicists, engineers and technicians using these facilities. This will include liaising with the HGCAL Technical Coordinators and Safety Officer, as well as with the central CMS Technical Coordination team and CERN service groups (e.g. HVAC, electrical infrastructure, etc.).
• Plan and supervise all activities related to the large-scale detector integration, including cassette insertion (Hadronic section of HGCAL - CE-H) and stacking (Electromagnetic section - CE-E), the mechanical and electrical connection between CE-E and CE-H, installation and testing of the HGCAL thermal screen (to maintain the exterior at a warm temperature while the interior is cold), and cold testing of the complete detector.
• Work with the HGCAL team to plan and execute tests of “sectors” of HGCAL on the surface, and similarly when HGCAL is installed inside CMS.
• Work with the HGCAL Engineering Team to ensure the safe transport of large and delicate HGCAL structures around the site, as well as the overall lowering of HGCAL into the experimental cavern.
• Oversee logistics for HGCAL-related items, including detector modules, cassettes, ancillary equipment and mechanical components.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Strong track record in planning and coordinating facilities for the assembly and testing of complex devices, such as particle detectors.
• Demonstrated experience in the assembly and testing of particle detectors, particularly those based on silicon sensors, would be an advantage.
• Familiarity with project planning tools such as Merlin and MS Project.
• Proven ability to work successfully and efficiently within multinational, multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists and technicians.

Technical competencies:

• Operation and maintenance of electromechanical equipment and systems.
• Operation and support of experimental facilities.
• Organisation, planning and control.
• Testing and validation of detector components.

Behavioural competencies:

• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Setting Direction: coordinating activities and focusing team on goals and objectives; monitoring progress of team towards agreed goals and taking corrective action when needed.
• Managing Self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
• Solving Problems: anticipating obstacles; assessing alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan.
• Achieving Results: objectively assessing and monitoring own work; regularly reporting on progress and advising of any changes in schedule or priorities.

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 Organization. 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 06.10.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (4 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-CMS-EC-2026-191-LD

Field of work: Applied Physics

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (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.

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!

More information about us, here: careers.cern