Experienced Industrial Electrical Technician (EN-EL-MO-2026-164-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

Within the CERN Engineering department (EN), the Electrical Engineering (EL) group is responsible for managing CERN’s electrical distribution network, ranging from 400 kV to 400/230 V, which includes its operation, maintenance, renovation, control as well as forecasting energy consumption and handling relations with suppliers. Additionally, the group oversees the cabling infrastructure, managing everything from the installation and removal of control, water-cooled, and fiber optic cables to the maintenance of their supporting structures.
You will join the Maintenance and Operation (EN-EL-MO) section, responsible for the operation and maintenance of CERN’s electrical network, the commissioning of new installations, and the execution of small-scale electrical works.

As an experienced industrial electrical technician in the EN-EL-MO section, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining part of CERN's high- and low-voltage electrical network. 

Apply your expertise to support the operation, maintenance, consolidation and development of CERN’s electrical transmission and distribution systems, the backbone of one of the world’s largest and most powerful particle colliders. Join the CERN electrical engineering team. Take part!

Functions

As responsible for maintaining and operating a portion of CERN's electrical network, you will:

• Operate the high- and low-voltage network (lockouts, switching electrical equipment on and off, network reconfiguration).
• Perform troubleshooting and repairs, document interventions, and lead or contribute to the preparation of technical reports.
• Carry out regular inspections to ensure the reliability and safety of the electrical network.
• Act as the contact person for users connected to the electrical network within the assigned area.
• Supervise preventive and corrective maintenance activities, as well as electrical works.
• Contribute to electrical projects executed by the Group: participate in project meetings, assist in the definition of technical solutions, prepare and execute tests and commissioning activities, and perform acceptance tests on high- and low-voltage installations.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance and operational activities, including work performed, issues encountered, and corrective actions taken.

Qualifications

Technical certificate or general secondary education or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Electrical Engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Good knowledge of high- and low-voltage electrical distribution systems and associated equipment.
• Proven experience in the operation and maintenance of electrical installations, including troubleshooting, fault diagnosis, repairs, and commissioning activities.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously while coordinating activities with users, contractors, and technical specialists in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Experience using a Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS) for recording maintenance and operational activities.
• Experience in reading, updating, and managing electrical drawings, technical documentation, and as-built records.

Technical competencies:

• Operation and maintenance of electrical circuits and networks.
• Construction, test and commissioning of electrical circuits and networks.
• Knowledge of Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS).

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: driving work / projects along and seeing them through to their conclusion.
• Demonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisions.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supporting initiatives for change.
• Working in Teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.

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 23.08.2026 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:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• 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.
• Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 3-4

Job reference: EN-EL-MO-2026-164-LD

Field of work: Electrical or Electronics Engineering

Benchmark Job Title: Electrical Technician

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