HR Legal Adviser (HR-LSM-LA-2026-159-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:

You will provide expert legal advice on international administrative law and personnel matters, supporting the development and application of CERN's internal legal framework, HR policies and procedures, while contributing to the fair and effective resolution of internal disputes and disciplinary matters.

Functions:

• Play a key role in working groups for the review of internal legislation.
• Draft internal legislation and related amendments.
• Provide legal advice to the HR Management and other stakeholders on:
  • The application of the Staff Rules and Regulations and related documents.
  • HR policy matters and procedures.
  •  Internal disputes and disciplinary proceedings.
• Handle cases on behalf of the Organization before CERN’s internal dispute resolution and advisory  boards.
• Perform legal research and analysis for the preparation of legal opinions, internal memoranda or official correspondence.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of law, international public or administrative law or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience as a legal adviser in an intergovernmental organisation, practicing international administrative law.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of International Administrative Law (law of the International Civil Service).
• Drafting and writing of official documents: (official legal documents).
• Knowledge of administrative rules and procedures: specific to International Organisations.
• Knowledge of Employment Law or Civil Service Law would be an asset.

Behavioural competencies:

• Working in Teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Communicating Effectively: demonstrating a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addressing issues of conflict constructively.
• Managing Self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.

Language skills:

• Spoken and written English and French: ability to understand and speak both languages in professional contexts as well as the ability to draft texts for publications and/ or official communications and to make oral presentations in both languages.

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 13.08.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions:

Contract type: Limited duration contract (3 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Hybrid

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: HR-LSM-LA-2026-159-LD

Field of work: Support Services (Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement)

Benchmark Job Title: Legal Adviser

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