Mechanical Engineer – Vacuum Technology (CERN)

About the role

Join CERN’s Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings Group as a Mechanical Engineer working on ultra‑high vacuum equipment for the LHC experiments (ATLAS, ALICE, CMS, LHCb). You will be involved from concept through design, prototyping, testing and installation in a unique scientific environment.

Key responsibilities

• Design and develop precision mechanical equipment for ultra‑high vacuum applications.
• Create 3D CAD models and perform structural, thermal and modal analyses to validate designs.
• Manage projects through design, prototyping, manufacturing, assembly and testing phases.
• Plan and execute laboratory tests, including leak detection, residual‑gas analysis and vacuum performance measurements.
• Coordinate with CERN workshops, suppliers and technical teams to ensure production quality.
• Support installation, commissioning and continuous improvement of vacuum equipment for the LHC experiments.

Required profile

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master’s with 2‑6 years experience or PhD with ≤3 years experience).
• Strong background in mechanical design and CAD tools.
• Experience with engineering simulation and analysis (e.g., ANSYS).
• Knowledge of precision mechanics, manufacturing, assembly or testing.
• Familiarity with vacuum technology or laboratory environments; experience with ultra‑high vacuum systems is a plus.
• Fluent in English or French and willingness to learn the other language.

Required skills

• CATIA, Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks for 3D modelling.
• ANSYS or similar software for structural, thermal and modal analysis.

What we offer

• Monthly net stipend of 6 372 CHF (Master’s) or 7 004 CHF (PhD).
• 30 days paid leave plus a two‑week annual closure.
• Comprehensive health insurance and pension fund membership.
• Family, child and infant allowances where applicable.
• Relocation package covering installation grant and travel expenses.
• Possibility to extend the contract up to 36 months.
• On‑the‑job and formal training, including language classes.