Mechanical Designer (EN-MME-MD-2026-132-LD)

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CERN is seeking a Mechanical Technical Engineer in the EN-MME-MD group to lead the design and validation of SRF components for the FCC, coordinating with manufacturing and materials experts and guiding a team of designers. The role requires a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering or equivalent, solid CAD experience CATIA preferred, and the ability to produce 3D models, ISO GPS compliant drawings, and detailed calculations and specifications, with a focus on design reviews. English is essential, French learning expected; onsite Geneva work with shift and radiation area duties. This is a five-year limited-duration contract with potential extension. To apply, tailor your CV and portfolio to show CAD GPS PLM and leadership, provide project examples, and submit before 14 July 2026. Emphasize fit for a diverse collaborative science setting.

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:

The Engineering Department (EN) pushes forward the limits of technology so that physicists can carry out their research. Within the EN department, the Mechanical and Materials Engineering (MME) Group provides the CERN community with specific engineering solutions combining mechanical design, fabrication, and material sciences.

Are you passionate by mechanics, and are you skilled in computer-aided design? This is an opportunity for you. You will be part of a multidisciplinary project team designing, fabricating and testing a new generation of components for the Future Circular Collider (FCC).

As a Mechanical Technical Engineer in the MME Design Office (EN-MME-MD), you will be in charge of mechanical engineering and design of new complex equipment and mechanical systems for high-energy physics projects and new accelerators and in particular for Superconducting Radio Frequency (SRF) equipment for the FCC.
Structural and thermomechanical studies, design of pressure equipment, cryogenics, ultra-high vacuum technology, sustainable design and manufacturing, safety, reliability, product lifecycle management are just a few of the keywords related to this position.

Functions:

• Technical management of design office activities in collaboration with other services within the EN-MME group and with experts and stakeholders CERN wide, in particular for accelerating cavities within the scope of the FCC project.
• Analysis of design requirements based on functional specifications or other relevant information.
• Execution of design studies of mechanical assemblies, components, tooling, equipment integration and layout.
• Creation of detailed 3D models and technical drawings (including specification, detail, manufacturing, assembly, installation, as-built and verification drawings), in consultation with CERN manufacturing and materials experts and in compliance with relevant design and drafting standards.
• Preparation of the project documentation according to the Design Office quality assurance procedures.
• Preparation of presentations, technical reports, engineering specifications and calculation notes.
• Preparation of technical specification and participation in contract negotiations.
• Follow-up, in close interaction with other teams and services, of the manufacturing, assembling and installation of mechanical components.
• Provide technical oversight and guidance to a team of designers and draftsmen to ensure quality, consistency, and compliance with requirements.
• Ensure follow-up of assigned activities using internal administrative tools, including the preparation of estimates, maintenance of job descriptions, and processing of amendments to support timely and accurate invoicing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Proven experience as a designer in a mechanical design office, performing mechanical dimensioning and using standard mechanical analysis tools (both analytical and numerical).
• Proven experience with computer-aided design.
• Experience in the production of technical drawings of mechanical components and systems, ideally according to ISO Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) standards for drawing dimensioning and tolerancing.
• Experience with the CATIA computer-aided-design software suite would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Design and construction of machines: ability to analyse and solve mechanical engineering problems using strength of materials and materials selection principles.
• Design and analysis of mechanical structures: with basic knowledge of numerical and analytical calculation methods.
• Production of 2D drawings and 3D models: in compliance with relevant standards for drawing dimensioning and tolerancing, in particular ISO Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS).
• Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment: knowledge of manufacturing methods and processes such as machining, forming, joining (e.g. welding, brazing).
• Configuration and use of information management systems: ability to effectively use Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools.

Behavioural competencies:

• Building Relationships: showing a sincere interest in the concerns and perspectives of others.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances supporting initiatives for change.
• Managing Self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.
• Working in Teams: supporting and acting in accordance with team decisions; accepting joint responsibility for team successes and shortcomings.

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 14.07.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Find out more here.

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

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• A valid driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Shift work.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: EN-MME-MD-2026-132-LD

Field of work: Mechanical Engineering

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Technical Engineer

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