Technical Engineer for Water Treatment Systems (EN-CV-CES-2026-124-LD)
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.
Introduction
The Engineering Department (EN) pushes forward the limits of technology so that physicists can carry out their research. Within the EN department, the Cooling and Ventilation (EN-CV) group is responsible for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the cooling and ventilation plants for large energy physics accelerators, experiments and technical facilities. The EN-CV group pursues sustainable cooling and ventilation systems enhancing energy savings and recovery.
As part of the Methods, Store and Electrical Section (CES), you will oversee the operation and maintenance of water treatment systems, develop maintenance procedures, implement a computerised maintenance management (CMMS) system, manage documentation and spare parts stores, and perform electrical works.
In this role, you will contribute to the analysis, optimisation and development of water treatment systems used for cooling and ventilation installations. You will ensure system performance, reliability and compliance with environmental and safety requirements, while supporting operation and maintenance activities.
Functions
Study, design and validate the performance of new water treatment installations or upgrade existing water treatment installations.
Contribute to water treatment contract management, produce technical specifications and all documents for the tendering procedure for renewal.
Lead technical investigations and root cause analysis for complex or recurring issues affecting water treatment systems.
Plan, coordinate and oversee preventive and corrective maintenance activities using the CMMS system, defining appropriate strategies and ensuring alignment with operational needs.
Monitor system performance, follow up on activities and report on progress, schedule and costs.
Technically coordinate contractors’ activities for maintenance and installation work, ensuring compliance with contractual clauses, technical standards and safety requirements.
Ensure technical documentation is complete, structured and up to date, in line with quality standards.
The position requires a Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Environmental Engineering or a related field.
Experience
Demonstrated experience in the operation, maintenance and optimisation of water treatment systems, including demineralised water production.
Proven experience in water treatment of cooling circuits (cooling towers or closed circuits), including water chemistry aspects.
Experience in the technical coordination of external contractors and activities.
Experience in the use of CMMS tools.
Experience in low‑voltage electrical systems.
Experience in analysing and troubleshooting technical systems would be an asset.
Experience in contract management would be an asset.
Operation and maintenance of cooling water systems and networks.
Operation and maintenance of electrical circuits and networks.
Design and construction of cooling water systems.
Operation and maintenance of HVAC plants and networks.
Work Technical supervision of contractor.
Work site supervision.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.
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 06.07.2026 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:
Participation in a regular stand‑by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
Work in radiation areas.
Interventions in underground installations.
Valid driving licence.
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays as required by the needs of the Organization.
Shift work as required by the needs of the Organization.
Stand‑by duty as required by the needs of the Organization.
Exposure to asbestos.
Exposure to lead.
Exposure to risk of falling from heights during scaffolding assembly and dismantling operations.
Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.
The selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.
Job grade: 4‑5
Job reference: EN-CV-CES-2026-124-LD
Field of work: Material and Surface Science
Benchmark Job Title: Material Science/Chemical Technical Engineer
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 you, 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.
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