Mechanical Engineer (EP-ALI-TC-2026-127-LD)

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CERN is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support the ALICE detector upgrade for LS3 and the ALICE3 project for LS4, including installation of the new beam pipe, silicon tracker and forward calorimeter, and to supervise a multidisciplinary team on site. You will design metallic and carbon‑composite detector structures, back them with structural analyses, and ensure safety and performance under mechanical, thermal and dynamic loads while coordinating with detector experts and CERN teams. Requirements include a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent, proven CATIA CAD experience, ANSYS analysis skills, and experience leading technicians and contractors. Tailor your CV to show leadership, on-site delivery, teamwork, readiness to work in radiation areas, and willingness to learn French.

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 ALICE Technical Coordination team is expanding to address the increased mechanical-engineering workload associated with the scheduled Large Hadron Collider (LHC) Long Shutdown periods in 2026-2028 (LS3) and 2033-2034 (LS4), including detector decommissioning and installation activities, the development of the entirely new ALICE 3 detector, and the preparation of future detector infrastructure.

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will contribute to the execution of LS3 installation activities and the design and construction of the ALICE 3 detector system, working within a multidisciplinary team of engineers, technicians, and designers.

Functions:

• Participate in the ALICE detector upgrade programme for LS3, specifically the installation of the new beam pipe, silicon tracker and forward calorimeter.
• Provide mechanical engineering support and on-site supervision at the experiment site during the programmed maintenance periods.
• Provide engineering support for the ALICE3 upgrade programme for LS4: definition of the experiment layout including integration of detectors, services, and all the related infrastructure.
• Design detector standard metallic and carbon-composite structures, supported by structural analyses to assess performance under mechanical, thermal, and dynamic loads using appropriate material models and failure criteria, ensuring strength, stability, and compliance with safety requirements.
• Work closely with stakeholders, including detector experts, collaboration members, external companies and technical support teams from CERN and ALICE collaborating institutes.
• Support the ALICE Technical Coordination team in supervising designers and technicians during the daily work.

Qualifications

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

Experience:

• Experience in the design, construction, and assembly of mechanical systems.
• Proven experience in the use of CATIA for CAD design.
• Knowledge of ANSYS for structural analysis.
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary team, including supervision of technical engineers and technicians.
• Proven ability to coordinate work done by external companies and contractors.

Technical competencies:

• Design and analysis of mechanical structures.
• Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in solid mechanics.
• Knowledge and application of non-metallic composites.
• Production of 2D drawings and 3D models.
• Organisation, planning and control: , coordination of activities involving different technical fields (mechanical work, metallic structures, heavy handling etc.).

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting
• Demonstrating Flexibility: readily accepting new tasks or work/projects.
• Working in Teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.
• Demonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisions.

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 10.07.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

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.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-ALI-TC-2026-127-LD

Field of work: Mechanical Engineering

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical 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