Laboratory Technician (HSE-ENV-PM-2026-54-LD), Geneva

At CERN, the European Organisation 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 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 Within the environmental protection group, attached to the laboratory, you will carry out sampling and physicochemical analyses to assess the quality of CERN's water discharges in compliance with the regulations of the two host countries.

Functions

Collect environmental samples and carry out physicochemical measurement campaigns in effluents and river water, from CERN sites and surrounding natural environments.

Prepare samples for physicochemical analysis.

Conduct physicochemical analyses such as ionic chromatography, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‑MS), high‑pressure liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC‑MS/MS), and photometry.

Supervise the installation, maintenance and qualification of laboratory analysis and quality control (QC) equipment.

Manage laboratory stocks and inventory.

Draft technical documents and reports, including tables of analytical results.

Ensure the accuracy and reliability of data and analytical reports to meet the needs of internal stakeholders.

Conduct on‑site investigations in case of environmental events.

Follow the trends of the physicochemical continuous monitoring of CERN’s effluents.

Qualifications Higher technical diploma or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Analytical Chemistry or a related field.

Experience

Demonstrated technical expertise in physicochemical analyses using laboratory instruments such as ICP‑MS, HPLC‑MS/MS, IC, AOX, TOC‑TN, FTIR, and photometry.

Knowledge of laboratory quality management systems.

Experience in the follow‑up and coordination of laboratory instrumentation maintenance.

Knowledge of technical norms and environmental regulations related to sampling, measurement, and analysis (asset).

Field experience, including sampling campaigns and in‑situ measurements (asset).

Knowledge of wastewater treatment and sanitation infrastructure, including operational processes and environmental constraints, or water treatment technologies (physical, chemical, and biological treatment methods) (asset).

Technical Competencies

Knowledge and application of instrumentation and measurement techniques, troubleshooting and resolving issues related to laboratory instrumentation.

Metrics and analytics, development, validation, and optimisation of analytical methods. Proficient use of MS Office and laboratory data management systems (e.g. LIMS).

Stakeholder relationship management, and the ability to coordinate exchanges with various stakeholders.

Quality management– ISO17025.

Behavioural Competencies

Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.

Solving Problems: adopting a pragmatic approach; understanding the value of adopting generic rather than“gold‑plated” technical solutions.

Learning and Sharing Knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information.

Working in Teams: contributing to a positive team atmosphere with an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues.

Language Skills Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

Diversity and Inclusion Diversity has been an integral part of CERN’s mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organisation. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

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 grade: 3–4.

Job reference: HSE‑ENV‑PM‑2026‑54‑LD.

Field of work: Health, Safety and Environment.

Benchmark job title: Material Science/Chemical Technician.

Job flexibility: Fully onsite.

Work in radiation areas.

Residence in the immediate vicinity of the Organisation’s installations.

Interventions in underground installations.

A valid driving licence.

Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Stand‑by duty, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction.

Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

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.

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