Library and Archives Specialist (OSI-SIS-AL-2026-55-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:

You will engage in the cataloguing, curation, and quality control of CERN’s scientific outputs across repositories, ensuring compliance with metadata standards. You will also support researchers, contribute to repository evolution and innovation projects, and deliver high-quality library and information services.

Functions:

• Catalogue, curate and ensure the quality, completeness and compliance of CERN’s scientific outputs across the CERN Document Server, INSPIRE and the CERN Library Catalogue.
• Support researchers with submissions to the institutional repository, collaborate with IT on repository developments  and migration.
• Oversee issue tracking and workflow efficiency related to repository and library services.
• Contribute to innovation and service improvement projects (e.g. AI-assisted curation) and develop documentation, procedures and performance indicators.
• Train and supervise apprentices, interns and colleagues, and collaborate with external partners, on cataloguing and library practices.
• Contribute to user services, physical collection management, communication, outreach activities, and other operational needs of the Archives & Library.

Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Information Science or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated professional experience working with information management systems and institutional repositories.
• Proven hands-on experience applying cataloguing standards and metadata formats.
• Documented experience managing and curating scientific documents within international, academic, or research organiSations.
• Experience with large-scale migrations of records to new repositories and metadata schemas is beneficial.

Technical competencies:

• Library and documentation management.
• Customer service.
• Configuration and use of information management systems.
• Digitising collections.
• Archiving and records management.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: delivering prompt and efficient service taking into account customer needs.
• Communicating Effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
• Learning and Sharing Knowledge: proposing ways to improve or streamline existing procedures, processes and methodologies.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: readily accepting new tasks or work/projects.
• Working in Teams: seeking to help other team members when own work is done; supporting others.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

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 09.04.2026 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: Hybrid

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: OSI-SIS-AL-2026-55-LD

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

Benchmark Job Title: Scientific Information Support Officer

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